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Nothing beats the feeling of buying a great desk. You feel confident it will boost your productivity and add enjoyment to your work. But taking care of a desk is no walk in the park. To maintain the beauty, you need to put in some work. That’s where our desk maintenance tips come in.
No one wants to invest in a desk that lasts only the bare minimum time. To ensure that your desk lasts longer, you need to clean it like your life depends on it. Well, not really. But you need tips and skills to keep your desk in tip-top shape.
We won’t take too much of your time, here’s how to clean different types of desks – choose yours from the list.
How to Care for Your Glass Desk
Glass desks are the focal points of home offices and traditional offices. They are elegant and make a room seem airy and large – due to the illusion of space that a clear glass top creates.
In addition, glass desks blend with just about any type of furniture and accessories you may have in the room. You can experiment with décor since glass will go well with whatever décor you go for.
Glass is as beautiful as it is fragile. You need to handle it with care to ensure you do not damage it and hurt yourself in the process.
Glass office desks are made of a variety of glass materials, with the best option being tempered glass.
Tempered glass easily prevents accidents since it is reinforced to protect it from shattering.
You, however, cannot take this for granted since tempered glass can still be damaged if you place heavy loads on it. Take the necessary precautions and you’ll be sure to enjoy the beauty that emanates from your glass computer desk.
To maintain its shiny, flawless look, you need to keep it clean at all times. Our invaluable desk maintenance tips will help you to keep your glass top desk in great shape.
Fingerprints, dust, and dirt show easily and should be telltale signs that it’s time to clean your glass desk’s surface. Keep cleaning materials within reach to ensure you can clean at any time.
Be wise and avoid abrasive chemicals and materials that can scratch the glass. Glass is sensitive and easily shows any form of maltreatment from chemicals and handling.
You should not only handle your glass office desk with care as you move it, but even as you use it. When you put something on the desk, place it gently to avoid cracks.
Avoid placing sharp objects on the glass top to protect it from scratches. Just as you would use coasters and mats on a glass table, use a desk pad on your glass desk.
You should not only handle your glass office desk with care as you move it, but even as you use it. When you put something on the desk, place it gently to avoid cracks.
Avoid placing sharp objects on the glass top to protect it from scratches. Just as you would use coasters and mats on a glass table, use a desk pad on your glass desk.
As much as glass is fragile and sensitive, it is also easy to clean and maintain.
Just avoid any banging, roughness and placing heavy objects on your glass desk and it will last long.
Cleaning and caring for your desk can make it last longer than desks made from stronger materials.
A dirt-free glass desk stays shiny and brightens a room. You can keep your glass desk spick and span with our desk maintenance tips. Try to clean your desk at least once a week and use distilled water, a spray bottle, a soft microfiber cloth, vinegar, and an old newspaper for the perfect shine.
Some of our desk maintenance tips call for organizational gadgets. When you put stationary and other things anywhere on your desk, the clutter is unbecoming.
Your desk becomes messy and tends to make your office look shabby. You can acquire some desk organizers, drawer organizers, a file cabinet, or a hutch to store your office essentials.
Keep cables out of the way and remove clutter under the desk. Your desk should determine the type of equipment you buy. You can even buy wireless equipment if there is no way of keeping the cables in check.
To clean your glass computer desk properly, you can invest in glass cleaners. Keep your desk clean and shiny and quickly get rid of any dust or smudges.
Caring for a glass office desk is neither difficult nor impossible. Follow these cleaning and maintenance tips and your desk will stay in tip-top shape.
How to Clean Your Glass Desk
Cleaning a glass desk is not a one-off affair, it should be a regular habit. This way, you’ll prevent the glass top from having stains, marks, and scratches. Below are some cleaning tips for your glass top desk.
- Begin by clearing the desktop so as to have free reign over the surface. Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust and any spills that are not stuck to the desk. To ensure the table top does not have streaks, spray it with warm water. Use a soft dry microfiber cloth to wipe the surface.
- In case there are some stubborn stains stuck on your glass desk, spray more warm water and wipe it with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar also works magic on stubborn stains. Simply use undiluted white vinegar to clean the surface with the stubborn stains.
- If your glass computer desk has stubborn stains that require more effort to remove, you can use a mixture of liquid soap, vinegar, and water. Mix ⅟2 teaspoon of liquid soap with ⅟4 cup of vinegar and 2 cups of water.
- Using a crumpled newspaper is one of the desk maintenance tips passed down from generation to generation. When you are done cleaning your glass office desk with soap, water, and vinegar, use a newspaper to remove any fluff and to give it extra shine.
- You can also use a razorblade to clean the glass. The sharp edge of a razorblade will remove the stubborn spots without making your desk an eyesore.
- One of the little known desk maintenance tips is the use of distilled water when cleaning a glass desk. You probably don’t know that the regular water you use at home, or even hard water, can leave streaks on your glass desk. Unlike hard or regular water, distilled water is free of minerals and will leave your glass desk as it should be – flawless.
- We mentioned earlier about using undiluted vinegar to clean your glass desk. When vinegar is diluted, it might leave unsightly marks on your gorgeous glass desk. Paper towels have a tendency of leaving lint on a glass top. Get a lint-free microfiber cloth that will not leave residues behind.
- As you clean your glass top desk, ensure that you clean both the inner and outer side for the best results. Most glass desktops can be removed. However, exercise extreme caution when handling the glass desktop and especially when it’s removed from its support. You don’t want it to break or injure yourself in the process.
- Since the trusty old newspaper tends to give the best shine, you can protect your hands from its ink by using gloves. Funny enough, the ink, though it’s transferred to your hands, is never transferred to your glass desk. If you’d rather not use a newspaper, use a dry a microfiber cloth.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Glass Desk
- 1.A big no-no is the use of soap with suds. Who doesn’t like the sight of white suds during cleaning? But on glass, soap tends to leave streaks behind. If you have to use soap when cleaning your glass desk, use it sparingly. For that extra sparkle, you can polish your glass desk with a microfiber cloth.
- After thoroughly cleaning your glass desk, you can use regular water and a microfiber cloth to remove any minor spills.
- If you are using a commercial glass cleaner for your glass desk, remove the glass from the wood to protect the wood from the harsh chemicals. The wood is part of the glass desk and if it is unsightly, it taints its look. Use wood polish for the wood that supports the glass top.
Glass Desk Maintenance Tips
Glass desks look amazing in any space and make offices seem larger than they actually are. Glass is versatile and ideal for various settings. A glass top desk creates an airy feel that is perfect for a work environment.
When buying a glass computer desk, you may tend to dig deeper in your pocket for the sleek and classy piece of beauty.
You may not know it, but glass is durable and can outlive wood if it is well cared for.
Glass is, however, very sensitive and easily shows cracks, scratches, and dirt.
These glass desk maintenance tips will ensure that your desk remains in great shape.
- Glass is easy to maintain since all it requires is to be kept clean at all times. It isn’t hard to keep glass clean as the tiniest smudge of dirt clearly manifests itself on the surface.
- Use a soft damp cloth to clean the glass. Non-abrasive cleaning agents can also make a glass office desk sparkle.
- Newspapers also do a good job of making a glass desk shine. Despite popular belief or misconceptions, the ink from the newspaper does not bleed onto the glass. A crumpled newspaper can make a glass desktop shine. It offers a quick and inexpensive way to get that coveted shine.
- Glass scratches very easily. Placing sharp objects or banging things on the glass top can lead to damage. Be gentle with your glass desk.
- It is advisable to use a coaster or a table mat when taking a drink or food to protect the glass top from rings that will stain it.
- Even though tempered glass is the most secure, because it is reinforced, it still needs to be well cared for if it is to last long. This tip particularly applies to those who use many monitors on their glass top desks.
- A glass office desk that’s devoid of organizers tends to get cluttered easily. Get a desk organizer to ensure that everything has its place.
- Glass comes in various styles and designs. Engraved glass, etched glass, and colored glass are timeless designs that light up rooms. Clean the glass with a damp microfiber cloth to remove debris and dirt. In case there are stubborn stains, use a gentle glass cleaner. To avoid streaks that deface film-coated glass, dampen the cloth first instead of spraying water or a detergent on the glass.
- Use undiluted vinegar for that fresh smell and to make your glass desk squeaky clean. When using water, use distilled water that is free of minerals. This ensures that there are no minerals causing or leaving marks on your glass top desk.
- When cleaning your glass top desk, lift it gently from the wooden support to clean both sides of the glass. You need to do this gently to ensure the glass does not break, get scratched, or hurt you.
- Glass tends to streak easily. When cleaning it, avoid using soap lest it leaves unsightly marks. If you feel you have to use soap, use a tiny amount and dilute it with water (dilute ⅟2 teaspoon of liquid soap with 2 cups of water).
How to Care for a Solid Wood Desk
Wood furniture ages according to how you care for it. Solid wood desks are made of a high-quality material and require regular cleaning to enhance their durability. To clean your solid wood desk, you can dust, wipe, wax, or polish it – it all depends on the type of wood and its requirements.
Whenever you’re buying a solid wood computer desk, inquire about the cleaning guidelines for the wood. This will ensure that you clean it properly. The wood will not lose its luster and your desk will last.
How to Clean Your Solid Wood Desk
If your solid wood desk has seen its fair share of cleaning, its polish may become a blur and it may lose its original shine. To ensure that your wooden desk remains in great condition, you must clean it without damaging its finish. Make the most of these useful cleaning tips.
- First, dust the wood to eliminate any dust. Mix a solution of warm water and mild soap (2cups of water and ⅟2 teaspoon of soap) for a deep clean. Use a soft cloth to clean your solid wood desk then use a dry one to dry it. If your desk still looks dirty, use steel wool to clean the finish lightly. On the steel wool, apply a cleaning product that will dissolve both the water and oil based residues.
- Avoid using products with boiled linseed, turpentine, or white vinegar since these may darken your wood and attract debris. You can use clear wax instead.
- For regular cleaning, mix a weak solution of warm water and dishwashing soap. Dip a cloth in the soapy solution, wring it and use it to wipe the desk. Do not pour water on the wood desk since water damages wood. Rinse the cloth and wring out all the water before wiping the desk.
- If you are cleaning your solid wood desk and there are hard-to-access areas, you can use an old toothbrush to clean those areas.
- After you have cleaned your desk, protect its glossy finish with quality paste wax. Apply a thin paste for the best results. After five minutes, use a soft cloth to rub it in gently and reveal its shine. For a long-lasting shine, rub the wood a bit more vigorously one hour after applying the wax.
- Wood can make a room come alive – even though the wood itself is dead. Do not be misled by talks of, ‘nourish your wood,’ ‘feed your wood,’ or any other such talks. The wood from which your desk is made is dead. Nothing can penetrate the protective finish a wooden desk has, be it polish or oil.
- If you happen to see a white ring left by a glass or a mug, you can use a mild product to remove it. You can also create concoctions by mixing common home products – like equal parts of olive oil and vinegar, cooking oil and ashes, or non-gel toothpaste and baking soda.
- Another easy do-it-yourself technique for removing a white ring is to use a clothes iron at medium setting. Place a soft cloth over the spot with the stain, iron it, and move it frequently. Keep checking the clothes iron to ensure it does not burn the cloth and damage the wood.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Solid Wood Desk
Caring for your wood desk may sometimes be a difficult task, especially when stains set in or you want to remove difficult marks. Here are more cleaning tips for your solid wood desk.
- Do you have an antique solid wood desk with a buildup of polish? Its beauty may be lying under decades of grime that you need to remove to allow its good looks to shine through. The remedy is simple. Put tea bags in boiling water and allow it to cool to room temperature. Dip a soft cloth into your tea solution and wring it until it’s damp. Use the cloth to clean the wood. The tannic acid found in the tea will bring out the luster of the wood.
- If your desk has stubborn stains emanating from cold and hot drinks being placed directly on it, you can use non-gel toothpaste and rub it gently with your finger or a cloth – depending on how big the stained area is. You can also make a solution of baking soda and toothpaste and smear it on the desk. Clean the toothpaste with a damp cloth and thoroughly dry the surface.
- To erase ink marks, make a solution of baking soda and water. Mix 1 tablespoon of each to form a thin paste. Apply it on the affected area and rub with a soft cloth until the stain is no more. Wipe the spot with a clean damp cloth and dry it well.
- After deeply cleaning your solid wood desk, apply wood polish for a shine and to preserve the finish. Commercially prepared lemon oil or a mixture of 1 cup olive oil and ¼ cup white vinegar makes for an easy polish. Use a soft cloth to wipe the wood using your preferred solution. Rub gently until it glimmers. This desk maintenance tip will ensure you have a lovely, durable solid wood desk.
- If your desk has an odor, air it outside – away from direct sunlight. Talcum powder also absorbs any unpleasant smells.
Solid Wood Desk Maintenance Tips
These desk maintenance tips will enable you to care for your solid wood desk and ensure it maintains its luster for years to come.
- Nothing can destroy your wood computer desk more than the sun. When the beautiful summer sun hits your furniture piece, you can be sure that it will not react as you would when the warm sun hits your face. Its lovely finish will fade and with time, your wood desk will dry out and even have cracks.
- Whenever you are rearranging furniture in your office, keep it away from the vents and heating unit. Heat and wood do not go well together. Your wood desk may end up drying, fading, or even shrinking. A great alternative is a humidifier that will introduce moisture into your office and help prevent your desk from cracking.
- Do you have cracks on your solid wood desk? Worry not. A similar colored shoe polish, or even better, a felt-tip marker pen of the same color can eliminate the visual aspect of the crack when applied to the spot.
- Dusting solid wood desks frequently eliminates the debris and dust that are constantly building up on a daily basis.
- The dust that accumulates on wood furniture can easily scratch the surface. You can use a soft dry feather duster to get rid of the dust on the surface of your solid wood desk. Afterwards, use a soft, damp cloth to clean up. This will ensure that the dust does not rise into the air and then re-settle onto the wood.
- There are various cleaning materials you can use to clear dust and debris – like a feather duster, a treated cloth, a lamb wool duster, a soft lint-free cloth, and a terry towel. When cleaning your solid wood desk, refrain from using chemical sprays. In addition, do not use all-purpose cleaning sprays – unless your desk has a plastic coating.
- Wood does not go well with water. You need to avoid cleaning wood with water. If there are some stubborn spots, use a mild diluted soap. Dampen a cloth with this solution and wring it. Wipe the affected area and dry it with a soft cloth.
- You can use oil polish, cleaner, and recommended furniture oils to coat the surface of the wood. These oils form a thin film that protects the wood, making it slippery. If you use products with an extremely high proportion of oil, smears and fingertips will be more visible. Dust is also easily attracted to oil.
- Sometimes your wood desk may seem dull and need sprucing up. A homemade cleaning solution may be the answer. You can revive grimy, dull wood with olive oil, denatured alcohol, gum turpentine, and strained lemon juice (mix them in equal parts). Apply this solution with a soft cloth and buff it for a shine.
- 2 popular maintenance products for a solid wood desk are wax and polish. They effectively protect the finish from scratches. Wax is a hard finish, unlike oil based finishes. It provides an outer layer of protection that is durable and does not smear.
- If you want the finish to last long, you can use paste wax which lasts as long as two years. Liquid wax lasts a shorter time and needs to be applied more frequently. It has a thin coating.
- Applying wax is an art. Proper wax application is vital since you do not want to apply a thick layer that produces a cloudy look. Apply it sparingly for a streak-free and clear finish. Afterwards, use a dry soft cloth to make your wood desk sparkle.
- Applying paste wax on a wooden desk is a skill that can be learned. Begin by placing a dollop of wax on a cotton fabric and knead the wax until it becomes soft. After you’re done, use the cloth to smear the wax on the wood in a circular motion until you finish the waxing exercise. Use a clean, dry cotton cloth to wipe off the excess wax. Repeat this process until you finish applying the wax on the desk.
- For an enhanced shine, add a second coat and apply it as you did the first time. Wipe it with a clean soft cloth and keep going until you achieve the shine that you want. Avoid liquids or aerosol furniture polish since they can dissolve the wax, leaving it cloudy.
- If you have wood family heirlooms or antiques, clean and care for them frequently. You should deeply clean wood furniture at least once a year. Formby’s Deep Cleaning Build-up Remover used together with steelwool cleans wood very well.
- If the beauty of your solid wood desk is fading, use Howard Restor-A-Finish to rejuvenate it. You can use light or moderate pressure for that extra shine.
- In case your desk has ring marks as a result of not using coasters and table mats, you can rub the rings with mayonnaise to eliminate them. Mayonnaise not only works wonders on salads, it is perfect for wood. Rub it into the wood and watch the marks vanish before your eyes.
- Wood tends to warp and change shape when exposed to extreme heat. Ensure that your wooden desk is far from heat. Humidity also has a tendency to affect wood. Keep humidity levels in your office between 40%-45% to ensure your solid wood computer desk does not swell, warp, or crack.
- As the weather changes, so does wood. Wood expands or contracts depending on the weather. Make use of your air conditioning in summer to combat cracks in wood and use a humidifier in winter to eliminate chances of your desk swelling.
- Wood scratches easily. Do not use sharp objects on your wood computer desk. Use protective gear like a desk pad to prevent scratches.
- To deep clean your solid wood computer desk, you can use Room & Board Wood Cleaner. Spray it on the surface and wipe with a clean cloth.
- If your desk is lacquered and stained, it is most likely prone to scratches. Coasters and place mats will protect your desk from these scratches.
- Always use a soft, damp cloth to clean your wood desk. But ensure that you wipe it dry afterwards. A damp cloth with water can eliminate the dust particles from your wood computer desk. It is also cheaper than chemical based products.
- If there is a stubborn stain on your solid wood desk, remove it with a soft cloth dipped in a solution of water and detergent. Avoid products with ammonia, alcohol, and petroleum as they can leave a residue.
- When waxing your wood computer desk, you can use Room and Board Satin Wax. This can be done once a year. As you apply the wax, follow the grain pattern, paying extra attention to exposed grain. Use a clean cloth to remove excess wax and to make the wood shiny.
- Chestnut does not respond well to Room and Board Satin Wax. Do not use the product on your chestnut desk. Food grade mineral oil can perk up the appearance of chestnut. Use it once every six months. The mineral oil need not be applied directly on the wood. Apply it on a cloth and use the cloth to polish your wood desk. Avoid cooking oils or harsh chemicals.
- Manufacturers usually apply varnish, polyurethane, or shellac to protect wood surfaces. These can protect the finish and reduce chances of scratching. You can also sand your solid wood desk to remove scratches, burns, and debris.
- Pledge Polish and other types of dust polish may not be good for your solid wood computer desk since they may contain silicones that are harmful. Silicone can soak into wood, damaging it. Opt for hard, carnauba Wax and make your solid wood desk sparkle. Do this at least twice a year.
- Some oils can easily smear and show fingertips. Olive oil also promotes smears and is highly attractive to dust particles.
- Candle wax and rubber bumpers may react with wood and leave stains.
- Always care for your desk according to its finish, since there are different types of finishes. Pay close attention to the wood grain and clean in the same direction of the grain.
How to Care for a Wood Veneer Desk
Wood veneer is economical since it involves little wastage. It is a small layer of real wood that covers cheaper materials, like particle board or medium-density fiberboard. A wood veneer desk looks and feels like a solid wood desk but is not as expensive. You get a good-looking piece of furniture without shelling out a lot of money.
Wood veneer is beautiful and can light up any room with its elegance. It can, however, lose its appeal over time if not well cared for.
It may warp, split, or crack. Below are some desk maintenance tips that will help you to care for your wood veneer desk.
How to Clean Your Wood Veneer Desk
- For daily cleaning, use a damp cloth. Be sure to wring the cloth well to ensure it is not wet. Wipe the wood in the direction of the grain. Apart from using a solution of mild soap and warm water, you can use Windex to clean your wood veneer desk. Windex and similar products neither leave residues nor do they harm the finish. Dry your wood veneer desk with a clean dry cloth.
- Keep away from wax-based polish and silicone products that leave behind a cloudy residue that leads to buildup of grime. Ammonia and oil products are also not recommended because of the residue they leave behind. You can polish your real wood veneer desk with a high quality polish like Guardsman Furniture Polish at least twice a year.
- In case you need to clean off debris and fingerprints, Murphy’s Oil Soap will do the job. Dilute it as instructed and use a soft clean cloth to apply it on your wood veneer desk. Clean along the grain with the damp cloth.
- Alternatively, you can use a homemade solution. Mix 1 teaspoon of oil soap (or gentle soap flakes) with 2 cups of warm water. Using a soft cloth dipped in the solution, wipe the wood veneer desk in sections. Dry it off with a dry cloth.
- For instant cleaning, use non-ammonia cleaner and apply it with a dry cloth. Always ensure that spills are cleaned up immediately.
6.In case the desk has scratches, use a scratch-removing polish with a color similar to the wood veneer. If the scratches are deep, consult a professional.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Wood Veneer Desk
- You can clean your wood veneer desk at least once or twice a month using a solution of mild soap and water (1 teaspoon of soap and 2 cups of water). On the other days, simply dust your desk.
- In case there are any spills on your real wood veneer desk, clean them up as soon as possible. Do not allow spills to settle. Veneer is put together using heavy-duty glue which may peel because of moisture.
- Whenever you are dusting your wood veneer desk, ensure that the object you use is dry. When cleaning, ensure that the cloth is damp with no excess water. In case of stains, steer clear of harsh chemicals. You can use a homemade concoction or inquire from the manufacturer on how to clean the wood.
- To get rid of wax, debris, and silicone deposits, clean the wood veneer well with mild soap and warm water. Take care not to get the desk wet but wipe it with a wrung out cloth to remove the grime.
Wood Veneer Desk Maintenance Tips
- When purchasing a wood veneer desk, ask the manufacturer about the desk’s maintenance tips to ensure you adhere to them. Wood veneer is natural and caring for natural materials is no easy task.
- Get a furniture polish that does not have silicone or wax – like Endust. Most furniture polishes contain silicone and wax. Wax can leave a cloudy film on veneer furniture and build up over time, causing grime. Silicone, on the other hand, will give your desk a white coat that may end up destroying the finish.
- Keep your wood veneer desk away from direct sunlight. It will get damaged in no time. Invest in curtains or blinds to ensure the natural luster and color of the desk are maintained. High and low humidity can damage a real wood veneer desk. Be sure to regulate the humidity and moisture in your office to ensure your wood veneer desk does not crack or swell.
- It is no hidden fact that too much moisture can cause mold and swelling in wood. When there is too little moisture, the wood can crack and split. A humidifier can protect your wood against moisture.
- When you’re writing on a wood veneer desk, the pen may dent the desktop. Use a desk pad for protection.
- The surface of your wood veneer desk can age inconsistently due to the way you place objects. Rearrange objects on your desk from time to time to ensure the surface ages evenly.
- Dust is your desk’s number one enemy as it can cause scratches and ugly marks. In case your lovely desk is the unfortunate recipient of dust scratches, use high quality furniture polish to mask them.
- Wood veneer can get damaged by moisture, sunlight, and you. Why are you included in the list? You may have this overpowering urge to place your furniture piece in front of a window, making it easier for the sun to spoil it.
- You alone have the responsibility of looking for ways to protect your wood veneer desk. Install blinds, curtains, or screens to protect your desk from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can alter the color of wood. You can also get teak oil to protect your furniture piece.
- Whenever you do not use a table mat or a coaster, you expose your wood veneer desk to potential stains from vases, cups, glasses, and plates. Cold glasses can leave water marks and hot mugs can cause wood veneer to blister. Also avoid plastic items since they can easily get damaged and in turn damage the wood finish.
- If your wood veneer desk seems dry, you can apply oil. Before applying the oil, clean the surface with steel wool to eliminate scratches, debris, and grime. Use boiled linseed or Tung oil and apply it in a circular motion for the best results. Let the oil sit and dry up so it doesn’t smear. After ten minutes, buff the area with a clean dry cloth. As you continue applying oil from time to time, the periods in between will become longer as wood retains oil. You’ll only need to apply it when the wood looks dry.
- Wood veneer is more delicate than solid wood. As a result, it can easily get scratched or stained. Avoid wax-based or oil-based polishes that may damage your desk in the long run. Wax products cause an unnecessary buildup that eventually interferes with the natural luster of wood veneer. Always ensure that your wood desk is protected to maintain its rich color and beautiful finish.
- In case there are scratches to be repaired, you can apply oil polish using a soft cloth. Rub it in until the scratch is no longer visible. You can also sand wood veneer lightly in the direction of the grain. However, apply extreme caution while sanding. You do not want to damage the delicate material.
- You can also use steel wool and polish to remove scratches on your wood veneer desk. When using steel wool, rub lightly in the grain’s direction. Alternatively, you can apply a polish that removes scratches. It should have a color similar to that of the veneer. Consult a professional if the scratches are deep and you are unable to rectify them.
- Steer clear of aerosol-powered cleaners or polishes. Polishes that contain wax or abrasives are detrimental to your real wood veneer desk.
- Wood veneer has a tendency to bruise and scratch easily. Use a desk blotter to prevent it from getting damaged.
- If your wood veneer desk is badly damaged, call a professional who knows their way around the material.
How to Care for a Laminate Desk
Laminate is made by layering synthetic materials. The end product is something that looks like wood but is much lighter. Laminate has a shiny appearance and is known for its durability, even though it is cheaper than solid wood and wood veneer. Despite not being real wood, it can be sanded and painted.
Laminate furniture pieces are very easy to clean and maintain, making them perfect for children’s furniture (we all know how kids can wreak havoc on furniture).
Laminate is a great alternative to costly wood and wood veneer. It is also resistant to stains and scratches and quite sturdy.
Here are some desk maintenance tips for your laminate desk.
How to Clean Your Laminate Desk
Laminate is easy to clean and maintain. It is scratch-resistant and stain-resistant, but that does not mean you should neglect cleaning and caring for it. Use these desk maintenance tips to make your laminate office desk shine.
- Dip a clean, soft cloth in a mixture of warm water and regular soap (equal parts of both). Clean along the grain to remove debris. Dry the desk with a dry cloth to remove any excess water or moisture. For stubborn grime, mild soap and warm water should do the trick.
- Avoid using ammonia-based products on laminate furniture since the chemicals can be abrasive and produce a cloudy look. Stains can be removed with a paste of hot water and baking soda (1 cup and 1 teaspoon respectively). Gently use a soft brush to remove the stains from the surface then dry the surface.
- Laminate should be cleaned with mild soap that is bleach-free and acid-free. As you clean it, do not use metal or synthetic fibers that may scratch the surface.
- You can also use a concoction of water, vinegar, and liquid dish detergent to clean your laminate desk. Mix 1 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 3 drops of detergent.
- Laminate is non-porous hence keeps liquids on its surface. Don’t use a lot of soap or laminate cleaner when cleaning your desk.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Laminate Desk
- To keep your laminate desktop beautiful, use a non-oily spray when cleaning to prevent buildup of grime.
- Coffee and tea stains can be a nightmare. Remove them using a soft brush dipped a mild, watery detergent.
- If the stains are stubborn, an undiluted detergent or nail polish remover can also clear them. But do not let the chemicals sit for longer than two minutes. After cleaning your laminate office desk, wipe it with a soft cloth dipped in warm water then dry it thoroughly with a dry cloth as water can damage laminate furniture.
Laminate Desk Maintenance Tips
These laminate desk maintenance tips will make sure your desk gives you value for your money.
- Protect the laminate desktop from heat by using place mats. To avoid scratching the surface, do not drag objects, pick them up.
- You can use furniture polish to conceal scratches on the surface.
- Clean your desk regularly to prevent dust from accumulating.
- A laminate office desk can lose its beautiful color if exposed to direct sunlight. Place yours away from direct sunlight or protect it using blinds.
- Avoid harsh bleaches that can discolor and damage your laminate desk.
- When you use a detergent and do not wipe it off completely, it can discolor your laminate office desk. Remove stains with less than six rubs to avoid discoloration.
- If you happen to spill an acidic chemical, wipe it instantly and rinse the area thoroughly.
How to Care for a Bamboo Desk
Despite its appearance, bamboo is not real wood. It is, however, flexible and strong and requires little maintenance. Bamboo is a material used to make both indoor and outdoor furniture. But it is easily affected by water and dryness.
When bamboo is exposed to water, it tends to rot or get mold.
When it is excessively dry, it gets deprived of its natural oils and stops being flexible.
Here are our desk maintenance tips for your bamboo desk.
How to Clean Your Bamboo Desk
- Start cleaning your bamboo desk by removing dust with a soft cloth. Ensure that you also wipe the armrests and legs.
- Use warm water and a mild dishwashing detergent (mix 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of detergent) to clean your bamboo computer desk. Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and use it to clean the desk. Afterwards, use a clean dry cloth to dry the desk. Air-dry the desk and apply oil to it. Furniture oil or linseed oil can be used to make the desk flexible and to prevent cracking.
- Search for any cracks along the stalk or joints of the bamboo. You can sand these cracks with sand paper. Paste wax also works wonders on the cracks. It restores the original color and shine.
- Avoid any cleaning chemicals that can leave stains. In case you spill water or any liquid on your bamboo desktop, clean the area immediately to avoid stains. Dry heat can also cause cracks. Keep your desk away from direct sunlight to prevent cracks.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Bamboo Desk
- If there is buildup of dirt or grime, use a soft bristled brush and detergent to clean your desk. Clear the detergent with a sponge and ensure the desk does not absorb too much moisture. Wipe the desk to make sure it dries quickly then apply a thin coat of liquid wax to make it shine.
- If you clean and wax your bamboo computer desk well, stains will rarely appear. If stains do appear, clean it with mild soapy water. If the stains are stubborn, sand the desk lightly when it is dry and wax it later.
Bamboo Desk Maintenance Tips
- For a long-lasting luster, rub your bamboo desk monthly with linseed or furniture oil. If the humidity in your office is too low, the desk may crack. This is why applying oil is so important.
- Brush and dust any accumulated dirt before cleaning your desk with a sponge dipped in soapy water.
- Dust your bamboo computer desk with a small dust brush at least once a week.
- Never sit on the desk when it is wet as it may get damaged.
- In case you spill anything on your bamboo desk, clean it immediately.
- Do not use detergents when cleaning bamboo, use regular soap and water.
- Do not expose your bamboo desk to direct sunlight.
- Once a year, vacuum the desk to remove any dust hiding in crevices. You can use a desk vacuum. After cleaning the desk, air dry it then wax or polish it.
- Use coasters and place mats to protect your bamboo furniture piece from heat and moisture.
- Lift objects when moving them to ensure you do not scratch your bamboo desktop.
How to Care for a Metal Desk
Metal furniture, just like any other furniture, gathers dust and can get stained.
Additionally, it can also rust. When cleaning your metal desk, give special attention to rusting areas.
You can clean the desk outdoors as you’ll have more space.
How to Clean Your Metal Desk
Metal like wood, comes in different materials. These varying materials are cleaned differently. Here’s a guide to cleaning different types of wood.
Chrome
Chrome is sensitive and chemical cleaners may scratch or stain it, making it look worse than before. There are specific cleaning agents for chrome, like Blue-Job or Mother Chrome Polish. Clean the metal with a mixture of soap and water then dry it off with a soft dry cloth to prevent any damage.
Aluminum
Aluminum is often found outdoors since it is durable and long lasting. Spray it with water at least once a year and wash off accumulated grime. If there is dust and dirt, use a concoction of mild soap and water. You can also buy a protector for it and apply oil on it when temperatures drop.
Bronze
It is rare to find an entire piece of furniture made of bronze. The material is usually used sparingly on different furniture pieces. Dust your furniture piece with a soft cloth and apply wax on it yearly to protect it.
Use the recommended wax to ensure the patina is not darkened or lightened. Lear Trewax Brand Paste is ideal for indoor furniture while Sculpt Nouveau is perfect for outdoor furniture. Do not polish the piece and look out for the inevitable green spotting and streaking that is common with bronze.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron's main weakness is rusting. If the paint is bubbling, be sure that there is corrosion. To remedy this, rub the area with a steel pad and kerosene and do this gently to ensure you do not damage the paint. You can apply enamel paint when your furniture piece dries. Use liquid wax or furniture spray made for wrought iron. This will ward off rust.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is sturdy and can withstand any cleaning agent. There are, however, specific cleaning agents designed for stainless steel, like Method Steel Cleaner and Polish Duo. If you notice scratches, use scotch-brite scouring pad.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a Metal Desk
- A soft cloth dipped in mild, soapy water cleans a metal desk best. Abrasive cleaning agents can scratch the finish and expose the metal to moisture that may lead to rusting. If the dirt is ingrained, a multi-purpose cleaning agent works well.
- When you're cleaning your metal computer desk and you spot areas with scratches, paint them to prevent rusting. If rust or mold have already developed, sand the areas and apply paint. For aluminum furniture, use a solution of white vinegar and water (1 tablespoon of vinegar and 2 cups of water) to eliminate oxidization that promotes rust.
- When it is sunny, you can wash your metal desk outdoors. Mix 3 tablespoons of dishwashing soap with 5 gallons of warm water. Immerse a nylon scrub brush in the soapy water and scrub the furniture piece.
- A toothbrush can easily scrub nooks and crannies that a large brush cannot. Rinse the desk with plenty of water. You can wipe down any areas that cannot be rinsed with water. Afterwards, dry the furniture with a dry cloth.
- If there is rust, use a wire brush to brush the flakes. Apply a spray-on metal primer on the rusted areas and leave it to dry. Once dry, paint the areas or leave them as they are. Apply a liquid or solid car wax to the metal desk as per instructions.
- Whether your metal office desk is made of chrome, wrought iron, steel, or stainless steel, it is not difficult to maintain. When cleaning it, wipe it with a damp cloth or a brush. Whenever it gets dirty, simply wash it with dishwashing soap and warm water then wipe it dry.
- You can also use metal cleaner polish but ensure it is for the metal you are cleaning. Some metals should not be cleaned with commercial cleaners so be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions. If there are no cleaning instructions, clean a small area first and assess the reaction before moving to a larger area.
- Do not cover your metal desk with a plastic tablecloth since it can trap water, causing humidity and heat that can damage the finish.
Metal Desk Maintenance Tips
- To protect your metal desk, wipe any spills immediately then dry the area with a soft dry cloth.
- Use coasters and place mats to prevent scratches on the desk.
- When cleaning your metal computer desk, do not use abrasive cleaning agents and furniture polish.
- For a renewed look, polish your metal office desk with lemon or orange oil.
- Don’t clean the desk with strong detergents since they may corrode the material.
- Apply metal wax on your desk at least once or twice a year. Buff it with a soft cloth for a luster.
How to Care for a MDF Desk
MDF (medium density fiberboard) is a material created in a factory through a composite manufacturing process. The boards come in different sizes as they are used to make different furniture pieces.
If you can’t afford a solid wood desk, simply get a MDF desk. MDF is a durable option that will not disappoint you.
Caring for your MDF desk will be an easy task if you stick to our desk maintenance tips.
How to Clean Your MDF Desk
MDF is very sensitive to water, but on the other hand, cleaning feels incomplete without water. Here’s how to properly clean your MDF desk.
- 1.Clean the desk thoroughly with a solution of warm water and soap. Afterwards, rinse it and dry it.
- If any liquid spills on the desktop, clean it immediately. If left neglected, the liquid will seep through the moisture-resistant sealant and damage the desk.
- Avoid abrasive cleaning agents as they can cause cracks on your MDF desk by damaging the surface. If you have to use a harsh cleaning agent, apply a moisture-resistant sealant. Dishwashing soap is a better option since it is mild. In case stains are not removed by regular dishwashing soap, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not use the same dishcloth you use to wipe dishes on your desk since germs and other bacteria can be transferred. Your MDF desk can be prematurely damaged by the bacteria ruining the sealant.
Additional Cleaning Tips for a MDF Desk
- Even a few drops of water can affect MDF. When it soaks, it swells. Condensation from the atmosphere makes the material swell.
- Use an all-purpose cleaner to clean your MDF desk. You can use a damp cloth and rinse it in warm water.
- Mild oil soap perfectly cleans unfinished or unpainted MDF furniture. But dilute the oil soap in warm water first. After cleaning the desk, rinse it with a wet cloth to ensure no soap lingers.
MDF Desk Maintenance Tips
- Do not manhandle your MDF desk. MDF may appear harder than some wood types but it has soft inner layers that can be easily damaged.
- Since MDF has a smooth surface, scratches stand out. Sand these scratches before priming. To avoid scratches on your MDF desk, wear gloves when carrying the sheets during assembly.
- MDF is prone to sagging, but you can firm it up with wood. You do not want to have an MDF desk that is sagging.
- MDF has two hard outer layers and a soft core at the middle. Use a countersinking drill bit to avoid splitting of the core when you drive a screw in.
