| Antiques are valuable investments that should be | | | | effect on wood surfaces, so proper placement of |
| treated with care. While amateur collectors spend a | | | | antique furniture is critical. Blinds can be used to |
| great deal of time researching particular names, pieces | | | | minimize sunlight but this is not always the most |
| and designs, learning about preventative measures is | | | | practical solution. Common sense is key; storing a |
| equally important. There are so many types of | | | | piece in the garage to prevent it from being subject to |
| antiques, a different method of care is best-suited to | | | | light will only work if the garage is kept at a proper |
| each, allowing owners to maintain as much value as | | | | temperature. It's also important to keep potential water |
| possible. | | | | damage in mind, leaving basements, garages and |
| Antique furniture looks beautiful and can sometimes be | | | | sheds in question. |
| functional, but because the items are often quite large | | | | It is best to use a soft cloth for regular dusting, as |
| in size, protecting it from damage is tricky. Almost all | | | | even feather dusters can scratch delicate finishes. To |
| antique furniture pieces are constructed of wood, | | | | clean intricate details, a small, very soft brush is ideal. |
| which is highly susceptible to moisture. Wood pieces | | | | To keep antique finishes in tip-top display condition, |
| should never be stored in damp environments as it | | | | many experts encourage the use of furniture polish. |
| may warp the wood. Likewise, overly dry conditions | | | | Beeswax polishes are ideal and should be used once |
| may result in a tightening of the wood. | | | | or twice per year, depending on usage requirements. |
| When moving antique furniture, always pad and cover | | | | Only a small amount of wax is required, applied with |
| the item. Ensure that all moving parts, such as drawers, | | | | one soft cloth and then polished with another. |
| are removed, and wear protective gloves when | | | | Silicone-based products are not recommended |
| handling each piece. Inspect each item before moving | | | | because they often create a stubborn film that holds |
| to check for loose parts. Furniture should always be | | | | dust and dirt, producing a dull effect. |
| lifted during transport, since joint may weaken over | | | | Amateur collectors often consider having antique |
| time and become quite fragile. Tables should always | | | | furniture restored but many experts strongly disagree. |
| be carried by the legs - never by the table top. | | | | Regardless of the scratches or nicks in the finish, it |
| All types of wood pieces should be kept out of direct | | | | remains an important component of each piece and is |
| sunlight to prevent any changes in colour or finish. | | | | better left intact. Antique furniture is almost always |
| Surprisingly, artificial light can also have an adverse | | | | most valuable in its original state. |