Wood is a wonderful, natural material for creating kitchen items and gifts for both adults and children. It’s not only beautiful and elegant but also durable. However, to keep it in good condition for months or even years, proper care is essential. One effective way to protect wooden surfaces is through oiling. In this article, we’ll guide you on which products to use, what to pay attention to, and which mistakes to avoid when oiling wooden surfaces. We recommend choosing eco-friendly solutions that are safe for both your health and the environment.
Ecology – be cautious
Unfortunately, some manufacturers of natural wood care products use ingredients that aren’t as eco-friendly as they might seem. Certain products may contain solvents or other hazardous substances that release emissions into the air during application. For example, polyurethane varnishes are safe once dried, but during application, they release vapors that can irritate the eyes and skin.
Similarly, oil-based wood preservatives often contain not only plant-based drying oils but also mineral oil—a byproduct of petroleum refining. While petroleum is technically a natural resource, it is non-renewable, unlike wood. Its extraction and industrial processing consume vast amounts of energy and water, making it far less environmentally sustainable.
Protecting wood with wood oil
Oiling wood, as the name suggests, involves applying a layer of oil to a wooden surface. The oil penetrates the wood, providing effective protection while strengthening it from within. Depending on the type of wood, you may need one layer or several. Oiling can be done either cold or warm, depending on the method you prefer.
Oils not only enhance the natural beauty of wood by deepening its color but also leave a pleasant, smooth finish. Another significant benefit is the ease and speed of renovation. An oiled surface provides effective protection against water and other liquids. By filling the wood’s natural channels, the oil prevents standing water from causing damage without creating an airtight barrier.
Unlike varnishes, oils won’t crack, peel, or flake over time. This makes them an excellent option for maintaining wooden floors, which are easy to clean and require minimal effort to care for. With regular oiling, your wood will stay beautiful, durable, and well-protected for years to come.
What about oil-based wax?
A similar product to oil is hard wax, sometimes referred to as an oil-based wax finish. It is primarily made from oils and waxes, often enriched with additional resin substances. This results in a highly durable surface that is resistant to mechanical damage.
Oil-based wax works similarly to oil, but it leaves a delicate, thin layer on the wood, evening out its texture and closing the pores. However, the application process and technique are identical to those used with traditional oil.
The main advantage of an oil-based wax finish is its enhanced resistance to wear and tear, while still preserving the natural beauty of the wood. It provides a more durable finish compared to regular oil while maintaining eco-friendly, breathable qualities.
Benefits of Oiling Wood
Let’s start by saying that applying oil with a cloth or brush is quick and doesn’t require sanding between layers, unlike varnishes.
Additionally, it’s an eco-friendly solution that doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, making it safe for both health and the environment. It provides a very natural finish, highlighting the wood’s natural color and grain.
The oil penetrates deeply into the wood, protecting it from water absorption at every layer, which helps prevent the growth of mold and fungi.
Since oil doesn’t create a sealed surface, it allows moisture to evaporate and air to flow freely. This makes it ideal for wood items like cutting boards, which come into contact with moisture during meal preparation.
Drawbacks of oiling wood
Sometimes, it’s argued that a major drawback of oiling wooden surfaces is the lack of a sealed layer on the wood. A tight, sealed coating can be achieved through varnishing, but we’ll cover that in another article. When using oils or oil-waxes, the surface is also less resistant to stains and requires more frequent maintenance.
It’s also important to note that once wood is treated with oil, it can no longer be varnished. This means you can’t later switch to a different method of protecting the surface.
Despite these considerations, we firmly believe that the advantages of oiling wooden surfaces outweigh the drawbacks. It remains an excellent choice for protecting and enhancing wooden items.
Good Luck!
Remember to approach oiling wooden surfaces with the necessary care. Prepare the surface carefully, then apply the product evenly and thoroughly. Don’t rush, and plan the number of oil application cycles. This way, the wooden surface will be well-protected and, as a result, will look beautiful and elegant.