Care Guide

Your ENWA furniture is crafted from solid oak or walnut—living materials that respond to their environment. With proper care, these pieces will develop a beautiful patina and last for generations.

Environment

Temperature

Solid wood is happiest at stable room temperatures between 18–24°C (64–75°F).

  • Avoid placing furniture near heat sources (radiators, fireplaces, heating vents)
  • Keep away from air conditioning units that blow directly on the surface
  • Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading and uneven drying
  • When moving furniture in winter, allow it to acclimate before unpacking

Humidity

Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. Ideal relative humidity is 40–60%.

  • Use a humidifier in dry winter months (especially with central heating)
  • Use a dehumidifier in humid summer months if above 70% RH
  • Avoid placing furniture in bathrooms or near kitchen steam
  • Minor seasonal movement is natural and not a defect
Japan-specific: During tsuyu (rainy season) and summer, humidity can exceed 80%. We recommend running a dehumidifier to protect your furniture.

Daily Care

Cleaning

  • Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth (microfiber works well)
  • For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately
  • Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain
  • Never use harsh chemicals, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners
  • Avoid all-purpose sprays—they can damage the finish

Spills

  • Act immediately—blot (don't rub) with a dry cloth
  • Water rings can form if moisture sits—wipe up drinks promptly
  • For sticky spills, use a damp cloth then dry thoroughly
  • Hot dishes should always use trivets or heat pads

Protection

Preventive Measures

  • Use coasters under glasses and cups
  • Use placemats and trivets for hot dishes
  • Use felt pads under decorative objects
  • Lift objects when moving them—don't drag across the surface
  • Consider a tablecloth for messy activities (children's crafts, etc.)

Sunlight

UV exposure will gradually change the wood's color. Oak typically lightens, while walnut may lighten or shift tone.

  • Rotate items on tables periodically for even aging
  • Use curtains or blinds during peak sun hours
  • UV-filtering window film can help in sunny rooms

Upholstery Care

For ENWA sofas and chairs with fabric cushions:

  • Vacuum regularly using the upholstery attachment
  • Rotate and flip cushions monthly for even wear
  • Blot spills immediately—never rub
  • Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
  • Professional cleaning recommended once a year
Fabric codes: Check your fabric's cleaning code. Most ENWA fabrics are "W" (water-based cleaner) or "WS" (water or solvent). Refer to your order documentation or contact us.

Long-term Maintenance

Urethane-finished Pieces (all ENWA)

All ENWA pieces use a thin-coat semi-gloss urethane finish — durable enough to resist water marks, thin enough to let you feel the oak grain. Maintenance is minimal:

  • No re-oiling or waxing required — ever
  • Wipe with a soft dry cloth for daily care
  • For stubborn marks, use a damp cloth with mild dish soap (diluted 3–5%), then dry immediately
  • The finish protects against water rings from glasses and cups under normal use

Minor Scratches

  • Light surface scratches often become less visible over time as the wood patinas
  • For deeper scratches, contact us — our workshop can refinish individual pieces by stripping and recoating the urethane (typically needed once in 10–15 years, if at all)

What's Normal

Solid wood is a natural material. These characteristics are normal and not defects:

  • Color variation — Each piece of wood is unique
  • Grain patterns — Knots, rays, and figure are natural features
  • Minor movement — Seasonal expansion/contraction (1-2mm) is normal
  • Patina development — Color will deepen and enrich over time
  • Surface texture — Wood grain may feel slightly raised in humid conditions

These are signs of genuine solid wood. Your furniture is alive—and that's what makes it beautiful.

Questions?

For care advice, repair inquiries, or any concerns about your ENWA furniture:

shop@mililab.co