How To Clean Wood Jewelry And More

 

Wood Jewelry

Many people forget that wood can be used in a great variety of ways.  Jewelry that is made of lightweight wood is not only attractive, but easy to wear as well.  Wearing such jewelry out in public attracts attention for the loveliness of the pieces, but also can attract dirt over time.  Body oils will accumulate on them as well.  Cleaning wood jewelry should be done periodically to retain its beauty and to ensure it will last a long time. 

The best method of cleaning your jewelry pieces is to use a small amount of olive oil, water and a soft cloth.  Simply dampen the cloth and rub the jewelry gently to clean.  Since wood can dry out after being exposed to the elements in the air, its natural oils will need to be replenished from time to time.  The olive oil is a safe and effective means of replacing that natural oil.  To do so, pour a small amount of olive oil onto a clean, soft cloth.  Rub gently but thoroughly to ensure the oil penetrates the wood surface.  Once the oil has penetrated, smooth the wooden surface with yet another soft cloth, such as a chamois to restore the wood’s shine. 

If the wooden jewelry is worn infrequently, it will still benefit from a light dusting and a polishing of olive oil every few months.  Doing so will keep it looking beautiful and will ensure that it will last a long time. 

Wood accents

In many homes, cars and recreational vehicles such as campers and boats, wood accents are included for added warmth and beauty.  It may be wood trim, wooden doors, wood cabinets, wood bastions or wood accessories.  Though many of these may not be handled on a daily basis, they are still exposed to elements in the air and benefit from a good, thorough cleaning. 

Cleaning wood involves removing dust and dirt that accumulates, even when not visible.  Wooden trim is often overlooked when cleaning, but is equally as important.  A good wood cleaner or an all purpose household cleaner can be used to wipe them down.  Getting into corners can be a challenge, as can cleaning fancy scrollwork that may be incorporated into the wood pieces.  Using a child’s toothbrush with the softest bristles can help remove buildups of dirt and grime that can accumulate here. 

Because these surfaces are continually exposes to elements in the air, they should also be protected between cleanings.  A good wood polish that can nourish and replenish the moisture content of the wood surface will ensure that it will continue looking fresh and lovely. 

Wooden doors and cabinets can face special considerations, as they are handled often.  Body oils, grime from dirty hands, dust in the air and airborne oils and greases that might be found in kitchens and garages can deter from the appearance of these surfaces.  Special attention should be paid around door and cabinet handles as well as the bottom and sides of the doors, as these are the commonly grasped areas on the surface when opening them.  Vigorous rubbing may be needed to remove any built up grime in these areas, and once accomplished, the areas should be protected with a polish. 

Walls

Wood paneling on walls can present quite a challenge.  Because they are the focal point of a room, cleaning wood walls is essential to enhance the overall appearance of the room.  It can be a daunting task, as well; a lot of area to cover can require a great deal of cleaner.  The first step will be to check the condition of your wood.  If it will absorb water, it will likely develop a less than desirable appearance by cleaning it with water.  If the finish is painted, using an all purpose cleaning solution of dish detergent mixed with warm water will be adequate.  Natural finishes or stained wood surfaces should be cleaned using a product specifically designed for that type of surface; any other substance could dull or stain the finish.  Raw wood, as might be found in rustic, log cabin type homes with open beams, should be approached with great caution.  Unfinished wood tends to absorb water, along with the cleaning solution, which could have drastic results. 

Wood has endured through the centuries as a preferred substance for use as home furnishings, accents and more.  With the proper care and cleaning, wood enhancements will endure for a long time in any home, as well.