When you invest in a piece from Lost Mill Woodworking, you aren’t just buying furniture; you are adding a centerpiece to your home that is built to bridge generations. Our poker tables, arcade cabinets, and custom bars are handcrafted right here in Missouri using solid hardwoods designed to withstand the intensity of a high-stakes game night. However, because wood is a natural, living material, it requires a specific level of care to ensure it remains as stunning decades from now as it was the day it left our shop.
Understanding the art of upkeep is about more than just cleaning; it is about preserving the integrity of the wood and the specialized surfaces that make your game room unique.
Establishing a Routine for Solid Wood Preservation
The primary enemy of fine woodworking isn’t necessarily heavy use—it is the environment. Solid wood breathes, expanding and contracting with changes in humidity and temperature. To protect your table, try to maintain a consistent environment in your game room or “man cave.” Avoid placing your custom poker table or gun cabinet directly in front of heat vents or in the path of prolonged, direct sunlight, which can cause the wood to dry out or the finish to fade prematurely.
For daily maintenance, a simple dusting with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth is usually all that is required. Avoid using generic grocery-store furniture polishes or sprays that contain silicone or wax. Over time, these products can create a “smudgy” buildup that masks the natural grain of the wood and makes professional refinishing much more difficult down the road. If a deeper clean is needed, a slightly dampened cloth with a drop of mild soap followed immediately by a dry cloth is the safest approach.
Protecting the Playing Surface and Hardware
For many of our clients, the heart of their table is the custom-printed speed cloth. This specialized fabric is designed for the perfect slide of a card, but it can be sensitive to debris. We recommend using a soft-bristle upholstery brush to clear away dust or stray crumbs after a session. If a drink does spill, time is of the essence. Our stainless steel cup holders are designed to prevent these accidents, but if liquid hits the cloth, blot it immediately with a clean, dry towel—never rub, as this can push the liquid deeper into the fibers.
If your piece features brass or steel hardware, such as the accents on our custom bars or arcade machines, avoid harsh chemical cleaners. A quick wipe with a dry cloth is usually enough to remove oils from hands and keep the metal shining.
Longevity Through Mindful Use
The best way to care for a handcrafted piece is to use it as it was intended. While our tables are built for durability, using coasters for drinks and avoiding the use of sharp objects directly on the wood surfaces will prevent unnecessary scarring. If you have one of our Pro 10 tables, you know the expansive surface area is tempting for more than just cards. If you find yourself using your gaming table for multi-purpose tasks, consider a custom dining top to provide an extra layer of armor for the playing surface.
By following these simple preservation steps, you ensure that your Lost Mill Woodworking furniture remains a high-performance part of your home. If you ever have questions about the specific finish used on your custom build or need advice on a specific care product, our team in Jasper is always here to help.
