Oak bathroom cabinets need extra care when sitting in a space that’s likely to be exposed to moisture and water. They’re a natural product needing protection, more so than cheap melamine or MDF alternatives. Not doing so can lead to the deterioration of your cabinets and, overall, a poor piece of bathroom furniture. So, you must look at what you can do to protect your oak bathroom cabinets to increase their longevity and save you from spending excessive costs on repairs or replacements within weeks of purchase.
Table of contents
- What to do when the oak cabinet first enters the home
- Installing the oak cabinet
- How to clean oak cabinets
- What is Danish Oil?
What to do when the oak cabinet first enters the home
You’ve ordered your new oak cabinet and it’s finally arrived! From the get-go, you want to be very careful when removing it from the packaging. This will typically be a cardboard box, so don’t use a sharp knife to cut through the packaging as this will risk marking or damaging the cabinet. Remove any foam (usually polyfoam), standing the cabinet as steady as possible on its legs.
Take care when removing handles and shelf supports from the packaging, also. You don’t want to risk accidentally throwing these away with the packaging.
Once all the unpacking is complete, wipe down the wood with a damp cloth. This will remove any dust or residue that’s clung to the cabinet during transportation or storage. After that, you can begin the installation process.
Installing the oak cabinet
You’ll need to do specific things with the cabinet before, during and after the installation. Here are those processes listed to ensure your oak bathroom cabinet is in great condition following the installation.
Before installing the oak cabinet
Although some oak cabinets are typically applied with a light application of Danish Oil, apply a layer of light or natural Danish Oil to the cabinet. This is required as it can help bring out the grain of the wood. It can also improve durability, providing a tough finish with a better waterproof exterior.
When you choose a location to install it, do not place it in an area near central heating vents or radiators. It’s also wise to avoid exposing the oak bathroom cabinet to strong or direct sunlight. Not doing so can cause the finish to fade from the furniture.
During the installation of the oak cabinet
Cabinets will usually come undrilled. It ensures you can install the basin and tap where and as you want it. This also allows you to put the pipes in place to suit the location of your plumbing system. After drilling the new tap and waste holes in place, seal them carefully with Danish Oil on the inside for improved protection.
After installing the oak cabinet
Aftercare is important. Using Danish Oil regularly is recommended to help keep a water-resistant finish. Every three to six months is advised, ensuring natural grains are durable and offer a luxury appearance.
How to clean oak cabinets
The way you clean your oak cabinets matters is crucial. This is because the wood is natural and so requires extra care. So typically, you will need to make sure that you use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Avoid the use of abrasive cleaning products. Using these can cause damage to the bathroom furniture.
What is Danish Oil?
Danish Oil is commonly used for wood finishings to protect and sustain it from the inside. It’s not a naturally occurring oil, but an oil mixed from other oils which is why there are a variety of different types available.
Why should I use Danish Oil?
Danish Oil has many key benefits when used on wooden furniture. The following is what makes it popular amongst those with wooden furniture.
- Easy to apply.
- Four to six hours of drying time per coat.
- Natural low glossy finish to enhance the attractiveness of the furniture.
- Little odour during the drying state and none when completely dry.
- Penetrates all types of timber to ensure nourished and protected surfaces.
- Doesn’t leave surface film or varnish.
- Will not chip, flake, crack or peel away.
- Dirt and stain-resistant (wine, beer, coffee, tea, fizzy drinks, juice and food).
- Naturally water resistance.
- Microporous to water vapours allowing the wood to ‘breathe’.
Want to check out what bathroom oak furniture you could fit into your washroom? Explore our range at Plumbing Superstore. Alternatively, if you have additional questions about any plumbing supplies, you can contact our friendly customer service team for advice.
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