Furniture Care: Timber & Timber Veneer

From trend worthy contemporary to solid and timeless, timber is the most versatile material for furniture. Being derived from a living organism, timber will vary naturally in appearance from colour, to grain and other details (like marks created by insects or mineral deposits in the soil). If the timber is recycled or reclaimed, it will tell its past life with nail holes and other wear. Timber is also responsive to its environment. Heat and moisture can affect it causing movement in joints for instance and cracking. Properly looked after, timber is arguably one of the most durable and long-lasting materials.

DO

• Use tablecloths, table runners and coasters to help protect surfaces from scratching. Certain ranges have a more raw appearance to accentuate their beauty and require extra care. These include white-wash finishes.
• Treat spills quickly with a damp cloth.
• Dust once a week using a soft cloth or similar duster. Dust in the direction of the grain where possible.
• Use felt pads on the base of vases or similar items to avoid scratching. Be aware that certain materials such as rubber leg glides on electronic devices and vinyl can react with timber and mark it.
• Only use recommended care products as many supermarket polishes and waxes contain high levels of silicon and petroleum distillate which can damage the surface. Freedom recommends using the Timber Care Collection Kit by Guardsman. This kit comes with a cleanser/conditioner, a protective cream and reusable microfibre cloth.
• Periodically check and re-tighten any fasteners.

DO NOT

• Although we test our finishes for resistance to heat and stains you should always avoid placing hot or wet items directly on the surface as they can leave marks which are difficult to remove. Where joints or veneers meet, it can cause swelling or splitting.
• Avoid direct sunlight, as this will cause colour change. If the furniture is in direct sunlight, move items like vases around to avoid spotting.
• Don’t place potted plants on timber or veneers unless it is water tight or in a tray
• Avoid applying too much care product as this will build up and need to be removed with a wood-cleaning product. Avoid supermarket polishes and waxes as many contain high levels of silicon and petroleum distillate which can damage the surface. 
• Timber designed for indoor use should not be left outside. Its finish is not designed for use outdoors.

A number of our furniture ranges are unique handmade items. While great care is taken during production there can be slight variations which is part of the charm and appeal of handcrafted timber product and not a manufacturing defect.

We recommend purchasing Freedom's Timber Care Collection Kit by Guardsman to help protect and nourish your indoor timber furniture.