Storing or using my antique table?

by Debbie
(Beecher, WI, USA)

My dilemma is simple...

I have a dining table that I know was an antique in my grandfathers attic over 35 years ago, before my parents were married. My mother got it from him as a wedding/housewarming gift. She had it professionally dipped/stripped. Then restained it all in a beautiful walnut colored finish. She had it for about 32 years, until it was handed down to me. I love the table, mostly for the family history behind it. I look forward to the day that I can give it to my son, with the stories and names in the family attached to it on a plaque under the table.

In the mean time, my husband and I are moving into our dream home, that unfortunately leaves no room for me to use the table. I'm left with either storing the table, or using it in the unfinished basement for my crafts.

I'm not sure how to store it properly in a basement so its protected and lasts. Or protecting it so I can use it down there and still have it be in good condition for our son.

Any advise or ideas would be most appreciated.

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Storing or using my antique table?

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Storing a table
by: Stephane

Hi Debbie,

The biggest enemy of wooden furniture is humidity/moist. And often a basement is not the driest place in the house!
I would suggest to place the table on top of another one (or something else) to prevent the feet touching the ground. If the floor gets wet, the feet will absorb the water and bye bye table!
Perfect situation would be if you could place the antique table (face down) on top of another table with a blanket or towel in between. You could also wrap the feet with cloths or towels. That way it will absorb moist.
However, unfortunately, you will have to check regularly. And clean the table with some furniture oil when it's affected by fungus. Humidity can also cause cracks so be careful and keep an eye on it.

Hope this helps.

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