Furniture Care

Moving antique furniture requires extra care to protect its delicate structure and historical value. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, we recommend taking several precautions to ensure your antique pieces remain intact during transport.

Jake’s Moving & Storage Services are your best option for a safe and efficient move! Just call us before you move, and save time, money and most of all; regrets! Far to many times customers have called us after they have moved or are in the middle of moving and have already damaged something! Prevention is worth a ton of cure!

But if you are a do it yourselfer, & don’t mind a few regrets, here’s our advise…

Begin by inspecting each item for loose joints, cracks, or fragile areas. Reinforce any weak spots if necessary to prevent further damage.

Begin by wrapping each piece of furniture in thick, padded moving blankets. This layer of protection helps prevent scratches, dents, and other damage. Secure the padding with rubber bands or stretch wrap, but never place adhesive tape directly on wood surfaces, as it can leave residue and damage the finish.

For larger items like dining tables and beds, carefully disassemble any removable parts to reduce stress on joints and legs. Store screws, bolts, and small components in labeled bags to make reassembly easier. Keep these bags attached to the corresponding furniture piece or in a safe location to avoid losing hardware.

When loading a moving truck, place heavier furniture on the bottom and lighter pieces on top. Secure all items with straps to prevent shifting during transit. For fragile components like glass or mirrors, use foam padding or corrugated cardboard for extra protection. Always lift furniture or use Super Sliders to drag it, as dragging can damage both the furniture and the floor.

Enlist professional help for heavy or awkward items to prevent injury and protect the furniture.

When loading antique furniture, lift rather than drag pieces to prevent stress on joints and legs. Be mindful of temperature changes during the move, exposing antique furniture to extreme heat or cold can cause warping or cracking. By taking these steps carefully, you may be able to move your antique furniture safely and preserve its timeless beauty.

Handcrafted furniture is a reflection of skilled artistry and traditional craftsmanship, requiring specialized care to preserve its unique beauty and structural integrity. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, each piece is thoughtfully designed and meticulously crafted from solid hardwood, making it an investment meant to last for generations. However, the natural characteristics of wood and handcrafted construction demand careful attention to ensure longevity.

Regular dusting with our dampened UltimateCloth prevents dust buildup, which can scratch the surface over time. For dirtier furniture, use a wetter UltimateCloth followed by immediate drying with a drier UltimateCloth.

Maintaining consistent indoor humidity levels between 50% and 60% prevents warping, cracking, and joint gaps. Use a cool air moisturizer during dry months and a dehumidifier in humid seasons. Avoid placing furniture near heating vents or in direct sunlight to protect it from heat and UV damage. With thoughtful care and maintenance, your handcrafted furniture from Jake’s Amish Furniture will remain a cherished part of your home for generations.

Moving furniture can be a daunting task, but with the right precautions, your pieces can arrive safely at their new home. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, we understand the craftsmanship and value of Amish made furniture, and we want to help you protect your investment during a move. Proper care and handling are key to preventing damage during transportation.

Jake’s Moving & Storage Services are your best option for a safe and efficient move! Just call us before you move, and save time, money and most of all; regrets! Far too many times customers have called us after they have moved or are in the middle of moving and have already damaged something! Prevention is worth a ton of cure!

But if you are a do it yourselfer, & don’t mind a few regrets, here’s our advice…Begin by wrapping each piece of furniture in thick, padded moving blankets. This layer of protection
helps prevent scratches, dents, and other damage. Secure the padding with rubber bands or stretch wrap, but never place adhesive tape directly on wood surfaces, as it can leave residue and damage the finish.

For larger items like dining tables and beds, carefully disassemble any removable parts to reduce stress on joints and legs. Store screws, bolts, and small components in labeled bags to make reassembly easier. Keep these bags attached to the corresponding furniture piece or in a safe location to avoid losing hardware.

When loading a moving truck, place heavier furniture on the bottom and lighter pieces on top. Secure all items with straps to prevent shifting during transit. For fragile components like glass or mirrors, use foam padding or corrugated cardboard for extra protection. Always lift furniture or use Super Sliders to drag it, as dragging can damage both the furniture and the floor.

Enlist professional help for heavy or awkward items to prevent injury and protect the furniture.

By taking these steps carefully, you may be able to preserve your furnishings from Jake’s Amish Furniture and arrive safely in excellent condition for many years.

Proper care and storage of table leaves are essential for maintaining their perfect fit and functionality. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, we understand that dining tables are often the centerpiece of family gatherings, making it important for table leaves to fit seamlessly and securely. Ensuring that your table leaves are properly stored, prepared, and maintained will help preserve their condition and ensure a perfect fit for years to come.

To prevent warping or shrinkage, it’s crucial to store table leaves flat in the same climate-controlled environment as the dining table. This consistency in humidity and temperature prevents the wood from expanding or contracting, which can lead to misalignment when the leaves are inserted. Avoid placing table leaves in basements, attics, or garages where extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture can cause significant damage. To accommodate these requirements Jake offers table leaf storage inside most of our Amish Crafted dining tables.

However if you chose a model without self storing leaves, and storage space is limited, consider ordering one of our a custom-built table leaf storage cabinets to safely and efficiently store your table leaves.

Or if you only have a few leaves to store, you may want to invest in a heavy duty storage bags or padded cases designed specifically for table leaves by Hilda at Hall of Fame Table Pad Company. These protective covers provide an additional barrier against dust, moisture, and accidental damage. Keeping the leaves in a horizontal position prevents bending or warping over time.

Before inserting the table leaves, allow them to acclimate to the room’s environment for some time. This step can prevent fit issues that can arise from sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Gently wipe the leaves with our UltimateCloth to remove dust and ensure a clean surface before installation. Most Amish table leaves are numbered in the order in which they were crafted to fit best when installing, carefully place the leaves in their numerical order.

If your table has expansion slides, clean and lubricate them periodically to ensure smooth operation. For wooden slides, a light application of furniture wax can prevent sticking and ease movement.

By following these best practices for storage, preparation, and maintenance, you can protect your Amish crafted dining table and its leaves from damage and ensure they remain functional and beautiful for generations of family gatherings and celebrations.

Modern furniture often features metal and glass elements that complement wood for a sleek and stylish design. Jake’s Amish Furniture recommends regular maintenance to keep these materials in excellent condition. For metal surfaces, use our UltimateCloth to clean and immediately dry to prevent rust or water spots. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the metal.

For glass components, use our UltimateCloth to remove smudges, fingerprints and a streak free glass cleaning experience like no other!

Protect metal and glass surfaces by using coasters, placemats, or protective pads to prevent scratches and chips. Regular cleaning and careful handling will keep your furniture’s modern accents looking pristine and sophisticated.

Wood tables naturally expand and contract with changes in humidity, which can lead to gaps, warping, or cracking. To prevent these issues, Jake’s Amish Furniture recommends maintaining a consistent indoor humidity level between 50% and 60%. Sudden fluctuations in humidity can cause stress on the wood, leading to long-term damage.

Use a cool air moisturizer during dry months and a dehumidifier or air conditioner during humid seasons to balance moisture levels. Avoid placing wood tables near heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, and heating vents, as well as direct sunlight, which can cause the wood to dry out unevenly. Table mats and coasters should be used to protect surfaces from heat and moisture.

Promptly wipe up spills and avoid leaving damp or hot items directly on the wood. With proper environmental control and care, your Amish Crafted wood table will maintain its strength and beauty for many years.

Over time, wood furniture can lose its natural shine due to everyday use and exposure to environmental elements. Restoring the luster of your furniture is simple with the right care. Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly with our UltimateCloth dampened with water to remove dust.

If the finish still appears dull, apply Old English Furniture Polish using a soft, clean cloth. Rub gently in the direction of the wood grain to evenly distribute the polish. Avoid using excessive polish, as buildup can lead to a sticky residue that attracts dust.

For more stubborn dullness, consider employing our professional refinishing services.

Regular dusting, proper cleaning, and occasional polishing will keep your furniture looking polished and vibrant for years to come.

Dining tables are often the heart of a home, bringing family and friends together for meals, celebrations, and gatherings. Because of their frequent use, these tables require intentional care to maintain their beauty and durability. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, we recommend several proactive steps to extend the life of your Amish Crafted dining table.

Start by using tablecloths, placemats, and coasters to protect the surface from everyday wear. These items shield the table from spills, heat, and scratches caused by plates, utensils, and hot dishes. Avoid placing hot items directly on the table; instead, use trivets or heat-resistant pads to prevent heat marks and warping. For added protection, consider using decorative runners to prevent accidental spills and scratches while enhancing the table’s aesthetic.

You may want to invest in a heavy duty Table Pad by Hilda at Hall of Fame Table Pad Company.

After each use, wipe the table with a soft, damp cloth to remove crumbs and spills, always following the direction of the wood grain. Immediately dry the surface with a clean cloth to prevent water marks. Moisture can cause warping or discoloration.

Avoid dragging heavy objects across the surface; always lift and carefully place items to prevent scratches and dents.

Regularly inspect the table for loose joints, hardware, or surface damage. Tighten any loose nuts and address small scratches promptly.

Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels between 50% and 60% is essential to prevent wood expansion or contraction, which can lead to cracks and warping. Using a cool air moisturizer in dry seasons and an air Conditioner in humid months helps stabilize the environment.

By following these care practices, your Amish-crafted dining table will remain a stunning and functional centerpiece in your home for generations to come.

Sunlight can significantly damage wood furniture, causing fading, discoloration, and drying of the wood. To protect your Amish-crafted furniture from UV damage, Jake’s Amish Furniture recommends placing furniture away from direct sunlight whenever possible.

Install UV-blocking window treatments such as blinds, curtains, or window films to minimize exposure. These treatments are especially useful in rooms with large windows or glass doors that receive direct sunlight. Consider using sheer curtains for spaces that need natural light but still require protection.

Additionally, rotating decorative items like lamps, vases, and books on your furniture prevents uneven fading. Sunlight exposure can create distinct outlines where items are placed, so regularly moving these objects ensures even coloration.

Regular dusting not only keeps your furniture looking beautiful but also helps slow the effects of UV damage. By taking these preventative measures, you can protect your investment and enjoy your Amish-crafted furniture for generations.

Upholstered furniture adds comfort and style to your home, but it requires regular maintenance to stay fresh and clean. Dust, dirt, and allergens can accumulate in fabric over time, leading to discoloration and wear.

Jake’s Amish Furniture recommends regular vacuuming with a soft brush on a Kirby Vacuum Cleaner to gently clean fabric surfaces and remove dirt from crevices.

For spills, blot the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth to absorb moisture. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread stains and damage the fabric. For tougher stains, use a mild, fabric-safe cleaner and always test it on an inconspicuous area first. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

Rotate and fluff cushions regularly to prevent uneven wear and sagging. Keep upholstered furniture out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and fabric deterioration. With consistent care and attention, your upholstered pieces will remain comfortable, clean, and visually appealing for years.

Dust may seem harmless, but it can cause significant damage to wood furniture over time. At Jake’s Amish Furniture, we recommend regular dusting to maintain the beauty and longevity of your wood furniture. Dust particles are abrasive and can scratch and dull the finish if not removed carefully. For best results, use our UltimateCloth to trap dust rather than spreading it.

Always dust in the direction of the wood grain to minimize the risk of scratching. Avoid feather dusters, which can scatter dust and scratch delicate surfaces. For hard-to-reach areas and intricate carvings, a soft-bristled brush on a Kirby Vacuum Cleaner is ideal for gently lifting dust. Regular dusting not only keeps your furniture looking its best but also prevents dust buildup that can attract moisture and cause long-term damage.

Scratches and scuffs are common issues that can detract from the beauty of wood furniture. For light scratches, Jake’s Amish Furniture recommends Old English Furniture Polish. This can help blend minor scratches into the surrounding wood grain.

For deeper scratches, we offer furniture repair kits that match our stain colors and include a wax repair stick. Always follow the wood grain when applying any product to blend the repair seamlessly.

Regular cleaning and prompt attention to any damage can significantly extend the life of your
furniture. Adding felt pads to furniture legs and avoiding dragging items across surfaces also helps prevent new scratches. Consistent care will keep your Amish furniture looking pristine and prevent minor imperfections from becoming major issues.