Cleaning Myths That Can Ruin Your Table (And What to Do Instead)
Let’s Bust Some Myths (Before They Wreck Your Table)
You love your solid wood table.
You want to take care of it.
But if you're following TikTok hacks, Pinterest trends, or generic cleaning advice you might be doing more harm than good.
At YEG Woodcraft, we’ve seen it all.
And we’re here to set the record straight.
1. MYTH: Vinegar Is a Great Natural Cleaner for Wood
TRUTH: It’s way too acidic.
Vinegar might be great on glass or tile but on finished wood?
It can strip your finish, dull the surface, and even dry out the wood over time.
What to do instead:
Use a soft cloth and mild soap diluted with warm water. That’s all you need for everyday cleaning.
2. MYTH: Wood Polish Should Be Used Weekly
TRUTH: Over-polishing can cause build-up and dull the look.
Those spray polishes might make your table shiny at first but regular use creates a sticky residue that attracts dust and ruins the natural feel of the wood.
What to do instead:
Use polish sparingly maybe every few months, and only if the finish allows. And when in doubt? Skip it.
3. MYTH: Oil Makes All Wood Look Better
TRUTH: Oil isn’t compatible with every finish.
Unless your table has a natural oil finish (not polyurethane), adding oil can actually cloud the surface and trap moisture under the finish.
What to do instead:
Always ask what finish your table has. At YEG Woodcraft, we include this in your care guide and walk you through what’s safe to use.
4. MYTH: You Can Use Disinfecting Wipes on Wood
TRUTH: Most wipes contain alcohol or bleach both are harsh on wood.
They can dry out the surface and eventually crack or peel the finish.
What to do instead:
For germ-prone surfaces, use a soft cloth with diluted soap. If you really need to sanitize, wipe dry immediately afterward.
5. MYTH: Water Rings Are Just Cosmetic
TRUTH: Water damage can go deep.
Leaving wet cups or vases directly on wood allows moisture to seep into the surface sometimes under the finish. Over time, it can warp the wood or cause permanent staining.
What to do instead:
Use coasters, trays, or placemats especially on high-traffic areas like dining or coffee tables.
So... How Should You Clean Your Table?
We keep it simple:
✅ Use a soft microfiber cloth
✅ Mix warm water with a drop of gentle dish soap
✅ Wipe along the grain
✅ Dry thoroughly with a second cloth
✅ Avoid heat, harsh chemicals, and steam
Want to go deeper? We give every YEG client a custom care guide based on their wood and finish.