Caring for Plywood
Over the years, if you feel your surfaces start to become dry and think they could use a freshen up, simply take 500 grit sandpaper and lightly sand the whole surface of your piece until it becomes paler and dusty, then apply the oil in a linear motion going with the direction of the grain. Immediately remove the excess and buff the surface with a tissue or cloth until it feels dry to the touch. Leave for 24 hours to fully dry before using the surface.
Try to avoid chemical sprays and wet cloths as any moisture, particularly if it's sprayed heavily and directly onto the surface, will lift the fibres of the wood and leave it feeling rough and dry. If you need to remove a recently created stain - a lightly damp cloth is ok. Otherwise maintain your pieces with dry cloths to remove dust.
General Upkeep
If fresh, blot or wipe the affected area to remove as much liquid as possible then leave to dry.
Once dry, using light circular motions, hand sand the affected area to remove the worst of the staining with 500 grit sandpaper. If the mark is deeper and not being removed by the sanding, use 240 grit with caution. Working the sandpaper in a randomised circular motion will avoid there being an obvious scour to the surface. When the mark is removed, go over the area with the 500 grit to soften any scratches left by the 240 grit.
Apply a small amount of oil and work it into the sanded area with a clean sponge, then immediately wipe dry with tissue, kitchen roll or a lint free cloth. Make sure to wipe off the excess quickly after applying so it doesn’t dry and become sticky. Leave for 24 hours to fully dry before using the surface.
Find further care information here.
