Whether it's a rustic farmhouse table, an elegant antique dresser, or a lovingly upcycled sideboard from Kit and Caboodle, wooden furniture never goes out of style. But to keep your wood pieces looking their best in Portugal’s unique climate; sunny, salty, and occasionally humid, you’ll want to give them a little TLC.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to care for wooden furniture so it stays beautiful, sturdy, and full of charm for years to come.
1. Understand Your Wood
Before you grab the polish, know your piece. Is it solid wood, veneered, painted, or waxed?
Each type needs slightly different care, and at Kit and Caboodle, we’re always happy to help you figure that out (especially if you picked it up from one of our shops in Almancil or Alcantarilha!).
2. Keep It Cool (and Dry)
Wood hates extremes. Avoid placing furniture directly in front of radiators or under air conditioning units. And if you live near the coast (hello, Algarve life), invest in a dehumidifier for those damper months, your wooden treasures will thank you.
3. Dust Like You Mean It
Dust might seem harmless, but it’s sneaky. Over time, it can scratch the surface of your wood.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth (microfibre is your friend) and dust gently in the direction of the grain.
And no, it’s not a weekly chore if you do it right, it’s a moment of meditation with your furniture. Trust us.
4. Say No to Harsh Chemicals
That lemony-scented supermarket spray? It’s probably not your wood’s best friend.
Use natural wood cleaners or even make your own using a mild soap and warm water. For upcycled or chalk-painted pieces, especially those refinished with Annie Sloan products (yes, we stock them at Kit and Caboodle), skip water altogether and stick to dry or barely damp cloths.
5. Polish Occasionally, Don’t Overdo It
A high-quality furniture polish or wax can restore lustre, but it’s not an everyday thing.
Once every few months is plenty. Apply with a clean cloth, buff gently, and enjoy the glow. If your piece was finished or refreshed by us, we’re happy to recommend the right product.
6. Use Mats, Pads & Coasters (They’re Not Just for Show)
Protect your surfaces from heat marks, water rings, and the dreaded red wine stains.
Invest in good coasters, felt pads, and table runners, bonus points if they match your décor. Your future self (and your furniture) will be grateful.
7. Repair, Don’t Replace
Notice a wobble or a chip? Don’t toss it, repair it. One of the joys of solid wood is that it’s built to last and can usually be fixed or refinished.
At Kit and Caboodle, we love breathing new life into furniture. Bring it in, or ask us for advice, we’re more than just a shop; we’re a team of furniture lovers with tools, ideas, and a passion for sustainability.
Why Kit and Caboodle is Your Go-To for Quality Wooden Furniture
At Kit and Caboodle, we believe that furniture should be beautiful, built to last, and have a story worth telling. Our handpicked selection of preloved and upcycled wood furniture is full of character, crafted with care, and kinder to the planet.
You’ll find one-of-a-kind items that are:
-Sustainably sourced
-Expertly restored or reimagined
-Ready to be loved again
Plus, we’re always happy to share tips, tricks, and product recommendations to help you care for your pieces.
Whether you're furnishing your Algarve home or giving a single room a new soul, you’ll find something special in-store at Almancil, Alcantarilha, or online at kandc.pt.
Finally: Wood Deserves a Little Love
Caring for wooden furniture isn’t complicated, it’s just about showing a little love to the pieces that make your space feel like home.
And with the right care, they’ll love you right back… for decades.
Explore timeless pieces at Kit and Caboodle, because your home deserves furniture with heart.