How to Care for Children’s Timber Toys & Furniture

Timber toys and furniture are beautiful, durable and safe for children when properly cared for. Regular maintenance helps keep the wood nourished, smooth, and protected from drying or cracking.

Using food-safe finishes is especially important for children’s items, as toys and furniture often come into contact with hands and mouths. Two excellent options are Gilly's Chopping Board Oil and Gilly's Food Safe Wax, which are both designed for surfaces used around food and children.

 

View Chopping Board Oil

View Food Safe Wax

 

Both products help maintain timber while being suitable for use on items such as toys, furniture, utensils and chopping boards.

Why Use Food-Safe Finishes?

 

Food-safe finishes are made from natural ingredients and are safe for surfaces that may come into contact with food or mouths. Products such as Food Safe Wax are made from natural waxes like beeswax and plant-based ingredients and are commonly used on chopping boards, wooden utensils, children’s toys and furniture.

 

Using these finishes helps:

  • Nourish and condition timber
  • Protect the wood from moisture
  • Maintain a smooth, natural feel
  • Keep children’s items safe and non-toxic

Oil or Wax – Which Should You Choose?

 

Both oil and wax are excellent options for maintaining timber toys and furniture. The choice usually comes down to personal preference and the type of finish you want.

 

Chopping Board Oil

Chopping Board Oil penetrates deep into the timber to nourish and condition the wood from within.

 

Best for:

  • Nourishing dry timber.
  • Enhancing the natural grain of the wood.
  • Frequently handled toys and furniture that may dry out more quickly.

 

Food Safe Wax

Food Safe Wax sits closer to the surface and creates a protective, polished finish.

 

Best for:

  • Adding a protective layer against scuffs and scratches.
  • Providing a soft sheen.
  • Helping repel moisture and dirt.

Using Oil and Wax Together (Recommended)

 

For the best long-term care, oil and wax can be used together.

 

Step 1 – Apply Chopping Board Oil
Apply a small amount of oil with a clean cloth, following the grain of the timber. Allow the oil to soak in and nourish the wood.

Step 2 – Let the Oil Dry
Allow the timber to absorb the oil fully before applying another finish.

Step 3 – Apply Food Safe Wax
Buff a small amount of wax onto the surface with a soft cloth. The wax helps seal the timber and adds an extra protective layer.

This two-product process nourishes the timber first and then protects it, helping toys and furniture stay in good condition for longer.

Simple Maintenance Tips

 

  • Wipe toys and furniture with a damp cloth to remove dirt.
  • Reapply oil or wax when the timber looks dry or dull.
  • Use thin, even coats for the best finish.
  • Buff wax gently to achieve a smooth, natural sheen.