Furniture wax is a traditional method for finishing tables, dating back over a century. Its popularity stems from its easy application and ability to highlight the wood's natural beauty. Applying wax to furniture helps prolong its life and appearance. Wax can be used on its own or over an oil finish to add a protective barrier and leave the wood looking natural. This article delves into the world of furniture waxes, offering reviews, comparisons, and guidance to help you choose the best product for your needs.
Wax is generally easy to apply, gives almost foolproof results and leaves the wood looking both rich and natural. Wax repels water, making it good for resisting food and drink spills. It’s also one of the easiest finishes to repair, making it a great choice for dining tables.
With a plethora of products available, knowing what to look for in a furniture wax is essential. Here are some key factors to consider:
Look for products that include carnauba wax and beeswax:
Carnauba Wax: Also known as Brazil wax, this is one of the hardest natural waxes, and therefore the most popular. Derived from the leaves of the carnauba palm found in Northeastern Brazil, carnauba-based waxes are easy to apply, dry quicker and buff to a deep shine. It has a high melting point, protects the surface from harmful UV rays and is completely insoluble in water, meaning it provides excellent waterproof protection.
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Beeswax: Beeswax is a moderately soft, sticky wax which produces one of the most natural-looking finishes. Beeswax contains high-carbon paraffin which not only feeds the wood but also seals and protects its surface; especially from moisture and sunlight. As a natural product, Beeswax is widely available and inexpensive. Beeswax is also much safer to leave lying around the house for those with young children.
Avoid solvent-based waxes if you can, as the solvent can harm the finish. If you opt for a solvent-based wax, use it outside due to the dangerous fumes. Always check the label of the wax you buy, as some paste waxes contain solvents that are highly flammable and combustible.
If you’re looking for a colored wax, check the quality of the color. Always perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area to ensure it fits your desired aesthetic without ruining the whole piece.
When looking for a suitable wax, make sure you check the application process; some are much easier to apply than others.
Furniture waxes come in various forms and colors, including clear, amber, wood tones, and white. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired aesthetic. Waxes that add color are helpful if the wood's natural finish is blotchy or lighter than desired.
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To aid in your decision-making process, let's examine some popular furniture wax products:
Daddy Van’s Beeswax Polish is an all-natural option lightly scented with lavender. It’s chemical-free and safe for skin, making it an eco-friendly option. The polish is made from all-natural ingredients without any chemicals or solvents, making it safe for homes with kids and pets. It even states that it can be used as a top coat for chalk paint or milk paint.
Application is easy with a lint-free cloth, and the lavender scent is a standout feature. This beeswax penetrates deeply into birch wood, delivering a rich, dark finish with a durable matte look. To apply, rub a small amount onto the surface in small circles, then buff with a clean, dry cotton cloth. It really does smell like Lavender! Also, this product is naturally chemical and solvent free and made from all natural ingredients.
Howard Feed-N-Wax combines beeswax with carnauba wax and conditioning oils. This combo enhances the grain’s appearance while protecting furniture, cabinets, and antiques. It works well on both finished and unfinished wood, helping to prevent dryness, fading, and cracking.
Howard Feed-N-Wax has a unique gel texture combining beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. It tends to be lumpy and requires more product than Daddy Van’s to cover the same area. It’s ideal for quick shine and works well on furniture showing scratches or water stains. While HOWARD Feed n Wax Wood & Conditioner Beeswax Polish is a great product, it may leave a greasy residue if not wiped off properly and may darken the color of some wood finishes.
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Wood Seasoning Beeswax is a versatile choice made from pure beeswax, suitable for all treated wood surfaces. It excels at removing scuff marks, grease, and dirt. The application involves spreading it evenly then wiping and polishing after it dries.
This affordable product is good for small projects or spot treatments. Its gel-like consistency is smoother than Howard Feed-N-Wax but similar in feel. Application is even and the wax absorbs well into the wood. To use, apply the wax with the sponge in thin, consistent layers following the grain.
Briwax Finishing Wax is a natural wax made with beeswax and carnauba wax. Available in a variety of clear and colored waxes, the wax can be used on bare or finished wood to give a high shine and durable finish. The wax can be used on bare or finished wood to give a high shine and durable finish.
Fiddes and Sons Supreme Wax Polish is formulated to offer excellent results on bare or sealed wood. The wax is virtually odour free, easy to apply and comes in a variety of colours from Clear to Forest Brown. The wax is virtually odour free, easy to apply
Liberon Wax Polish Paste Black Bison is a high-quality wax polish, approved by the Guild of Master Craftsman. The wax is specially formulated to give a superb, fine finish on all interior woods, either bare or over an existing finish. It’s traditionally used on antiques but also suitable for modern furniture.
Morrells Jacpol Antique Wax is a traditional antique furniture wax polish for the renovation and upkeep of wooden antique furniture. A firm favourite amongst professions, we would not recommend using this wax if you haven’t waxed a table before. The wax comes in a light, medium or dark shade.
Rust-Oleum Wax Furniture Finishing Wax is a clear, colourless wax polish that is easy to apply by brush or rag. Often used to protect the finish achieved with Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish, the wax is clear and it dries soft with a velvety sheen.
Osmo wax is a trusted brand for professional cabinet-makers. The wax is a premium, protective coloured oil/wax blend that helps maintains the natural look of the wood.
Colron Refined Finishing Wax is a blend of specially selected pure waxes, including beeswax and best carnauba wax, which gives a beautiful soft sheen finish to the wood surface. The wax will enhance the natural sheen of the wood and provide lasting beauty and protection.
Renaissance Wax is specified by museums, art galleries and conservators throughout the world. It will gently lift the grime of antiquity and murky deposits of other polishes, leaving surfaces delightful to see and touch.
Harrell’s Traditional Wax Polish is regarded by restorers as probably the best wax polish for the care and protection of antique and fine furniture. Containing beeswax, the wax is available in five colours, from clear to Georgian Mahogany.
Before starting, ensure the wood surface is clean, dry, and free from dust. A quick wipe with a damp cloth works well. After applying, buff the surface with a clean cloth to spread the wax evenly and remove excess. Let the wax settle for a few minutes before doing a final buff to achieve a smooth, subtle shine.
After testing 21 brands of wax, it was found that while the majority produce a good result, the effort required varies enormously. While you can use wax on bare wood or wood that has only a thin penetrating finish, you must apply several coats before you begin to get a modest sheen. At the other extreme, on a very high-gloss finish such as rubbed out lacquer or a French polish, wax is superfluous and can actually detract from the finish.
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