A quality board game table is a significant investment—and with proper care, it should last decades. The good news: wood furniture maintenance isn't complicated. A few simple habits protect your table from the common enemies: moisture, heat, UV light, and everyday wear.
Daily Care
Surface Cleaning
For routine cleaning, less is more:
- Dust regularly: A soft, dry cloth or microfiber duster removes surface dust without scratching
- Wipe spills immediately: The faster you address spills, the less chance of damage
- Use minimal moisture: When needed, a slightly damp cloth—never wet—followed by a dry cloth
- Avoid household cleaners: Most contain chemicals that damage wood finishes over time
For playing surfaces (neoprene, speed cloth), follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Most can be gently vacuumed or wiped with a damp cloth.
Coasters Are Not Optional
Water rings are the most common damage to wood tables—and the most preventable. Use coasters for all drinks, every time. No exceptions.
Even with coasters, condensation can drip. On humid days or with very cold drinks, a small towel or napkin under the coaster provides extra protection.
Heat Protection
Hot dishes, warm laptops, and pizza boxes can all damage finishes. Use trivets or placemats for anything warm. This applies even with toppers on—heat can transfer through and affect the underlying structure.
Weekly Maintenance
Dust Thoroughly
Once a week, dust more thoroughly:
- Move accessories and items off the surface
- Dust the entire table, including legs and undersides of rails
- Clean rail attachment points where dust accumulates
- Wipe down toppers on both sides
Check for Issues
During weekly cleaning, look for:
- Scratches or dings that need attention
- Loose hardware
- Changes in the finish (clouding, white marks, sticky spots)
- Wobbling or instability
Catching problems early makes them easier to fix.
Seasonal Care
Humidity Management
Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes. Extreme fluctuations cause problems: joints loosen, tops warp, finishes crack. Aim for consistent indoor humidity between 35-55%.
In dry seasons: Consider a humidifier, especially during winter heating season.
In humid seasons: Air conditioning and dehumidifiers help. Avoid placing the table near vents that blow directly on it.
Deep Cleaning
Every few months, do a more thorough cleaning:
- Remove all accessories and toppers
- Dust every surface, including underneath
- Clean with a dedicated wood cleaner (or mild soap solution, well-wrung)
- Dry completely with a soft cloth
- Apply appropriate conditioner if your finish calls for it
Finish Refresh
Depending on your table's finish type:
Hardwax oil finishes: May benefit from a maintenance coat every 1-2 years in high-use areas. Clean thoroughly, apply a thin coat of the same oil, and buff after drying.
Lacquer finishes: Generally don't need refreshing but should be cleaned with products designed for lacquered wood.
Unfinished or waxed wood: Needs more frequent attention. Wax every 3-6 months for protection.
Dealing with Damage
Water Marks
White water marks (from moisture trapped in the finish) can often be removed:
- Try mayonnaise or petroleum jelly: apply, leave overnight, wipe clean (oils help displace water)
- For stubborn marks, very fine steel wool (#0000) with paste wax can help, rubbing with the grain
- Severe marks may require professional refinishing
Scratches
Light scratches: Often hidden by furniture markers or touch-up pens in a matching color.
Medium scratches: May be minimized by applying finish (oil for oiled finishes, wax for waxed).
Deep scratches: Require filling, sanding, and refinishing. Consider professional help for visible areas.
Dents
Minor dents in solid wood can sometimes be raised by applying moisture and heat:
- Place a damp cloth over the dent
- Apply a warm iron for 10-30 seconds
- Steam helps wood fibers swell back
- Repeat carefully—this doesn't work on all finishes
Burns and Stains
Surface burns and chemical stains usually require sanding and refinishing. For valuable furniture, consult a professional restorer.
Playing Surface Care
Neoprene
- Vacuum gently with brush attachment
- Wipe with damp cloth for sticky spots
- Allow to dry completely before closing toppers
- Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing
Speed Cloth
- Brush or vacuum regularly
- Spot clean with mild detergent solution
- Consider professional cleaning for major stains
- Replace when worn—it's a consumable surface
Environmental Considerations
Sunlight
UV light fades and damages wood over time. If your table sits near windows:
- Use curtains or blinds during peak sun
- Consider UV-filtering window film
- Rotate the table occasionally for even aging
Temperature
Avoid placing your table:
- Next to heating vents or radiators
- In front of fireplaces
- In unconditioned spaces (garages, sunrooms)
Rapid temperature changes stress wood and finishes.
What to Avoid
- Silicone-based polishes: Create buildup that's hard to remove and interferes with refinishing
- All-purpose cleaners: Often too harsh for wood finishes
- Excessive water: Wood and water don't mix well
- Abrasive materials: No scrub pads, rough cloths, or powdered cleansers
- Dragging objects: Lift, don't slide, to prevent scratches
When to Call a Professional
Some issues warrant expert attention:
- Significant structural problems (loose joints, wobbling)
- Major finish damage requiring stripping and refinishing
- Deep scratches or gouges in visible areas
- Warping or cupping of the top
- Antique or high-value pieces requiring restoration
Professional furniture restorers have tools and expertise that yield better results than DIY attempts on serious damage.
The Bottom Line
Caring for a gaming table is simple: protect it from moisture and heat, clean gently, address damage early, and maintain the finish appropriately. These basic habits ensure your table remains beautiful and functional for decades of game nights.
Arcadian tables are finished with 0% VOC hardwax oil—a durable, food-safe finish that penetrates the wood and can be spot-repaired when needed. The finish protects against moisture and wear while preserving the natural beauty of solid oak. Learn about our finish.