Additionally, polyurethane is so effective it can protect wood from absorbing water long enough for even deep cleanings, though it is still best practice to restrict heavy water usage in case of gaps in the finish. So, it's safe to clean wood furniture with water if it has a finish on it.
Instead, you can simply use a garden hose with steady pressure to wash down the furniture. This will not only do the job of washing off any dirt, residue, or suds well, but it will also prevent any unwarranted damage to the furniture. We've also added a guide including the best treatment for wooden garden furniture.
Wipe wood furniture with a barely damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and grime. (Use a cotton cloth to avoid damaging the wood). Quickly wipe it dry with another microfiber cloth. Don't let water sit on wood since it can warp the surface.
In the long term, if wood furniture is stored in a place where it might come in contact with rain, dew, groundwater, or floodwater, then the wood may rot and become unusable.
Water Damage Within 1 to 24 hours:
Within just a single hour up to a day after your home has been exposed to water, it will begin to cause damage. This is when drywall begins to bulge and break, furniture begins to swell and crack, and metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Water-damaged wood often needs to be replaced, especially if the damage is extensive or if the wood has weakened structurally. Restoration may be possible for minor damage, but it's critical to assess the extent of the damage and consult a professional for the best course of action.
CLEANING PRODUCTS FOR WOOD FURNITURE
A gentle, water-based solution such as Murphy® Oil Soap Original works well when cleaning and protecting the finish on your wood floors, furniture and cabinets. The soap doesn't need to be rinsed and doesn't leave any residue.
Additionally, while you can use water to clean wood furniture, too much moisture can warp the wood, lift the color, and even cause water stains, says Poepping.
Most experts agree that you should first try to clean your wood furniture with a mixture of dish soap and water. If this doesn't work, you can try slightly stronger cleaners, but this is usually sufficient.
Additionally, polyurethane is so effective it can protect wood from absorbing water long enough for even deep cleanings, though it is still best practice to restrict heavy water usage in case of gaps in the finish. So, it's safe to clean wood furniture with water if it has a finish on it.
Dampen a soft cleaning cloth or sponge in the soapy water. Wipe down the furniture with the cloth or sponge, scrubbing as necessary. Rinse the furniture by spraying with the garden hose.
Wood does not react well to moisture, so it's not recommended to clean it with water. If you still opt to do this, make sure to not use too much and always wipe away the excess moisture, preferably using a damp and then a dry microfiber cloth.
Guardsman Anytime Clean & Polish For Wood Furniture
Guardsman was a top performer in earlier Good Housekeeping furniture polish tests and held its rank in our recent dust-off. Made by a company dating back to 1915, Guardsman's Anytime spray both cleans and polishes wood, and it leaves a warm glow and light scent.
A sticky surface typically comes from an accumulation of dirt, cooking grease and grime. Another possibility is from the buildup of furniture polish, especially waxes or oils. Fortunately, it's usually enough to give it a good clean without having to strip and refinish the surface of your table.
Natural products like baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil are effective in maintaining wooden furniture without the harsh chemicals found in commercial cleaners.
There are several options: Exterior wood varnish: Protects against water damage and gives wood a durable finish while retaining its original colour. Apply one or two coats annually using a brush. Exterior wood stain: Enhances wood by adding colour and protecting it from the elements.
Garden furniture made of hardwood, such as robinia, oak, teak, or bamboo, can easily be cleaned with a pressure washer. Garden owners should be careful with wooden furniture made of spruce or beech, as their surface can quickly be damaged by excessive water pressure or appliances.
Depending on the size of the item, wood furniture may be difficult to restore. Saturated wood left in water for days should likely be discarded. However, if your items have been water-damaged for less than 24 hours, they can be saved.
Water damage can ruin wood flooring within 48 hours to 7 days. Several causes of water damage, like a flood, would swell and distort your wood flooring. In addition, significant biohazard contamination is possible. Take action to avoid further damage to property and family members.
The most affordable way to waterproof wood is by starting with a natural wood oil and following with a coat or two of outdoor paint. Though more budget friendly in the short term, you will need to redo this method more frequently, as it is not as long lasting as, say, a pricier, high-quality sealant.