When you bring home handcrafted Amish furniture from Carriage House Furnishings in Lancaster, PA, you’re investing in more than just a beautiful piece—you’re investing in lasting quality and timeless craftsmanship. Made from durable hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry, Amish furniture is built to stand the test of time. But to preserve its integrity and elegance, proper care is essential.
Follow these practical tips to ensure your solid wood furniture continues to serve and inspire for generations to come.
Start with the Basics: Gentle, Consistent Cleaning
Wood is a living material, even after it’s been crafted into furniture. It reacts to its environment and responds best to thoughtful care:
- Dust weekly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive materials or sprays containing alcohol, ammonia, or silicone.
- Spot clean with a damp cloth, using mild soap when necessary. Always dry immediately to avoid moisture damage.
- Stay away from furniture wipes or all-purpose cleaners—these can strip the wood’s natural finish.
Protecting Against the Elements—Even Indoors
The environment in your home has a major impact on the longevity of solid wood furniture:
- Sunlight can gradually discolor wood, especially cherry and maple. Position furniture away from direct rays or use curtains and blinds for protection.
- Temperature swings and heat sources like radiators or fireplaces can lead to warping. Keep your pieces at a stable, moderate distance from heat-producing elements.
- Humidity matters. Use a humidifier during dry winter months and a dehumidifier during humid summers to help wood avoid cracking or swelling.
Use Smart Prevention to Minimize Wear
Preserving your furniture doesn’t require complicated steps—just thoughtful habits:
- Always use coasters, trivets, and placemats to guard against heat marks, spills, and stains.
- Lift rather than drag heavy pieces to avoid stressing the joints or scratching your floors.
- Add felt pads to the bottoms of legs and corners, especially for chairs, coffee tables, or end tables that move often.
Deal with Damage Promptly and Properly
Even the toughest hardwoods can suffer small scuffs or spills—here’s how to handle them:
- Blot spills immediately rather than wiping. Water and liquids can penetrate the finish if left too long.
- Minor scratches may be buffed out using a wood repair marker or high-quality polish. Always test in a hidden spot first.
- For larger damage or fading, consult a furniture specialist for refinishing or touch-ups. At Carriage House Furnishings, we can help point you in the right direction.
Seasonal Checks: Furniture Maintenance All Year Long
To keep your furniture looking great, take a seasonal approach to care:
- Spring/Summer: Watch out for high humidity. Keep air circulating and inspect for signs of swelling.
- Fall/Winter: Use humidifiers to counteract dry indoor air. This helps prevent splits or loosened joints in solid wood.
Preserve the Finish—Don’t Overdo It
Polishing your furniture can enhance its beauty, but too much of a good thing can cause buildup:
- Use wood polish sparingly, no more than a few times a year.
- Avoid waxy or oily products unless they are designed specifically for hardwood furniture.
- Follow the grain of the wood when applying polish, and always buff with a dry cloth to avoid streaks.
Let Your Furniture Age Gracefully
Unlike mass-produced furniture, Amish-made wood pieces gain richness over time. The natural wood grain develops more depth, and the subtle changes in tone add character. This patina is part of the story and charm of owning a handcrafted piece.
Rather than seeing age as wear, think of it as personality—your furniture grows with your home.
Your Furniture Deserves the Best
At Carriage House Furnishings, we take pride in offering Amish-made furniture that’s built to last. Whether you’ve purchased a dining set, bedroom suite, or outdoor rocker, caring for it with these simple steps ensures its legacy lives on.
Contact Carriage House Furnishings at 717-768-8712 today or visit us online for more information!
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