How should I care for wood and lacquered surfaces in table tops?
These are the points you should take into account when maintaining timber and veneered table tops: • they are resistant (but not proof against) moderate heat and limited exposure to alcohol • the only cleaning necessary is a wipe with a slightly damp cloth followed by a soft, dry duster • do not use abrasive cleaners; they will scratch the surface • table tops should be protected from hot, damp items (such as the unglazed bottoms of coffee cups); spillages, especially of alcohol, should be wiped immediately with a damp cloth and should never be left for long periods or overnight • for more stubborn marks (in the lacquer and which have not affected the timber below), rub in the direction of the wood grain with a soft cloth and small quantities of either hot water and vinegar, soap and warm water, or industrial alcohol; another polishers’ trick is to use ‘0000’ wire-wool (but nothing coarser than this) • alcohol is a solvent; it is imperative not to leave the surfaces exposed to it for l
