Quick Tips for Furniture Care: Tabletops

“Wood has always been a very popular option due to its durability, natural beauty, and ability to blend in with a variety of design styles,” Mason explains.

Built to last, solid wood has an effortlessly classic look that adds warmth and is relatively easy to clean. And from the timeless walnut of the Frank Desk to the sustainable amber bamboo of the Cisco Dining Table, solid wood proves its versatility.

Do:

• • Dust regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to avoid buildup that can scratch the surface.
  • Use a soft cloth to wipe the surface with a solution of warm water and mild soap. Dry with a new cloth.
  • As needed, use a mixture of vinegar and olive oil to clean watermark rings and stains. Wipe with the direction of the wood grain.
  • Use placemats, coasters, and trivets to avoid stains.
  • Pay attention to the finish of the table – Is it oiled or lacquered?

Avoid:

• • Applying and/or pouring water directly on the surface.
  • Leaving a wood surface wet; dry immediately and thoroughly.
  • Having a wood table right next to a heat source (such as a fireplace or oven).

Melamine is a wood-look material while veneer is a wood type – and both are very easy to clean. With the rich look and versatility of solid wood, veneer and melamine tables are popular for a good reason, and often come in more affordable options.

Do:

• • Use a damp cloth to clean dust and minor spills or stains.
  • Use a mixture of warm water and a gentle cleanser (such as dish soap) on tougher messes.
  • Use coasters and placemats to protect the surface from heat and moisture.

Avoid:

• • Leaving a melamine or veneer surface wet; dry immediately and thoroughly.
  • Using abrasive cleaning products such as rough cloths or solutions with harsh chemicals.

“Ceramic offers great durability, cleanability, and an eye-catching design,” Mason says. He particularly likes the Tyron Keramik dining table – “It has this beautiful ceramic top that is elegant yet easy to clean. And when you unveil the self-storing extension leaves, the veining in the ceramic lines up perfectly for a magnificent finish.”

If you want something in marble look, color, or with patterning and that’s easy-care, ceramic is a great choice.

Do:

• • Use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent to clean everyday messes.
  • On an infrequent basis (around once a year), use a limestone cleaning gel to shine the ceramic surface.
  • For tougher messes, make a paste of bicarbonate sofa and water and rub it on the surface until it fully sinks in. Wipe away with a wet cloth or sponge.

Avoid:

• • Using harsh cleaning products or steam cleaners.
  • Letting stains sit for a long period of time. Messes should be cleaned up right away.

Marble is a timeless material that has natural elegance and beauty and can last for a long time when properly cared for. Its non-porous nature makes it moisture-resistant, and most marble tables have a layer of wax or polish for additional protection. It’s important to know whether the marble of your table is sealed or not, as the surface can be quite vulnerable otherwise.

Do:

• • Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust for day-to-day cleaning. Dry immediately with a soft cloth.
  • For tougher messes, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap in a spray bottle. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth and use a second cloth to dry.
  • Use coasters and placemats to protect the marble surface from heat and moisture.

Avoid:

• • Using cleaning products that are not specifically made for marble or stone tabletops.
  • Dragging items across the tabletop – pick up and place dishes and accessories.
  • Letting liquids sit on the surface for a longer period of time.

Glass, for all its visual delicacy, has its design and durability advantages – “Glass makes for a nice, modern look and an easily cleanable surface. It’s great for smaller areas to make the space appear bigger and lighten the look,” Mason explains. “I like the Romeo Condo Sized dining table because the glass leaves are easy to use and allow you to see the sculptural base underneath.”

Glass’s sleek design allows it to complement most furniture and accessories – highlighting the beauty of the items around it. Mason stresses again the importance of considering your household, “Glass can be scratched of course, so it’s not for everyone. But you’ll never have to worry about a permanent stain.”

Do:

• • Use a microfiber cloth to wipe dust and spills.
  • Spray the surface with warm water (or glass cleaner) first rather than applying a damp cloth directly.
  • Clean both the top and bottom of the glass.

Avoid:

• • Using abrasive cleansers that contain harsh chemicals or using a lot of soap or distilled water as they can leave streaks.
  • Placing items down hard and putting items on the glass that contain sharp edges.
  • Putting excessively hot or cold items on the surface.

Fenix, made from paper and thermosetting resins, is the new kid on the block but no less qualified as a tabletop material. Fenix tabletops are low-maintenance, carbon-neutral, and have a sleek, modern look; ideal for any kind of household. Skovby of Denmark offers Fenix dining tables like the Jones that are worry-free and multifunctional.

Do:

• • Use a damp cloth with warm water and/or mild detergent for day-to-day maintenance.
  • Use a melamine foam sponge for old or dry stains.
  • For superficial scratches, place a paper towel over the scratch and wet it with water. Then, use a hot iron over the towel and dry the area with a microfiber cloth. You can find a video of this process here.

Avoid:

• • Using cleansing products that contain bleach or other damaging chemicals.
  • Letting spills and cleaning products sit on the surface for a longer period of time. Rinse the tabletop immediately and dry thoroughly.
  • Using hard brushes, cloths, and sponges on the Fenix surface.