Live Edge Maintenance: How to Care for Live Edge Wood Furniture
At Colorado Wood & Metal, we believe that every live edge wood piece is more than just furniture—it’s a story captured in grain, shape, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a custom dining table, floating shelf, or statement coffee table, your live edge piece deserves to look its best for years to come. That’s why understanding live edge maintenance is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to care for live edge wood, including regular upkeep, cleaning techniques, and what to avoid, so your handcrafted piece stays beautiful for generations.
Why Live Edge Maintenance Matters
Live edge wood furniture keeps the natural shape of the tree, preserving the unique curves, bark, and personality of the wood. Because of this organic form, it often reacts more noticeably to environmental factors like humidity, sunlight, and spills. Proper care is key to maintaining both its beauty and structural integrity.
1. Daily & Weekly Cleaning for Live Edge Wood
Dust regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth—microfiber is your best friend here. This helps prevent buildup that can dull the wood over time.
For deeper cleaning, lightly dampen your cloth with water or a wood-safe cleaner. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals, ammonia-based products, or anything abrasive. These can strip away the finish and damage the wood’s surface.
👉 Pro Tip: Always wipe in the direction of the grain, and follow up with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
2. Preserving the Finish: Oil or Wax
If your live edge piece was finished with natural oils or waxes (like many of ours at Colorado Wood & Metal), it’s important to reapply those finishes periodically.
- For oil-finished pieces, consider refreshing the surface every 6–12 months using products like tung oil or mineral oil. Just apply with a soft cloth, let it soak, and wipe off any excess.
- For wax finishes, a thin layer of paste wax can help restore sheen and add protection. Buff gently with a clean cloth afterward.
This not only enhances the grain but also forms a protective barrier against moisture and wear.
3. Controlling the Environment
Live edge wood can expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. To reduce stress on the wood:
- Maintain indoor humidity between 35–55%.
- Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight or near heat sources like vents and fireplaces.
- Use coasters and placemats to prevent rings, stains, and heat damage.
One of the easiest live edge maintenance tips is a stable environment that keeps your wood from cracking, warping, or splitting—especially in Colorado’s dry climate.
4. Protecting the Bark Edge
One of the most distinctive features of live edge furniture is the exposed bark or raw edge. While stunning, it’s more vulnerable to wear.
- Avoid bumping or scratching this area, especially if it’s not sealed.
- Dust gently with a soft brush to keep debris out of crevices.
- If your bark starts to loosen, don’t attempt to glue it yourself—contact a professional (like us!) for advice or repair.
5. What to Avoid with Live Edge Maintenance
When it comes to live edge maintenance, less is more. Avoid:
- Saturating with water
- Using all-purpose or glass cleaners
- Harsh scrubbers or steel wool
- Leaving spills to sit (especially wine, coffee, or oil-based liquids)
These can lead to permanent stains, finish breakdown, or warping.
Trust Your Piece to Last
At Colorado Wood & Metal, we build each live edge piece with longevity in mind, using kiln-dried slabs and expert craftsmanship to ensure it stands the test of time. But a little care from you goes a long way.
Whether you picked up a rustic dining table, a modern shelf, or a custom commission from our workshop, regular live edge maintenance helps preserve its natural beauty and keeps your investment looking stunning year after year.
Need More Help with Live Edge Maintenance or Want to Refresh Your Finish?
Give us a call or stop by the shop—we’re always happy to offer product recommendations or even bring your piece back in for touch-ups.
Your wood, your story—let’s keep it looking its best.