* Keep home furniture out of direct sunlight, which can cause heat damage and bleaching of the wood.

* To prevent the loss of moisture in wood, keep furniture away from heating and air-conditioning sources.

* Always use coasters under both hot and cold drinks on your living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture.

* To prevent gouging and scratching, use felt backing on lamps, ashtrays, and accessories.

* When serving hot foods, always use place mats under plates and hot pads under serving dishes on wood dining room furniture.

* To prevent moisture damage to your wood furniture, make sure plants are in drip-proof pots, and keep foliage from touching the furniture surface.

* When placing items on furniture made from wood, always set them down gently; when retrieving items, pick them up, don’t slide them.

* Don’t place rubber or synthetic materials, such as plastics, directly on wood finishes, since they might contain chemicals that could damage the finish.

* Don’t place magazines or newspapers on wood surfaces; the ink will bleed into the finish and eventually damage the wood.

* Blot spills immediately. Once the surface is dry, coat the area with an appropriate polish or oil.

* To prevent discoloration, frequently move items on wood furniture that’s exposed to the sun.

* Avoid using nail polish and remover and harsh household products near wood furniture.

* Dust furniture at least weekly with a damp, lint-free cloth.

* Always clean wood furniture before polishing.

* Always polish wood furniture after cleaning.