Preserving old furniture, especially when preparing it for storage, involves specific steps to protect its structure and finish.
Preserving Old Furniture: Key Steps
To preserve old furniture effectively, particularly before periods of storage, focus on protecting the materials from environmental stresses like dryness and temperature fluctuations.
Here are key steps based on best practices:
Preparing Furniture for Storage
One crucial aspect of preservation, especially when storing antique or old furniture, is proper preparation. This helps prevent common issues like cracking or splitting.
- Add Moisture: A few weeks before placing the furniture in storage, apply a coat of wax or furniture polish. This step is vital as it adds moisture back into the wood, significantly reducing the risk of cracks and splits from forming due to dry conditions.
- Protect Delicate Parts:
- Remove any glass parts from the furniture.
- Wrap removed glass components carefully in bubble wrap to prevent breakage.
- Secure and Cushion Wood:
- Remove any drawers from the furniture piece.
- Wrap drawers in towels. This provides padding and protection for the wood, especially important if the furniture will be exposed to inconvenient or fluctuating climates.
Following these steps ensures the furniture is better equipped to withstand storage conditions, helping to maintain its integrity over time.
