The durability and eco-friendly nature of reclaimed wood furniture make it a popular choice for those looking to purchase new pieces. Not only does this option boast authentic character, but also the ability to give old timbers another chance at life by reusing them in ways other than simply burning or rendering away in a landfill. 

The rustic furniture pieces made from reclaimed wood are not intended to look new; rather, they should proudly display tone variations, knots, and holes from where the nails have been hand removed, all of which give the furniture tonnes of genuine unique character and history that new timber cannot match. A reclaimed dining table will last for many years if properly cared for.

Reclaimed wood is a natural product that reacts to its surroundings, therefore it will take some time to "settle in" when you first bring it into your home. During this time, it’s a good idea to wax it on a regular basis with a lint-free cloth - about once a month, especially on frequently used surfaces. Using a lint-free cloth, wax the table along the grain to ensure it gets into all areas and leave for at least 30 minutes.  The wax will also nourish the timber and help build up the stain resistance of the wood, increasing the lifespan of the table. We also recommend using a wood varnish, however we would advise testing the varnish on the underside of the table just in case it changes the colour.

A reclaimed wood dining table is extremely forgiving, making it ideal for a busy family home, particularly if you have young children. Small scratches and dents can be easily blended with clear wax, and because a rustic table already has natural splits and nail holes, any new scratches will be indistinguishable. There are numerous waxes available, and some rustic wood dining tables may have a slight tint to the wax. If this is the case, snap a quick photo with your phone and ask your local hardware store for colour and product recommendations.

To avoid heat and water ring marks on your wood furniture, we recommend using placemats and coasters. If you are writing, you should also place something underneath the paper to avoid marking the table through the paper - if you have chosen a particularly rustic finish, this will be essential to provide a smoother writing surface. Don't get too worked up about spills! Excess water should be wiped up as soon as possible, but your stylish dining table will be fine as long as you don't leave puddles of water. We don’t recommend using wood polishes because they contain silicone which accumulates over time; instead, a dry lint-free cloth or a damp cloth with a little mild detergent on a regularly waxed table is all that is required!