It may not be a complex machine with moving parts, but even a curio cabinet requires a modest amount of care and maintenance to make sure it retains its beauty through the years. Just a little bit of attention goes a long way when it comes to preserving your family heirlooms, and future generations will be grateful you took the time to do it.
Light
You may not realize it, but light is one of the principal threats to wood furniture. Direct sunlight with its ultraviolet rays is far and away the most damaging. But even interior light sources provide the necessary energy and heat to break down finishes and, in the most severe instances, damage the structure of the wood. Keep your curio cabinet out of direct sunlight and use drapes and blinds to filter or regulate the amount of sunlight that enters the room when possible. Be sure to switch off interior lights when not in use.
Temperature and Humidity
No matter how thoroughly wood is dried, it still retains a certain amount of water, which makes it susceptible to temperature changes and humidity. Using your air conditioner during heat spells will not only keep you comfortable, but it will also sustain your curio cabinet and other wood furniture. In the winter, keep your wood furniture away from heat sources such as fireplaces, heat registers, and vents. A humidifier in the winter and your air conditioner in the summer should make it relatively easy to maintain the optimum level of relative humidity, between 25 and 35 percent. Let common sense be your guide. If the air in your home feels too warm or moist for your comfort, it's probably out of the comfort zone for your curio cabinet as well.
Day to Day Care
Preserving your woodwork's natural beauty is hardly a demanding task. There are myriad products available for dusting and polishing wood, but some of these can carry hazardous chemicals in addition to a heavy price tag. To be safe, olive or boiled linseed oil mixed with vinegar works wonders as a safe, organic, and readily available polish. Whichever cleaner you choose, the important thing is that you use a soft, lint-free cloth such as an old t-shirt or cloth diaper, and follow the grain of the wood during application. Make sure to lightly moisten the surface, as dry fabric and abrasive dust can leave behind fine scratches on your furniture's surface. Immediately after dusting, use a separate soft cloth to remove excess moisture.
Long Term Care
Occasional waxing is another effective way to protect your curio cabinet from the elements. Be sure to remove the previous layer of wax with a mild (non-alkaline) soap and water solution before applying a new coat. This can be done about once every eight to twelve months.
It doesn't require a great deal of time or elbow grease to care for your investment. These simple precautions will make certain that your curio cabinet remains an heirloom in your family for generations to come.
