Curio Care And Maintenance

Care for your family heirloom

Though not a complex machine with moving parts, a curio cabinet nonetheless requires a modest amount of care and maintenance to help it retain its beauty through the years. A small amount of attention goes a long way when it comes to preserving your family heirlooms, and future generations will be grateful you took the time to do it.

Sunlight

You may not realize it, but light is one of the most harmful threats to wood furniture. The ultraviolet rays of direct sunlight are far and away the most damaging but even interior light sources provide enough energy and heat to break down finishes and, in the most severe instances, actually damage the structure of the wood. Combat light damage by keeping your curio cabinet out of direct sunlight by using drapes and blinds to regulate the amount of sunlight that enters the room. Be sure to switch off interior lights around the curio cabinet when they are not in use.

Heat and humidity

No matter how thoroughly wood is dried, it will still retain a certain amount of water. This moisture makes the wood susceptible to temperature changes and humidity. Keep your wood furniture away from heat sources such as fireplaces, heat registers, and vents to keep it from drying out and cracking. Using your air conditioner in summer and a humidifier in the winter should make it relatively easy to maintain the optimum level of 25-35% relative humidity and help to sustain your curio cabinet and other wood furniture. Common sense dictates that if the air in your home feels too warm or moist for your comfort, it's probably not ideal for your curio cabinet either.

Everyday care

Preserving your woodwork's natural beauty is a simple task. There are a myriad of commercial products available for dusting and polishing wood, but some of these can contain hazardous chemicals as well as a heavy price tag. Olive or boiled linseed oil mixed with vinegar works wonders as a safe, organic, and cost-effective furniture polish. Whichever cleaner you choose, it is important that you apply it with a soft, lint-free cloth such as an old t-shirt or cloth diaper. Lightly moisten the surface, as dry fabric and abrasive dust can leave behind fine scratches, and polish or dust with the grain of the wood. Use a separate soft cloth to remove excess moisture immediately after dusting.

Long term care

Occasional waxing is another effective way to protect your curio cabinet from the effects of aging. Remove the previous layer of wax with a mild (non-alkaline) soap and water solution before applying a new coat. Waxing should not be done more often than about once every eight to twelve months.

Caring for your curio cabinet investment doesn't require a great deal of time or elbow grease. Simple care and cleaning will make certain that your curio cabinet remains an heirloom in your family for generations to come.

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