Oil in, not plastic on.
Why every White's piece is finished with penetrating oil and wax - and how to keep it looking its best for decades.
Two ways to finish wood
Film finishes such as lacquer and polyurethane sit on top of the wood like a clear shell. They look glossy when new, but once they chip or wear through, the repair means stripping and refinishing the whole surface.
Penetrating oil finishes soak into the fibres and harden inside the wood. The surface keeps the feel of real timber, the grain shows depth and colour, and everyday wear can be blended away at home with a soft cloth and a little oil.
Pieces made for wet areas, such as vanity tops and outdoor benches, get an additional water-resistant or UV-resistant protective coat, noted on the listing.
Choose a tone, keep the grain.
Most designs are offered in several tones. The colour is worked into the oil, so the grain still shows through. Swatches are a guide only - every board takes colour a little differently.
Living with an oiled finish
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Every week | Dust with a dry microfibre cloth. Wipe spills straight away with a damp cloth, then dry. |
| Every day | Use coasters and trivets for hot, cold or wet items. Keep pieces out of strong direct sun and at least a few feet from heaters and vents. |
| Once or twice a year | Wipe on a thin coat of furniture oil or hardwax oil, leave 15 minutes, then buff off all the excess with a clean cloth. |
| For a light scratch | Rub along the grain with a little oil on a fine (0000) steel wool or a soft pad, then buff. Most marks disappear into the finish. |
| Avoid | Silicone polishes, ammonia or bleach sprays and soaking-wet cloths. |
See the finish for yourself.
Every listing shows several angles and close-ups of the grain.
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