A problem that can face anyone with oak vanity units is keeping the wood free from water damage. The first thing you need to ensure is that all of the plumbing, pipes and joints are securely attached and that they do not drip or leak at all. This is one of the worst things that can happen to a wood vanity unit–leaking pipes can very quickly damage the wood, causing it to swell and crack. For this reason it is also important, if your sink vanity unit is not attached to the wall, that you do not jostle it or move it around too much as that can actually dislodge the pipes and cause them to leak.
Here are some suggestions on how to care for your oak vanity unit:
Water spills: Wipe up any water spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth. It is a good idea to keep one on hand so that you can take care of any spills as they happen. Watch out for water dripping down the front of the toilet vanity unit, while it may not technically be a ‘spill’ it can damage the wood just as quickly.
Clean with Soft Cloth: Even though the wood is quite hard, it can still become damaged if you clean the wood with a scouring pad, or brush. Using a soft cloth will ensure that the wood stays free from scratches and that the finish stays bright.
Polish With High Quality Wood Polish: This will keep your wood looking nice, and will also add a layer of protection against water drips or spills. It will also help to keep the unit clean. Do not use the popular furniture polishes that contain silicone as that will build up on the vanity and will cause the surface to go a yellow color, over time.
Purchase a ‘Touch Up’ Kit: You can fix any minor scratches or dents made in the doors or the sides of the unit yourself fairly easily. Some furniture shops that specialize in selling wood furniture also sell touch up kits. Buy one of these, and keep your oak bathroom vanity in tip top shape.
Remember, this is not a cheap vanity unit, so take good care of it. If you follow these simple guidelines, your bathroom vanity unit will stay in great condition, and will last you for a long while.
