Now more than ever people are concerned about using eco-friendly cleaning supplies in their home, whether it be to scrub the bathroom floor or to maintain the beauty of their wood furniture.

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As a fine furniture maker, I understand that when you’re commissioning a piece of furniture, you are not only looking for a green-friendly process, but also want environmentally-friendly solutions for maintaining your wood furniture going forward. Here are some things to consider when it comes to choosing eco-friendly cleaning supplies for your furniture:

• While it can be tempting to buy commercial wood polishes, avoid doing this as some of the harsh chemicals used in these types of polishes can be detrimental to your wood’s finish. Instead, opt for the old tried-and-true solution of warm water and mild dish detergent to wipe the surface clean. Be sure to wipe up all moisture from the surface.
• Have a stain on your wood furniture that you think requires the help of a chemical-filled commercial cleaner to remove? Instead, grab your trusted tube of toothpaste and dab a little on the wood furniture to help remove the stain (water ring, for example). You can then polish the wood by combining 2 teaspoons of lemon oil with 1 pint of mineral oil, spraying onto the wood surface, and then wiping in clean.
• If you absolutely must use a commercial furniture polish, make a point to read the label for the list of ingredients. Avoid using any furniture polish that contains silicone as it will break down the finish in your furniture over time.

Please feel free to contact me to learn more about eco-friendly solutions for caring for your wood furniture and how my process of commissioning a piece of furniture works.