How to Care for Your Dining Table: Simple Tips to Keep It Looking Lovely

Your dining table is more than just furniture – it’s where everyday meals, special occasions, and all the bits in between happen. So naturally, you’ll want to keep it looking its best. From wood to marble and everything in between, here’s a down-to-earth guide to dining table care.

Looking After Wood Dining Tables (Solid or Veneered)

Wood is a natural, characterful material that ages beautifully with the right care.

• Wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth, followed by a dry, lint-free one to remove any moisture.
  

• Tackle spills straight away – this helps avoid staining or damage.
  

• Use a gentle wood-safe cleaner for tougher marks. Avoid anything too strong or abrasive – no harsh sprays or polish.
  

• Got a tiny scratch? For veneered tables, a dab of oil polish can help. For solid wood, try touching up with matching varnish or paint – always test a hidden patch first.
  

• Use coasters and placemats – hot drinks, serving dishes, and wine glasses can all leave marks.
  

• Keep it out of direct sunlight if you can. Sunlight can cause fading or slight warping over time.
  

• Avoid placing it near radiators – heat can cause veneer to lift or natural wood to shift slightly.

• Remember: Wood reacts to temperature and humidity, so changes in environment might lead to tiny cracks or subtle movement – all part of its charm.
  

Caring for Lacquered Dining Tables

Lacquered tables bring a sleek, polished look—but they can show fingerprints and fine scratches if not cared for gently

• Clean as you would wood: use a damp cloth first, then a soft, dry one.
  
  

• For fingerprints or smudges, a clean microfibre cloth works wonders.
  
  

• Always use placemats and coasters to preserve the lacquer finish.

Glass Dining Table Maintenance

Glass tables add light and elegance—and they’re simple to look after with the right routine.

• Wipe with a clean, dry cloth for a streak-free shine
  
  

• Regular dusting keeps the surface sparkling and smudge-free
  
  

• Avoid abrasive sponges or sprays that might dull the finish
  
  

How to Look After Concrete, Stone & Marble Tables

These bold, sculptural pieces deserve a little extra care to stay looking their best.

• Wipe spills immediately—stone and marble are porous and can stain
  
  

• Keep sharp objects (like keys or cutlery) off the surface to avoid scratches
  
  

• Clean with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly to protect the finish
  
  

• Avoid strong chemical cleaners—opt for gentle, pH-neutral options
  
  

Extending Dining Tables: Handle With Care

Extending dining tables are a great blend of style and function—but a little gentleness goes a long way.

• Never drag or force the extension parts—this can strain the mechanism or joints.
  
  

• If you can, get someone to help when extending or moving the table
  
  

• Store any removable leaves flat and out of direct heat or moisture.

Final Tip

Looking after your dining table doesn’t need to be a chore. With a few mindful habits—wiping spills quickly, using coasters, and cleaning gently—you’ll keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Whether it’s solid oak, polished marble, minimalist glass, or statement concrete, a little care goes a long way.

Looking for a New Dining Table?

Explore our full collection of stylish dining tables—designed to suit every space and lifestyle. From solid wood classics to modern pieces with sleek silhouettes, you’ll find the perfect table to anchor your home.

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Dining Table Care FAQs

Q: How often should I clean my dining table?
For everyday use, wipe your dining table daily with a soft, damp cloth followed by a dry one. Deeper cleaning (using wood-safe or pH-neutral cleaners) can be done weekly or as needed.

Q: Can I use regular cleaning sprays on my wood table?
It’s best to avoid harsh or abrasive sprays. Instead, use a mild, wood-safe cleaner or simply warm water with a little gentle soap, followed by thorough drying.

Q: What’s the best way to protect a wooden dining table from heat and stains?
Use placemats, coasters, and table runners. Avoid placing hot dishes or wet glasses directly on the surface to prevent marks and warping.

Q: Are marble and stone dining tables high maintenance?
Not necessarily. With regular wiping and quick attention to spills, they stay in excellent shape. Avoid acids and strong chemicals, and use coasters to protect from stains.

Q: How do I stop my glass table from streaking?
Use a clean, dry microfibre cloth and avoid over-wetting the surface. A streak-free glass cleaner or diluted vinegar solution also works well for a clear shine.