Natural Oil or Varnish? Caring for Wooden Furniture

The finish that protects wood also decides how you touch it. Oil or varnish?

Natural hard oil

Oil soaks into the pores and leaves no film, so the wood stays bare and matte. A scratch can be spot-repaired with a little oil.

Varnish

Varnish forms a protective film on the surface, a tighter shield against water, but is harder to repair locally.

Everyday care

Never place a hot pan directly on the wood, wipe spills at once, and avoid abrasive chemicals.