Oiled Surfaces: Easy to Maintain, Not Disposable - 5 Care Tips

Oiled surfaces are not only aesthetically pleasing and sustainable, but also surprisingly easy to care for and maintain. Discover how to easily preserve their natural beauty with our 5 care tips.

It's a common misconception that oiled surfaces require a lot of maintenance. What is often overlooked is the significant advantage: an oiled wood surface can be refreshed again and again by simply re-oiling, and fine scratches can be repaired by light sanding. This ease of maintenance makes them an unsurpassed low-maintenance surface. Thus, an oiled wood surface is not only particularly sustainable, but also an expression of appreciation for natural materials and a commitment to their preservation. In this sense, we should learn to view the care of oiled surfaces not as a burden, but as a valuable investment. Because oiled surfaces are not a disposable solution. With proper care and treatment, they can last a lifetime and retain their natural beauty. Here are 5 care tips:

  1. Regular dusting: It is important to regularly remove dust and loose dirt from the surface. Use a soft cloth for this. For light soiling, lukewarm water can help. Use a well-wrung cloth and then wipe the surface dry with a soft cotton cloth.

    Old, discarded cotton T-shirts often prove to be ideal cloths for this purpose.



  2. Heavier soiling: For heavier soiling, you can use the gentle OLI-NATURA wood soap on a water basis. Depending on the degree of soiling, the soap concentrate can be used either pure or diluted with water.

    Please avoid using aggressive, highly alkaline or solvent-based cleaning or scouring agents. These could damage the surface.


  3. Wipe up spills: If something is spilled on the oiled wooden table, you should wipe it up with a soft cloth or paper towel. Avoid leaving spilled liquids on the table for long periods so that they do not penetrate the wood.

    Naturally oiled wood surfaces are water-repellent, but not 100% waterproof, as they are always breathable.


  4. Re-oiling: Depending on how much the table is used, it is necessary to re-oil it from time to time. This helps to maintain the protection of the surface and extend the life of the table. Make sure to spread the oil evenly and wipe off excess oil after a certain absorption time.

    Re-oiling is possible without prior sanding.



  5. Avoid sharp objects: Please note that oiled wood is protected from within and does not form a surface layer. Use coasters, tablecloths or placemats to protect the table from scratches.

    With natural oiled surfaces, smaller damage and scratches can be repaired relatively easily. Depending on the depth of the damage, the area can be partially sanded with initially coarse and then fine sandpaper and then re-oiled.

    Which oil or wax is right for me?

    If you want to buy wood oil, the selection may seem huge and confusing at first. We will help you with your decision and show you which OLI-NATURA oils & waxes are best suited for you or rather for your project. Our experts will quickly and easily recommend a suitable wood oil, answer your product questions and give application tips. For all questions, we are happy to help you, by phone at 037208/84-488 or via email at faq@oli-lacke.de. (sst_23072023)


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