How to Store Antique Inlayed Wood Furniture

Storing antique inlayed wood furniture is not much different than storing new, non-inlayed wood furniture. All wood furniture is porous, and can easily be weakened and damaged by moisture, humidity and extreme climates. However, the value of antique inlayed furniture may be much higher than other pieces of wood furniture, making it especially important to properly store your inlayed pieces so they will retain their beauty and value. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Apply a light layer of paste-wax to your furniture as directed on the manufacturer's label with a clean, lint-free cloth. While furniture oil is more common than paste-wax, paste-wax repels dust and prevents scratches better than oil, which is especially important when storing your furniture for long periods of time.

2

Remove any detachable legs from your antique inlayed wood furniture.

3




Cover furniture and furniture legs in heavy, padded blankets.

Cover furniture and furniture legs in heavy, padded blankets to prevent damage from falling objects or other furniture. Tape the padded blankets in place with painters tape to make sure it protects the furniture while you are moving it.

4




Seal the plastic with another layer of painter's tape.

Wrap the blanketed wood furniture in heavy water-resistant plastic. Seal the plastic with another layer of painter's tape.

5

Place wood furniture on a pedestal or elevated surface to get the furniture off the floor. Storing items directly on the floor may allow moisture to get into the wood, which can damage the item. Cement floors, which are particularly common in commercial storage units, are likely to get cold and moist in certain weather conditions.

6

Remove the furniture's covering every six months to dust and polish the items. This is an essential step to maintaining the furniture's long life, especially with valuable antique wood.

7

Avoid storing antique furniture in damp or cold spaces like attics and garages. Moisture and cold weather can damage your furniture, especially if exposed for long periods of time.