Caring for Your Hardwood Pieces
At Backfield Woodworking Co., every hardwood tray, serving board, coaster, and piece of furniture is carefully crafted to last. With intentional care, your item will age gracefully and develop a beautiful patina over time. Here are our best tips for wood care and maintenance:
General Care
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Wipe clean: Use a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh detergents.
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Dry thoroughly: Never leave wood sitting in water or wet for long periods — it can warp or crack.
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Gentle use: While hardwood is strong, avoid sharp impacts or dropping pieces on hard surfaces.
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Rotate use: For serving boards or trays, rotate how you use each side to promote even wear.
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Embrace patina: Over time, scratches and subtle marks become part of the character of solid hardwood. With care, they add depth and story to your piece.
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Seasonal touch-ups: In dry months, wood can contract slightly; in humid months, it may expand. Occasional oiling helps balance these changes.
What to Avoid
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Dishwasher use: Never put wood pieces in the dishwasher — the heat and water will cause damage.
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Soaking: Don’t leave items submerged in water.
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Direct sunlight or heat: Extended exposure can dry out and fade the wood.
Homeswares
Serving Boards, Coasters, Trays & Stands
Made from solid hardwood and finished with Walrus Oil and/or Osmo Hardwax Oil, our homewares are designed for water resistance—but aren't 100% water-proof.
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Avoid cutting directly on the board. Knives aren't kind to the surface and can cause lasting scratches.
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Clean gently. Rinse with water, wipe clean, and immediately dry with a soft cloth. No soap or soaking.
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Prevent water rings. Though water-repellent, these pieces still benefit from prompt drying after use.
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Refresh the finish. Apply food-safe cutting board conditioner or wax every 12–18 months to maintain vibrance and longevity.
Furniture
Dining, Console & Coffee Tables, Dressers, and Night Stands
Finished with durable yet naturally expressive oils like Odie’s Oil or Osmo Hardwax Poly Oil—built for daily use while revealing deep, natural beauty. Care steps include:
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Use a soft cloth for dusting.
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Wipe spills immediately with a damp cloth and dry. Harsh cleaners are a no-go.
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Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight or near heat sources to prevent fading or warping.
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Refresh the finish with a coat of wood wax or hardwax oil every few years to restore luster and protection.
Thank you
Thank you for welcoming Backfield Woodworking into your home. Every piece is built by hand, in a one-person shop, and knowing it’s part of your daily life truly means the world. You're also supporting reforestation efforts with us, as Backfield Woodworking Co. is a partner of One Tree Planted and plants trees with each product sold.
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-Ryan
Owner & Operator, Backfield Woodworking Co.