What to Consider When Choosing the Best Furniture Polish?

Wood has a timeless quality that will never go out of style. Regardless of the style of your home, wood furniture may blend in. Wood, on the other hand, naturally loses its brilliance and sheen if it is not properly maintained and cared for. As a result, you’ll want to use the best wood furniture polish to restore your pieces’ original luster.

Wood polish restores the furniture’s luster by first washing the surface and then applying a glossy finish. Fresh and fruity scents can be achieved with the addition of aromatherapeutic ingredients. There are numerous options when it comes to finding the best wood furniture polish. The following are seven of the best wood furniture polish products available on the market today.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Furniture Polish

When looking for the best furniture polish, keep these characteristics in mind for squeaky-clean results.

Wood Finish

The ideal furniture polish for your job will be determined primarily by the existing finish on your wood. To identify the finish, perform this test on an unnoticeable area of the furniture. It’s time to examine what happens when you apply boiling linseed oil to the wood.

• It has an oil finish if it has absorbed the oil into the wood itself.
  • Lacquer finish is achieved when the acetone dissolves within 30 seconds.
  • It’s a varnish or shellac finish if it forms a gel-like substance within a few minutes (shellac will dissolve quickly when you dab a cotton swab with denatured alcohol on it, while varnish will dissolve more slowly).
  • A polyurethane/polyester finish is one in which acetone beads up on the top of the surface.
• In order to keep the finish on your unfinished wood furniture, you should first apply one of the finishes described in this section and then apply furniture polish. Most furniture polishes, with the exception of paste wax (discussed further below), should not be used on unfinished wood.

Formulas

If you want your furniture to have a shiny sheen, you’ll need to choose between four different types of furniture polish.

• Silicone, wax, and other cleaning chemicals are all found in silicone polishes. You can use them on furniture with varnish, shellac, or polyurethane finishes to add a glossy shine since they eliminate water-soluble grime from the wood surface while creating a durable, slick coating. Because of their slickness, they are dust-resistant and easy to clean.
• Often referred to as “cream polishes,” emulsion polishes combine oil and water with cleaning chemicals to remove buildup from wood surfaces while polishing. In comparison to waxes and silicone polish, its matte (low gloss) or satin (medium gloss) sheen is less dust-resistant and harder to wipe on and less abrasion resistant than waxes. They can be used with varnish, shellac, or polyurethane finishes on wood.
• There are a variety of mineral oil-based polishes on the market, some of which may additionally be enriched with solvents like petroleum distillate. They work best with oil-finished wood because the thin film of oil they leave behind gives furniture a rich, high-gloss finish that highlights the wood grain. However, this oil film can readily attract dust, so be careful while using it. As a result, they buff away oil-based accumulation while also removing water-soluble debris.
• Another option for furniture polish is carnauba or beeswax. Creamy waxes produce a dust-prone matte or satin sheen, while paste waxes produce a high-gloss shine that is dust-repellent. The lacquered surface of the furniture benefits from the thin, durable coating that they achieve. When applied to unfinished wood, paste wax is an ideal sealer.

Application method

It is necessary to apply the following formulas to the furnishings in various ways, as they come in various forms.

• The majority of furniture polishes on the market today are aerosol polishes, which include silicone, emulsion, and oil-based choices. Just push a button on the can to spray a pressurized product right onto your furniture to shine it up, and you’re done.
• An emulsion or an oil-based liquid polish can be applied to a damp cloth, and the user can then wipe it over the surface of a piece of furniture. It’s not necessary to use a lot of buffing fluid, but oil-based polishes will require more than emulsion polishes do. Wipes that are pre-soaked in liquid polish are all that is needed to clean a surface, and spray bottles make it easy to apply the product to a surface and then wipe it clean.
• It’s common for semi-solid polishes to be sold in small tubs of wax-based substance. The user must slather the product onto a cloth and then buff it into the wood thoroughly; nevertheless, creamy waxes require less buffing than paste waxes. They are the most time-consuming to apply.

Furniture type

To help you narrow down your product options, consider what type of furniture you’re polishing:

• The majority of the furniture in our homes, from dining room chairs to coffee tables, is functional and, as a result, requires more frequent application of furniture polish, usually once a month. Aerosol or liquid polishes should be used instead of waxes to remove dirt and give these objects a matte to high-gloss finish.
• If you have a piece of antique furniture, such as wingback chairs or chests of drawers, it is recommended to use oil-based polishes or paste wax to enhance the elaborate details. Even though these solutions need more work to apply, customers will only have to polish them two or three times a year at most. However, silicone polishes should be avoided when using these things, as finger smudges will be visible.

Top 6 Best Wood Polish Compared

#1  Howard Products Wood Polish & Conditioner – Top Pick

With ingredients like beeswax and orange oil, as well as additional conditioning agents, this product is ideal for almost any wooden surface. It also has an excellent, long-lasting protective finish.

Pros

• It’s a fantastic layer of protection.
• To begin with, I’d like to begin with
• Because of the conditioner that has been applied, this product will not degrade.

Cons

• An agent that does not restore or refinish
• Dispenser isn’t for everyone’s tastes, of course.
• Larger bottles are available for purchase.

In addition to being an excellent wood polish, Howard Products Wood Polish & Conditioner is also an excellent conditioner. It is safe to use Howard Feed N Wax wood polish and conditioner on antique or modern wood furniture, including wood doors and trim, because it contains soothing ingredients like orange oil and beeswax. Additional conditioning ingredients also guard against decay and fade, leaving behind a protective layer. A clean soft cloth and a buffing cloth are all that are needed to bring out the shine in your woodwork after applying the Feed N Wax evenly.

It is not a repairing or refinishing agent, therefore it doesn’t do as well with something like an alcohol ring as it does with water marks and other minor flaws. It is also possible that the dispenser will not be liked by everyone because it is messy.

#2  Howard Products Restor-A-Finish – Honorable Mention

There are numerous wood-based color possibilities to choose from, making it an excellent refinishing agent. It is effective in eradicating small flaws such as blemishes, chips, and scratches on hardwood surfaces throughout.

Pros

• It works wonders on scars and imperfections
• Various wood-based color variations are available.
• No sanding or priming is required to utilize this product.

Cons

• This is not the best material for a floor.
• You should be aware of the presence of hazardous materials.
• After that, a luxurious conditioner would be ideal.

Restoring and refinishing furniture that has been damaged by excessive water marks, beverage rings, scratches, oxidation, food stains, fingerprints, cooking oils and other flaws can be done with Howard Products Restor-A-Finish. In addition to the large range of wood-based color options, this product is simple to use by just wiping on and wiping off. There’s nothing this polish can’t do for you, no matter what kind of wood finish you’ve got on your furniture. There are a few things to keep in mind before trying this method on a piece of wood furniture. These waxes deepen the grain while also protecting and enhancing the sheen of wooden furniture. The waxes also give the wood a darker hue.

Despite the fact that this product is excellent in restoring and refinishing, it may benefit from a conditioning agent, such as that found in our top recommendation. Wear gloves and avoid inhaling the vapors while working with this product, as it is poisonous even before it dries. This is something you should do every time you use spray paint or another chemical solution.

#3  Method Lights Daily Wood Spray – Best Eco Friendly

A completely biodegradable product that is manufactured entirely from plants that excels at simple everyday maintenance on large wooden furniture, such as kitchen tables and the like.

Pros

• The ideal tool for everyday use.
• Animosity-free
• The aroma of almonds is a pleasant one.

Cons

• Not as strong as the best options
• There is no pre-conditioner.
• Leaves no protective residue in its wake.

Cleaning products like the Method Lights Daily Wood Spray are designed to be used on a regular basis to prolong the life of your favorite wooden furniture pieces. As a wood cleaner, it’s best used using the 28-ounce spray container that it comes in. There are no animal byproducts, and the formulation is non-irritating and biodegradable. The wood cleaner also has a pleasant almond scent, which was a plus for us.

However, while this spray polish is an excellent product for daily cleaning and general maintenance, it is not a finishing agent and should not be used for heavy-duty cleaning or repairs. The lack of conditioning oils also makes it less effective at preserving wood furniture’s natural beauty over time. In any case, it’s one of the greatest wood cleaners you’ll find today. To make your electrical work easier, you’ll want the right tools. The greatest wire strippers are one of the instruments at your disposal.

#4  The Original Bee’s Wax Old World Formula Furniture Polish – Best for Multiple Surfaces

WE LIKE IT BECAUSE: Excellent polishing agent for wood, leather, marble, granite, stainless steel, glass, and a wide range of additional surfaces, among others.

Pros

• Not as strong as the best options
• There is no pre-conditioner.
• Leaves no protective residue in its wake.

Cons

• An agent that does not restore or refinish
• Dispenser isn’t for everyone’s tastes, of course.
• Larger bottles are available for purchase.

Using the Original Bee’s Wax Old World Formula Furniture Polish on a variety of surfaces, from stainless steel to glass to granite to marble and even leather is a terrific way to keep your furniture at its best. It doesn’t leave a waxy residue and is applied using a spray can, which makes it convenient. Multipacks of up to three units are also available.

Despite the fact that this is an excellent multi-surface polish, its major focus is not on wood. As a result, no conditioning oils or refinishing chemicals are included. It’s mostly intended for cleaning purposes. The toughest projects, including repairing headlights, may be handled with the correct corded drill and polishing pads.

#5  Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Polish Restorer Combo – Best for Hardwood Floors

We like it because it’s a great value because it includes a wood polish restorer as well as a floor cleanser that’s delicate enough to use around children and pets but effective enough to keep hardwood floors looking great.

Pros

• Removing blemishes
• Creates a layer of defense
• Safe for children and dogs to use.

Cons

• Although it can be used with furniture, that wasn’t the intention.
• Treating huge expanses of flooring can be tricky.
• Do not use on bare wood.

There are two 32 ounce containers of Weiman’s Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Restoration Combo in this package, one for the floor cleaner and the other for the basic wood polisher. These two products work together to preserve and clean hardwood floors, removing scratches and other blemishes with ease and leaving a protective layer behind after each use. In addition, we appreciated the formulation’s gentleness and the fact that it can be used around children and dogs without causing harm.

In theory, this product might be used to clean and polish wood furniture as well as floors, but that is not its intended use. It is also not recommended for use on unfinished wood, so be sure to examine the condition of your flooring before purchasing. There are some great disc sanders out there that can make the process of sanding floors a lot more efficient.

#6  Hastening All Natural Beeswax Furniture Polish – Best for Antiques

We like it because of its gentle formulation, which makes it excellent for use on antiques, as well as modern wood furniture and other materials, such as limestone and marble.

Pros

• In addition to wood, this product also works on other surfaces.
• The app is simple to use.
• Protective layer is left behind

Cons

• A little box (12 oz)
• There is no pre-conditioner.

All Natural Beeswax Furniture Polish is made using a 17th century recipe that includes beeswax as the principal ingredient and other natural ingredients. As a result, it is suitable for use on antiques, but it also works well on more contemporary pieces and on surfaces other than wood, such as limestone and marble. In addition, a protective film is left behind, providing an additional layer of security.

It contains turpentine, which can be hazardous if inhaled, even if the majority of the composition is composed of beeswax. Use caution. There are just 12 ounces of product in the little container. Our best workbench guide has terrific choices if you’re just getting started in woodworking and need a sturdy surface to work on.

How to Dust Wood Furniture

Maintaining a regular dusting schedule will help keep your wood furniture in top condition. Wood furniture can be scratched by airborne dust particles that build up over time in a filmy layer. The dust on your furniture might also cause allergies or asthma attacks in people who are sensitive to the irritants. As a general rule, you should vacuum your carpets and upholstery on a regular basis, as well.

To effectively clean furniture, avoid distributing dust across the surface by capturing and removing it. If you don’t want the dust to float around in the air, dampen a microfiber cloth before washing down the furniture. Using a dry terry towel, blot off any extra wetness.

Best Dusting Tools

Rather than something that picks up dust only to spit it out into the air, look for a dusting tool for wood furniture that will stick to the surface. Dust may be effectively removed off wood furniture using dry, soft towels and feather dusters.

• Using an ostrich-feather duster (about $10 at Target) is a time-honored method for dusting surfaces that are prone to harm. Feather dusters can also be used to clean silk lampshades, mirrors, picture frames, art, and fragile valuables, as well as wood furniture.
• Cloths that have been treated to remove lint and grime are available for purchase at Walmart for $6. Avoid using silicon sprays on beautiful wood furniture in favor of these.
• The lanolin in a lamb’s-wool duster attracts dust and causes it to stick to the cleaning tool. This type of duster is especially useful for cleaning carved or turned regions that cloths can’t access. Having a long handle makes them excellent for places that are difficult to access, such as high shelves, the tops of tall furniture and light fixtures.
• Clean cotton T-shirts or reusable diapers are popular options for dusters because they are lint-free and easy to wash. Another lint-free dusting tool is microfiber cloths ($20 for three, Bed Bath & Beyond). Wet them slightly to aid with dust collection.

How to Clean Wood Furniture

If your wood furniture doesn’t have a plastic coating, avoid using all-purpose cleaning sprays like those used on kitchen tables when cleaning it. As a general rule, you’ll want to avoid using water to clean wood. However, soap and water can be used to clean up sticky messes. Use a damp lint-free cloth and a moderate soap or detergent solution to clean the affected region. Wring out the fabric nearly completely before wiping the area clean with this cloth. After rinsing, pat dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

There are a number of products on the market designed to make wood surfaces more slippery. However, they don’t provide much in the way of protection. Silicone oil is a common ingredient in commercial spray and liquid furniture polishes. It’s important to keep in mind that products with a high oil content will have visible fingerprints. Make sure you know whether you’ve used wood sprays and polishes in the past or think that furniture has been polished with them before restoring.

Avoid using pure olive oil to polish wood furniture since it streaks and attracts dust. Instead, use this easy, DIY remedy to remove stains and clean up any wood debris.

1. Mix equal amounts olive oil, denatured alcohol, gum turpentine, and squeezed lemon juice to restore filthy wood furniture.
2. Then use a clean towel to remove the residue.

How to Apply Furniture Paste Wax

Wood is usually protected from deterioration during production with a layer of varnish, polyurethane, or shellac. To preserve and minimize surface scratches, wax or polish should be used. wax gives a strong finish and lasting protection, doesn’t smear, and is more durable than polishes or sprays. Use furniture-specific paste wax or liquid wax. Paste wax finishes can last up to two years, depending on how frequently they are used. Applying a thin layer of liquid wax is easier than applying a thick layer of paste wax, although it may necessitate more frequent applications.

On avoid streaks and a foggy appearance, wax must be applied to furniture appropriately. Remember to use furniture wax ($7, The Home Depot) in light layers, working into the surface with the grain, to restore luster to your wood furnishings.

1. Put a golf ball-sized spoonful of wood furniture wax in a square of 100% cotton fabric. Knead the fabric until it is soft after it has been wrapped around the wax ball.
2. Wax-saturated fabric should be rubbed into the furniture in small areas to dull it.
3. Use a delicate cotton cloth to remove any remaining wax.
4. Continue waxing and wiping the wood furniture until it is completely covered in wax. Do not stop wiping until you get rid of all remaining wax.
5. A soft cloth or lamb’s-wool pad coupled to an electric drill or power buffer can be used to polish wood furniture. With a delicate cloth, wipe away any wax that has smeared and resume buffing.
6. Apply a second coat of wax in the same manner for a rich sheen.

Use a lamb’s-wool duster to keep waxed furniture clean and shiny. When it comes to furniture polish, avoid using liquid or aerosol products because they might remove the wax and leave behind a cloudy residue.

Conclusion

In order to keep wooden surfaces in their best condition, the best wood furniture polish is required. It also serves as a sealant for your wood furniture, ensuring that it will endure longer. Polished wood is more visually appealing and enhances the elegance of your home. If you wish to restore a certain style or type of wood furniture, the optimal product will be different. The above-mentioned goods are certain to meet your expectations for both quality and performance. Once you’ve decided on the best wood furniture polish, it’s time to put it to use.