Less is almost always more when it comes to maintaining old pieces.
The biggest threat to antique furniture isn’t age. It’s well-intentioned owners who over-clean, over-polish, and over-restore. The best care is gentle and infrequent.
Dust, don’t polish
A soft, dry cloth is the only tool you need for regular maintenance. Commercial furniture polish leaves residue that builds up over time and can damage original finishes. If you must polish, use a small amount of quality paste wax once or twice a year — not spray polish from a can.
Control the environment
Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. Rapid or extreme fluctuations cause cracking, warping, and veneer lifting. Keep antique furniture away from heating vents, direct sunlight, and exterior walls. A consistent 40–60% relative humidity is ideal.
Don’t refinish
An original finish — even a worn one — is part of the piece’s history and value. Stripping and refinishing an antique can reduce its value by 50% or more. Embrace the patina. If a piece truly needs structural repair, consult a professional conservator, not a furniture refinisher.