Spruce Up Your Wood

Easy indoor DIY jobs after a long, hard winter

Just as paintwork needs occasional freshening up, so does the wood around the home. Banisters, kitchen worktops and wooden furniture all benefit from oiling, varnishing, scratch removal and polishing - as appropriate. Just be sure to use the right product for the job.

Depending on how the wood is used and the finish required, choose between Danish Oil and varnish. The difference, according to woodcare specialist Rustins, is that Danish Oil soaks in and hardens below the surface while varnish provides a solid protection barrier on top.

Consequently, use Danish Oil for a water resistant finish that leaves the original texture and grain as nature intended - such as on worktops and chopping boards - safe in the knowledge that it is food safe and non toxic.

For chairs, toy boxes and other surfaces subject to wear and tear, clear varnish is the best choice, whether in gloss, satin or matt finish. The trick is to speed up the process by using a quick drying brand, like Rustins, which is touch dry in 20 minutes.

Spring is also a good time to revitalise polished furniture which has been subject to the effect of central heating and inevitable knocks over the winter. Rustins Scratch Cover will help mask surface blemishes before giving a genuine shine using Rustins’ new Premium Wax Polish.

Available at good DIY and hardware shops, Rustins’ specialist products are perfect for all these tasks. Prices are Danish Oil from £6.49 for 500ml, Quick Dry Varnish from £4.25 for 250ml, Scratch Cover from £2.30 for 125ml and Premium Wax Polish around £5.99 for 400ml.