Know Your Wood and Finish First
Oiled, waxed, shellac, lacquer, polyurethane, and hardwax finishes all react differently to moisture and oils. Lightly oiled or waxed pieces prefer minimal water and gentle nourishment, while sealed polyurethane tolerates a slightly damp wipe. Share your finish type and questions below.
Know Your Wood and Finish First
Open-grain woods like oak and ash drink in cleaners more readily, while closed-grain species such as maple resist absorption. Dark finishes may show oil streaks sooner; pale woods can spot with strong acids. Test first, then comment with your findings to help other readers.
