Natural oils have been used for centuries to finish and protect wooden furniture. Rather than creating a sealed layer like synthetic varnishes, wood oils soak into the surface and harden within the fibres. They also keep the wood breathable, preventing cracking.
If you need a finish that’s durable, eco-friendly and easy to maintain, Natural wood oils are low in VOCs, and safe for use around children or sensitive spaces.
Why Use Oil on Wood Furniture
When you oil furniture, you get a natural look and feel that can’t be replicated with varnish. The finish is rich and enhances the texture of the wood.
Oils have many benefits, including:
- Moisture resistance that reduces swelling or cracking.
- Protection from stains and daily spills - perfect for surfaces like tables.
- A breathable finish that lets wood move with temperature and humidity
- Non toxic - gentle on the environment and your health.
- Beautiful finishes that enhance the natural beauty of wood grain.
An oiled surface can be revived easily with a light sanding and another coat, making it a practical option for anyone who prefers long-term care over short-term coatings.
Types of Natural Oils for Wood Furniture
Many types of natural oils are suitable for wooden furniture. Each has different qualities in appearance, drying time and durability, so the best choice depends on your project.
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is a natural, eco-friendly wood oil made from flaxseed. It’s been used to finish and protect wood for centuries. It gives furniture a deep, warm glow that highlights the grain. It does take longer to dry than other options and can darken slightly over time, it’s commonly used to refinish antique and heritage furniture pieces.
Modern eco formulations such as Auro 143 offer traditional protection with the benefit of modern formulations for ease of application and faster drying.
Tung Oil
Tung oil is formulated from the nuts of the tung tree and is a water repellent finish once cured. It creates a smooth satin surface that resists moisture, making it ideal for surfaces such as dining tables, kitchen worktops and outdoor furniture.
Auro 108 worktop oil has tung oil as its primary ingredient. It also contains linseed, sunflower, and castor oil. It’s blended with modern drying agents for easier application than traditionally formulated tung oils.
Danish Oil
Danish oil is a natural blend of oils and resins known for its ease of use. It’s much faster drying than linseed and tung oil, and dries to a gentle sheen that compliments modern furniture styles well.
It’s ease of application makes it a popular choice for beginners or quick maintenance jobs.
Hardwax Oil
Hardwax oil combines plant based oils such as linseed and sunflower with natural waxes. Modern hardwaxes also commonly contain linseed and tung oils mentioned above.
The result is a modern formulation that's easier to apply than traditionally prepared wood oils. This creates a hard wearing yet breathable surface that stands up well to everyday use. It leaves a subtle satin finish and is easier to maintain than varnish. Products like Auro 125 are popular eco choices for furniture, shelving and interior joinery.
Recommended Natural Oils for Wood Furniture
Auro 109 - Protective oil suitable for application to pre-oiled furniture and floors. This oil has a white pigment added to reduce colouring on pale woods. Dries to a silk gloss, formulated from purely natural oils. This oil also has a white pigmented version to reduce colouring on pale wood - Auro 109-90.
Auro 123 Hard Oil - Very well suited to wooden furniture as well as wooden floors and internal doors. High quality, solvent free, and easy to use. Offers excellent durability.
Auro 108 - This is labelled as worktop oil, but it is also suitable for furniture and solid wood kitchen fronts.
Preparing Wooden Furniture for Refinishing
Before you crack open that tin of oil, your wooden surface should be clean and smooth to ensure the best finish.
Remove dust and grease with a mild soap solution, then let the wood dry completely. Sand lightly with fine grit sandpaper to remove minor marks and open the surface.
If you’re planning on oiling a piece of furniture that’s previously been waxed, varnished or even painted - the old coating needs to be removed. A natural paint or varnish stripper such as Auro 461 or Home Strip will help make the job easier. Alternatively, you can sand back to bare timber.
How to Apply Oil to Wood Furniture
Once you’ve prepped your surface, you’re ready to bring your wood back to life again.
- Apply oil to wooden furniture in thin coats. Use a clean lint free cloth, brush or sponge to apply a small amount of oil, working in the direction of the grain.
- Let it soak. Allow the oil to absorb for 15–20 minutes, then wipe off any excess. Leaving too much on the surface can cause stickiness.
- Dry fully between coats. Each coat should dry completely before the next is applied. Depending on temperature and product, this can take 6–12 hours.
- Build up layers. Two to three coats are usually enough for furniture. Sand lightly between coats for a smoother finish.
Eco Friendly and Safe Wood Furniture Oils
Choosing natural wood oil means avoiding petrochemical solvents and synthetic resins. The oils stocked here at Greenshop Paints are made from renewable raw materials.
Many are certified for toy safety (EN 71-3) and approved for contact with food surfaces, giving peace of mind for use on kitchen tables or children’s furniture.
Common Questions About Natural Wood Oils
What is the difference between tung oil and Danish oil?
Tung oil is a pure natural oil that hardens within the wood fibres and provides excellent water resistance. Danish oil is a blended product that dries faster and gives a slightly glossier look.
How often should wooden furniture be oiled?
For indoor pieces, once every one to two years is usually enough. Outdoor furniture may need attention annually, particularly after winter.
Bring Out the Best in Your Wood, Naturally
Natural oils keep wooden furniture looking beautiful while supporting a healthy home environment. They protect without sealing the wood, enhance its natural tone and are simple to maintain. Whether you’re restoring a vintage find or caring for a modern oak table, an eco-friendly oil treatment is a lasting, sustainable choice.
Explore our full range of natural wood oils and treatments to find the right product for your next project.
Need advice on your next project? Contact us, and one of our friendly team of experts will be happy to help.
