Antique furniture can last for hundreds of years if cared for properly.  The following are the top 5 care tips for wood furniture:

1. Don’t put your antique wood furniture in the Attic or Garage - extreme heat and/or humidity will cause cracking and  and loosen joints and veneer.  Wood responds to changes in temperature and humidity. It swells or shrinks and can warp or split.
2. Use paste wax, rather than silicone based polish or oils.  Furniture paste wax is stable and long lasting. It will provide protection from moisture and dust and is not permanent.
3. Use a very soft cloth, such as cheesecloth, or Swiffer when dusting.  A dry rag or feather duster might scratch the surface.
4. If your home is very dry (especially in the winter), use a humidifier.
5. Never use metal polish on metal knobs, keyholes, ormolu, or other decoration.  (Metal polish can ruin the wood underneath).  If you hate the patina (keep in mind that the patina is desirable by most collectors) take the metal off the wood before cleaning.

I learned this trick when I first started collecting Carnival glass. An old timer told me that this was the Best Way to Clean Antique Glass.

Buy a large plastic storage container (Big enough to hold your largest piece of glass).

Then fill the storage container with Parson’s Ammonia.

Submerge your glass for an hour, then remove and rinse with water.   Your glass will positively sparkle!

* Keep the ammonia in a safe place with the lid on for repeated use.