If the furniture does not have any special instructions and has a light clear finish, follow general wood care recommendations.
Furniture is often oiled before it is packed and shipped. If the smell is strong, consider placing a bowl with baking soda, white vinegar, and activated charcoal near your furniture. This can absorb odors. [1] X Research source
Oil-based: This is a deep-penetrating stain that is permanent. Water-based: This is easier on the environment and easier to clean up. One-step stain and finish: This is a combination stain and finish.
Test the stripper in a small inconspicuous spot before applying it to the whole piece of furniture. Always wear gloves and protective glasses when using stripper. You may also want to wear old clothing when refinishing furniture. Stripper has really strong fumes, so you should never apply it indoors.
There are a variety of penetrating-oil finishes like Tung oil, Danish oil and Antique oil. These will need to be reapplied periodically (whenever the wood feels dry or looks dull).
Avoid cleaning with common household cleaners, even if they’re wood cleaners. Many household cleaners can leave behind a layer of oil that will buildup. Or, cleaners may strip your furniture over time.
The dryness level in wood will equal the dryness of its surroundings after a few months. It does not need and cannot be “replenished” with lots of oil, although that can make the surface prettier. Rapid temperature and humidity changes always risk cracking, and oil buildup into unfinished surfaces can make wood abnormally flammable.
Keep your oak furniture inside. Unless specifically designed for outside use (such as regularly cleaned and oiled deck chairs), wooden furniture should always be used inside.
The longer a spill sits, the deeper the spill can penetrate. This is why it’s important to dry a spill as soon as you notice it.
Never drag furniture by it’s legs or pull it across a room.
Avoid putting hot items such as dishes or pans directly on the wood. Instead, use trivets or heavy mats.
Furniture oil tends to darken light dings in overall hard finishes. Use the “natural” yellowish kind for a medium brown color. If you need nearly-black, try dark furniture oil. Don’t soak too much oil into a waxy-type finish since it can really stain. Some putties harden while others stay soft and removable. For penetrating fixes start with lighter tones.
