Maintenance tips & recommendations
Our products are made from wood, which is an organic and living material. In order for our products to preserve their original appearance and condition, we have put together some tips for maintenance.
Should you wish to change the finish of the product you have purchased, this is also possible as they are made of solid wood. They can be sanded down and treated again with the surface treatment you would like. See our maintenance tips below.
Dalbunn Design AS -
Guidelines for maintenance
In most cases, our products have received an initial surface treatment. The original treatment varies from product to product, and the level of wear will therefore also vary. We therefore recommend different maintenance intervals for each type of surface treatment. When you buy a product from Dalbunn Design As, it is stated in the product description which initial treatment the product has received. Wooden trays and centerpieces have typically received a mild soap treatment as these are exposed to less wear and tear than, for example, a tree stump table. We recommend that the products are maintained with the same type of treatment as the original treatment.
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Danish soap wash -
Here the use of the product plays a role in how often we recommend a refreshing treatment. Danish soap treatment is less durable than oil treatments, and will therefore need refreshing treatment more often. In return, the soap treatment gives a great matt and natural finish which is not easy to achieve with most types of wood oils. If the product is often exposed to moisture and greasy objects (such as a dining table, for example), we would recommend treating the product up to 6 times a year. If the product is rarely exposed to moisture, grease or touch, an annual maintenance treatment may be an appropriate interval.
How to perform the Danish soap wash:
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If the product is dirty, it is recommended to clean it with three cleaners before the soap treatment.
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Distribute the soap treatment over the entire product. It is important that the product is treated on all sides at the same time, to avoid tension in the wood.
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Rub the soap treatment in to the wood in the direction of the grain.
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Leave the soap treatment on for 5-10 minutes, but make sure the soap does not dry out on the product. It can create shields. Apply more soap if it dries out within the treatment time.
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When the time is up, wipe off the soap treatment with a dry, lint-free cloth..
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Polish the product clean with a dry, lint-free cloth.
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If there is any excess soap left on the product after the treatment is finished, wipe it off with a slightly damp cloth.
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After the soap treatment has dried, the wood often has a rough and gray surface and the wood fibers tend to rise. If you want a smoother surface with more color and shine, you can sand the product with sandpaper type 180 or higher. This will give an even and smooth finish, with a great "Scandinavian look".
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The procedure may vary based on which product you choose. So read the user manual carefully and adjust the procedure if necessary.
Oil treatment-
An oil treatment will usually highlight the colors and pattern in the wood. And it will give a more golden expression. It forms a water and grease-repellent film on the surface of the wood, which means that dirt and fatty substances do not penetrate the wood and can be washed away more easily.
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How to perform an oli treatment of wood items:
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Make sure that the piece of wood you are going to treat is clean and free of dust.
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Apply the oil with a clean brush or sponge. Apply an even coat, making sure to saturate the wood.
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Let the oil soak for 5-15 minutes. (See the product supplier's instructions for use).
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Wipe and polish with a lint-free dry rag.
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Allow the wood to dry for 10-24 hours. (See the product supplier's instructions for use).
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If the wood is previously untreated, you will achieve the best protection by repeating the treatment after the first treatment has dried. So that you get 2 coats. In the case of maintenance, one treatment will usually be sufficient
Important safety information:
When using oil-based products, there is a risk of self-ignition of rags that have been exposed to the oil. The product suppliers therefore recommend either soaking all rags, sponges and paper that have oil on them in water. Or to burn them immediately.
Some of the oil products on the market can be harmful to the health of those who apply them and are thus exposed to the solvents that are present in the oil products before they have dried. Therefore, carefully read the instructions for use from the product suppliers and follow all precautions recommended by the manufacturer. Such as gloves, goggles, respirators, etc. ​ Some oils can also be dangerous to get into the airways. Those kind of products are marked with the hazard symbol for chemical pneumonia. It is important not to get these products in the mouth and throat. But it is also important not to inhale spray mist. It is extremely important to keep such products out of the reach of children. ​
Although some of these products can be harmful to health when applied, they can be harmless and environmentally friendly after they have dried properly. Therefore, read the manufacturer's description and instructions for use, so that you know which guidelines apply to the product at hand.