Cleaning

Fingerprints, cooking residues, tobacco smoke, etc. will accumulate on the finished surface. They ​will not damage the finish, but should be removed occasionally to restore the finish to its original ​state. Wipe the finish with a damp cloth using a non-wax polish or mild soap.

Dust Removal

Dust build-up is simply airborne particles of dust collecting on the finish. If not properly removed, ​this build-up may dull or even scratch the finish. Simply wipe the finish with a cloth dampened with ​a mild detergent or polish.

Spills

Your finish is resistant to most household spills. If a spill should occur, it should be wiped up ​immediately to avoid any potential damage.

Excessive Exposure

Heat, high humidity, direct sunlight or liquids can damage both the finish and the wood. Take care ​to avoid these conditions.

Curing and Durability:

When you receive your furniture the finish is 80% cured. This is similar to cement, it is hard, protective and ​ready for use right away, however, it takes an additional 3-4 weeks for the final hardening of the surface.

Humidity:

For the first 3-4 weeks in your home avoid heat and moisture to the surface. There will be natural movement of ​wood. Example, a table top will show a small gap at certain times of the year, and then it will close back up. This ​is a natural product, it is not plastic.

Abrasion & Scratching:

Catalyzed varnish is tough, but not bulletproof. There will be scratches and dents along the way if you use your ​furniture. There are ways to avoid this. Do not slide items across furniture, make sure to lift and move. Sliding ​dishes or cups that have rough bottoms will scratch the surface. Make sure you put soft protective pads ​underneath vases and decorative items. Keep your furniture free of dust. Dust particles, while small, can be ​abrasive. Remember, this is a durable varnish, but even the toughest automobile finish will scratch with ​abrasion.

Spills & Water Rings:

Blot up spills immediately. The surface finish provides a tight web of protection that makes most spills that ​would ruin a normal lacquer finish not a problem. However, moisture for an extended period of time can cause ​slight discoloration that, with time, will in most cases disappear. Try to avoid this by blotting up any spills as ​they happen.

Extreme Heat:

Avoid placing extremely hot items on the surface, especially in the first 3-4 weeks in your home. At any time you ​should never take anything directly out of the microwave or oven and place directly on your furniture. The ​average heat out of a microwave is 211°F. Catalyzed varnish is tested to withstand temperatures up to 140°F.

Natural Darkening:

Especially so with a natural or light color. Make sure to rotate place mats and accessories to prevent uneven ​aging when exposed to natural sunlight. Remember to rotate table leaves, as well. Table leaves that are always ​stored away from sunlight will not age the same as the rest of your table.

Products to Avoid:

Please do not clean or polish your wood furniture, cabinetry or flooring with products containing silicone, wax ​or ammonia. These additives will damage varnish with repeated use. Wax buildup on varnished wood will react ​to moisture, heat and solvents causing hazing or blushing that would not typically occur on a clean surface. ​Silicone will prevent varnished wood from ever being refinished in the future. Ammonia will soften any finish, ​with repeated use, making it soft and sticky.