OAK CARE & MAINTENANCE

The beauty of natural materials lies in its peculiarities and imperfections. Variations in the wood grain and colour, knots, medullary rays and other natural characteristics are inherent. These are far from flaws, but an intricate part of its character. We believe that these imperfections contribute to the charm of our products.

Ethnicraft designs furniture that adapts well to the hydrometrical conditions of its environment, although some cracking or movement may occur. Please do not be alarmed, this is a normal response to the furniture's environment. 

If your oak furniture is varnished, it means it offers a good protection against stains, even though with this preventive and extensive treatment, spills should be removed immediately.

If your oak furniture is finished with a pigmented hardwax oil, this gives the furniture its natural colour and forms a protective coating that acts as a repellent against common substances, but is no foolproof guarantee against stains. In case of a spill, remove it immediately. 

REFRESHING THE SURFACE (Oiled Oak)

To refresh your furniture or to remove superficial stains we recommend Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner (3029). This product cleans & regenerates the elegant character of the wood and slightly reinforces the original protective coating. Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner is no guarantee against stains.

THOROUGH CARE (Oiled Oak)

The original hardwax coating may need to be renewed. We recommend using Osmo Hardwax Oil Natural (3041). In case of discoloration, stubborn stains or to remove a superficial scratch, we advise to sand the surface first. Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying the Hardwax Oil. Spread the product evenly over the surface and remove excess product to avoid spots after drying.

REGULAR CARE

For regular dusting, use a dry cloth. For cleaning or in case of a spill, use a damp cloth and natural soap. Wipe in the direction of the grain. Do not use soap containing detergent or other chemicals. Dry with a soft clean cloth to prevent spotting. 

METAL STRUCTURE

We advise the following:

  • Dust regularly using a soft dry cloth.
  • For a more thorough cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
  • Do not use steel wool, sandpaper, mineral acid, bleach, or chlorine cleaners on metal surfaces.
  • Do not drag the furniture along the floor, as it might damage the protective coating, cause rusting or leave permanent marks on the floor.
  • Always lift the furniture when moving them from place to place. 

TIPS & TRICKS

  • All Ethnicraft products are intended for indoor use only.
  • Recommended humidity in the room: between 40% and 60%.
  • Ideal room temperature: 21°C during the day, not below 14°C at night.
  • To prevent colour differences: do not place your furniture in direct sunlight, move objects placed on the furniture from time to time and open your extendable table on a regular basis.
  • Avoid exposure to extreme conditions: do not place furniture near heating sources or air-conditioned spaces.
  • To prevent staining, we recommend that any spills be removed immediately.
  • When cleaning the surface, always work in the direction of the wood grain.
  • Use place mats to prevent hot pots and pans, or cold glasses and bottles, from leaving marks on the furniture.
  • Do not drag the furniture along the floor, always lift the furniture when moving.
  • Always ensure water and solutions used to clean the floor do not come in contact with the furniture's base, as it might leave permanent marks.

If you would like a .pdf copy of the Care Instructions, please click here for Oiled Oak or here for Varnished Oak furniture.