With their unique and natural aesthetic, live edge tables add a touch of elegance and rustic charm to any home. Whether it’s a live edge dining table, live edge coffee table, or live edge kitchen table, these pieces are often the focal point of a room. However, maintaining their beauty requires some care. Here are the best ways to prevent scratches and stains on your custom live edge tables, ensuring they remain stunning for years to come.
Tips to Prevent Scratches and Stains on Live Edge Tables
1. Use Protective Coatings
Applying a protective finish is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your live edge tables. Various finishes, such as polyurethane, lacquer, or oil-based sealants, can create a barrier against scratches and stains. These coatings penetrate the wood, forming a hard, durable surface that resists damage. For live edge dining tables, which are prone to spills and heat exposure, a high-quality polyurethane finish is ideal due to its water-resistant properties.
2. Regular Cleaning and Dusting
Regular cleaning is crucial to maintaining the pristine condition of your live edge wood coffee table. Dust and dirt particles can cause scratches if not removed promptly. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust the table frequently. For deeper cleaning, a damp cloth with a mild soap solution can be used, but dry the table thoroughly afterward to prevent water damage. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can strip the protective finish or damage the wood.
3. Use Coasters and Placemats
Coasters and placemats are essential accessories for protecting your live edge kitchen table. They provide a barrier between the table surface and items that can cause scratches or stains, such as glasses, mugs, and plates. Choose coasters and placemats made of soft materials like cork or fabric to avoid causing any additional scratches. This simple habit can significantly extend the life of your table’s finish.
4. Employ Table Runners and Tablecloths
For added protection, especially during meals or gatherings, consider using table runners or tablecloths on your live edge dining table. These coverings shield the wood from spills, hot dishes, and potential scratches from cutlery. While some may worry about hiding the natural beauty of their live edge table, choosing a transparent or minimalistic design can still showcase the table’s unique edges and grain patterns.
5. Keep Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause significant damage to living edge wood tables, including fading, discoloration, and drying out the wood, leading to cracks and splits. Position your live edge coffee table away from windows or use curtains and blinds to protect it from intense sunlight. If your table is exposed to sunlight, consider using a UV-resistant finish to minimize damage.
6. Avoid Heavy or Sharp Objects
Be mindful of the items you place on your custom live edge tables. Heavy objects can leave dents, while sharp objects can cause deep scratches. When arranging décor or using the table for various activities, place a protective layer underneath heavy items and handle sharp objects with care. This preventive measure is particularly important for live edge kitchen tables, where cutting and chopping can occur.
7. Maintain Optimal Humidity Levels
Wood is sensitive to changes in humidity, which can cause it to expand or contract, leading to warping or cracking. To prevent such damage, maintain a consistent humidity level in your home. Using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help control the indoor climate. This is crucial for live edge tables, as they retain more natural characteristics compared to other types of wood furniture.
8. Conduct Regular Inspections
Performing regular inspections of your live edge wood coffee table allows you to catch any signs of damage early. Look for scratches, stains, or areas where the finish might be wearing thin. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from worsening and extend the life of your table. Touch-up kits and wood repair markers are handy tools for minor repairs.
Conclusion
Taking proactive steps to care for your live edge tables ensures that they remain beautiful and functional. By using protective coatings, cleaning regularly, and employing preventive measures like coasters, placemats, and tablecloths, you can keep your live edge dining table, live edge coffee table, or live edge kitchen table in pristine condition. Additionally, being mindful of environmental factors such as sunlight and humidity, and regularly inspecting your tables for damage, will help maintain their unique charm and durability for years to come.
