How to Care for Wooden Toys and Furniture — Tips to Make Them Last for Years

There’s something timeless about wooden furniture. They’re beautiful, safe, and full of character — but they also need the right care to last.

Whether it’s a Montessori-style climbing triangle, a kitchen helper, or your child’s beloved balance board, a little maintenance can go a long way in keeping your wooden furniture and toys looking new, safe, and strong — even after years of play.

We’ll show you exactly how to clean, care for, and protect your wooden pieces so they last for generations.

🧽 1. Clean Gently — But Regularly

Wood is a natural, porous material, which means it can absorb water and harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Use a damp (not wet) cloth to wipe down toys and furniture.
• Avoid harsh cleaners — instead, use mild soap and warm water if needed.
• Dry immediately with a soft towel.

💡 Tip: Never soak wooden toys in water. It can cause swelling, cracking, or splitting over time.

🐝 2. Nourish the Wood with Natural Wax or Oil

Over time, wooden surfaces can become dry, dull, or rough. A natural wood conditioner like beeswax polish or food-safe mineral oil restores moisture and protects the surface.

How to apply:

1. Use a clean, soft cloth to rub the wax or oil into the surface in circular motions.
2. Let it absorb for a few hours or overnight.
3. Buff with a dry cloth for a smooth, satin finish.

At Duck Woodworks, we recommend using organic beeswax balm, especially for high-touch areas like climbing rungs or kitchen tower platforms.

🌿 This step doesn’t just make your toys look better — it helps seal the wood against dirt and moisture.

🌬️ 3. Avoid Extreme Heat and Humidity

Wood expands and contracts depending on its environment. To keep it stable:

• Avoid storing toys next to radiators, heating vents, or direct sunlight.
• Try to keep toys in a room with consistent humidity (ideally 40–60%).
• If possible, store unused items in a breathable cotton bag or box, not plastic.

🪛 4. Check Screws and Joints Regularly

Especially for modular items like the ZigZag Tower, it’s smart to inspect screws and joints every few months. Wood naturally shifts with time, so a quick check can prevent wobbles or surprises later.

Tighten loose parts gently — never over-tighten, as it could split the wood.

🎨 5. Repair Minor Scratches with Sanding and Love

Small dents and scratches are a part of life (and childhood fun!), but they can be minimized.

• Lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit).
• Wipe clean with a dry cloth.
• Reapply a little beeswax or oil to restore color and protection.

This works wonders for well-loved items like balance boards or wooden climbing sets.

🧡 6. Celebrate the Patina of Play

Here’s the truth: Wooden toys are meant to be touched, climbed, colored on, and lived with. A few scuffs and marks are a sign of joy and experience — not a flaw.

That gentle wear and softening is called patina, and it adds character over time. So yes, care matters — but perfection is never the goal. Love is.

Why It Matters

At Duck Woodworks, we believe in creating pieces that grow with your family — not end up in landfills. That’s why we only use high-quality Baltic birch plywood, non-toxic finishes, and sustainable practices in everything we make.

With the right care, our toys and furniture are built to be passed down from child to child — and maybe even to the next generation.

🧺 Maintenance Essentials Checklist

Want to share your beautifully aged Duck Woodworks toys?
📸 Tag us on Instagram using #DuckWoodworksCare and inspire others to treat their toys with love.