How can i best cover/protect a wooden table that has been waxed?

Asked by jca (36062

) August 24th, 2010

I just acquired a new, oak table that the antique dealer apparently waxed. I believe it’s waxed because it’s shiny but when you touch it, the shine gets kind of smeary looking. How can i best protect this table from everyday wear and tear, and cats that may jump on it? I don’t want to put a table cloth on it, as most vinyl table cloths (aside from looking tacky, in my opinion) have a fuzzy backing that may stick to the wax. What’s the best cover for this wooden table?

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According to my SO’s uncle, who is a French polisher, the best care for wooden furniture is not to wax, polish, or oil them. He also recommends not covering them, at least not on a long-term basis. Wax creates a build-up, polish can discolor, and oil is greasy. Just a damp cloth for wiping it down, and a dab of cleanser, if necessary, is all that is needed according to him.

We place a table cloth out for some meals, and use place mats and trivets for hot items. My mother has protective pads that were customized for their dining room table, and I’ve been told that you can have them custom-made. This might be the best option if you have cats that you cannot prevent from jumping on the table

Wax creates a build-up, polish can discolor, and oil is greasy. Just a damp cloth for wiping it down, and a dab of cleanser, if necessary, is all that is needed according to him.

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