It can be difficult to deny that specific pieces of furniture bring back happy recollections, whether it’s a piece of furniture passed down through the family or something you purchased with the money you worked for. Periodically applying a fresh coat of furniture polish helps to not only protect your beloved pieces, but also preserve the memories associated with them.
It may be difficult to locate the perfect kind of wood furniture cleaner that meets your requirements and is in your price range. This comprehensive guide will help you determine which wooden polish is ideal for your requirements.
Types of Wood Furniture Polish
Wood polish can improve the longevity of wood pieces and guard them from the damage caused by everyday use. Fortunately, we offer a variety of wood polishes to accommodate all wood types, such as teak and veneer.
Wood polishes can be sorted into two separate groups in general. These are Surface Polish and Penetrating Wood Polish:
Surface Wood Polish
This product is labeled as Surface Polish, meaning it should be used to clean wood surfaces and won’t seep into the wood. It produces a strong protective coating on the wood, shielding it from dampness or any other exterior elements. Some examples of different types of products used to polish wood surfaces are wax, lacquer, varnish, shellac, and polyurethane.
Penetrating Wood Polish
This Wood Polish penetrates deep into the wood as it is oil-based. Hence, for teak wood furniture, oil-infused, deeply penetrating polish is often used and is available in different varieties.
Wood polish can be broken down into water-based and oil-based varieties. Oil-based polish takes longer to dry than water-based polish which dries off quickly. Let’s understand the various specific types of wood furniture polish further:
1. The Clear Wood Finish of Water-based Wood Polish
Water-based wood polish benefits include its ability to be applied to bare, stained, or painted wood surfaces. For light-hued wood floorings, water-based polish is the suggested option since it produces a natural-looking finish and a transparent layer. Additionally, it does not become discolored or lose its color quickly over time. This gloss is also commonly employed to give a glossy look to wooden decorations, handiwork, and so on. Generally, water-based polishes dry up fast. However, the task requires the expertise of practiced hands as it has a tendency to leave stroke marks on the surface, and the finished product can appear sloppy if not done correctly.
2. The Luxurious Satin-like Finish of Oil-based Wood Polish
The preferred choice for furniture in living rooms and commercial buildings like hotels and offices is oil-based wood polish because of its glossy and satin-like look. Additionally, these products are ideal for covering minor scratches and other small surface dents to the wood. It could take a while to dry, which could be a nuisance. In addition, the odour of the oil-based polish is strong, and its vapours may lead to discomfort in the eyes or throat. Take precautions to guard your eyes when using oil-based wooden finish, as it could cause eye damage.
3. The Resilient Barrier of Wax-based Wood Polish
This belongs in the group of wood furniture polishes derived from nature, meaning it comes from different sources such as plants, veggies, and animal materials. The same as oil-based wood polish, wax-based polish also has the advantage of penetrating deep into the wood, enhancing its long-lasting quality. It is available in both paste and liquid forms. Depending on the type of gloss, it might be necessary to mix it with oil before applying it.
4. The Mirror-like Finish of Lacquer Wood Polish
Lacquer is a glossy, solid protective layer usually put on pieces of wood or metal that gives it a reflective look. It is thought to be one of the finest varieties of wood polish. Lacquer wood polish is highly esteemed for its sleek look and luxurious texture, making it a perfect pick for decorating a sitting room. Lacquer polish quickly hardens, is simple to take off, and guards the area from corrosive materials and liquids. One of the most effective ways of using this kind of wood furniture polish is to spray it onto a piece of wood. This polish comes in assorted lustres, and it only takes one layer to make a visible difference. This makes it the ideal option for wooden flooring and furniture. Be aware that the layer of lacquer wood finish is affected by heat and may give off odors. It would not be prudent to utilize it for your furniture if you have infants or toddlers in your home.
5. The Highly Durable Quality of Melamine Wood Polish
A glossy finish can be added to wooden surfaces with melamine resin polish. This material has top-notch sturdiness and can endure heat well, plus it applies a thin layer of cover to the wooden surface so it doesn’t get marked up. Types of melamine wood polish dry in a short amount of time, only 20 minutes, and help extend the life of your furniture. Melamine is a popular finish for veneer polishing and is the go-to option for wardrobes, cabinets, and other materials made of wood.
6. The Pleasant Appearance of Varnish Wood Polish
This substance is a very sturdy form of wood finish and is available in different wood polishes and glazes. Varnish acts as a shield for the timber, and is absorbed into the wood providing it with protection from heat, water, wear, etc. A range of different wooden polish varnish can be used as a finishing layer on a varnished surface. Polished can be put on both stained and untreated wood provided the area is dry. Be certain to give the surface a thorough scrubbing prior to putting on the polish.
7. The Versatile Nature of Shellac Wood Polish
Shellac is a kind of gum extracted in ethanol to generate liquid shellac which is also used as a coating on wood. Wood polishes that are ideal for use should be employed as a way to clean off stains and to provide protective seals. A blend of wax and ethanol, there are different varieties of wood finish colors accessible. When put on, shellac wood polish gives a glossy and durable finish. Therefore, it is employed on hardened plaster or walls that have dried. Thus, it is employed to remake ambitious designs of old furniture or wooden decorative pieces due to its flexibility. This wood polish is not suitable for outdoor furniture because it does not do well with moisture.
8. The Tough Finish of Polyurethane or PU Wood Polish
The properties of wood polish make them perfect for safeguarding wooden doors and flooring, as well as things like Modular Kitchen cabinets, cupboards, and windows. It creates a strong coating that provides state-of-the-art protection against scratches, wear and tear, warping, and corrosion. The hard sealing of polyurethane polishing enhances the durability of wooden furniture pieces, making them heat and scratch proof. There are multiple kinds of wood furnishings polish that can be found in either water-based or oil-based finishes, such as satin, matt, shiny, and sheen.
The 5 Best Furniture Polishes of 2023
Best Overall Furniture Polish
Pledge Expert Care Lemon Enhancing Polish
This product is ideal for those who require an efficient polish for a range of surfaces.
This is not suitable for those who are looking for an odorless furniture polish.
You may believe that furniture polish can only be used on hardwood surfaces. Using Pledge Expert Care Orange Enhancing Polish, you can make sealed surfaces in your home sparkle and remain clean. This spray polish is the best pick as it eliminates dust and smudges but provides a glossy layer of coverage all without leaving behind any hint of wax that other polishes are known to do. We also enjoy the revitalizing and energizing scent of lemon that is left behind– yet it can also be found in orange if that is what you prefer.
This budget-friendly furniture polish, which has received great reviews, is preferred for its aptitude of making even the old, sealed surfaces that look the worst look better. This includes wooden cupboards, leather chairs, stainless steel equipment, and marble countertops. For the best outcomes, put some of the product onto a clean, bone dry microfiber rag before wiping it onto a surface.
Price at time of publish: $7
Product Details:
- Type: Spray
- Size: 9.7 ounces
- Surfaces: Wood, granite, non-floor laminate, leather, marble, plastic, stainless steel, quartz
Best Eco-Friendly Furniture Polish
ECOS Furniture Polish + Cleaner
This product is ideal for those who desire a furniture polish using natural materials that is not too heavy.
This product is not recommended for those who are looking for an intensive cleansing or a glossy finish.
You can locate some options of furniture polish with naturally derived substances instead of harsh chemical components. We would suggest the Ecos Furniture Polish + Cleaner for its effectiveness in taking off prints, spots, and soil from distinct surfaces. In addition, the product is composed of naturally derived olive oil, orange essential oils, and other environmentally friendly and decomposable components. This is the only item in our selection to be recognized with both the EPA Safer Choice designation and an A rating by the EWG.
This formula does not contain ammonia, phosphate, chlorine, glycol, or any dyes. The bottle is created out of recovered materials and all Ecos items are produced in renewable energy places that also have a zero-waste record. It is suggested by the manufacturer that the most favorable outcome is achieved by spraying this polish from a distance of 8 inches from the item being polished and then wiped off quickly using a soft and dry towel.
Price at time of publish: $12
Product Details:
- Type: Spray
- Size: 22 ounces
- Surfaces: Wood, Formica, particle board, vinyl
Best Oil Furniture Polish
Old English Wood Conditioner & Cleaner
This furniture polish is intended for those who would rather use an oil-based product instead of a spray or wax.
This product is not suitable for those who wish to avoid the potential mess created by using an oil polish.
We suggest using Old English Wood Conditioner & Cleaner due to it being the strongest and most hydrating polish, specifically for wood, out of the numerous furniture oils available. This oil polish nourishes, cleans, and gives a sparkling glimmer to oiled light and dark wood, including cupboards, tables, chairs, and even chopping blocks or cutting boards. This formula has lemon oil included in it, which shields wood surfaces from any spots that may appear, as well as mineral oil, which helps bring new life to the wood and nourishes it.
Rather than following the instructions to put the oil directly onto the surface, another option is to dampen a clean, dry microfiber cloth with the oil and then use it to wipe the surface. This item is also available in a spray form for those who would rather use it in this way.
Price at time of publish: $4
Product Details:
- Type: Liquid
- Size: 16 ounces
- Surfaces: Most types of sealed light or dark wood
Best Furniture Polish for Wood
Howard Feed-N-Wax Wood Polish & Conditioner
This is appropriate for anyone who wishes to give completed or unfinished wood a glossy look.
This product is not suitable for individuals who require furniture polish for materials other than wood.
Revealing the inherent radiance and loveliness of your wooden surfaces can completely alter their outward appearance, which is what makes the certified specialist-endorsed Howard Feed-n-Wax Wood Polish & Conditioner so beloved. This gooey mixture has Brazilian Carnauba wax and beeswax which can be used to polish wood, make a protective barrier, and give furniture a soft shine. The oils present in the mix also nourish both finished and unfinished wood to prevent it from drying out and fading away.
The company suggests utilizing this varnish to complete the job after utilizing the Howard Restor-A-Shine Polishing Compound to get the best end result.
Price at time of publish: $15
Product Details:
- Type: Liquid
- Size: 16 ounces
- Surfaces: Finished and unfinished wood
Best Furniture Polish for Leather
Leather Honey Leather Conditioner
This product is ideal for anyone wanting to keep their leather furniture or any other leather products in top shape.
This product is not suitable for those looking for a cheaper polish.
It can require some effort to properly take care of leather furniture, yet only a small amount of effort and a suitable product is all that’s needed to keep your furniture in perfect condition over the long run. We prefer to use Leather Honey Leather Conditioner when it comes to caring for our leather furnishings. This product is also suitable for other leather materials like shoes and car seats. This fluid polish revives, preserving with its waterproof composition, and brings new life to the most worn and parched leather while adding moisture without a tacky feel.
It is suggested to get a dry cloth lacking lint and put a quarter sized drop on it. Then, use that cloth to thoroughly spread the liquid over the leather material for a small coating. If you want to go along with the polish, use Leather Honey Leather Cleaner to remove any stains.
Price at time of publish: $28
Product Details:
- Type: Liquid
- Size: 8 ounces
- Surfaces: Leather
