Quality wood cabinet finishes that have been made to last, can, like good clothes, very quickly get a “used” appearance. Good things need looking after if they are to keep their quality. Due to its many properties, wood has always been a popular material for fine cabinetry the world over. Each tree is an individual, piece of nature, which, after being felled, keeps its own character in its strength, structure and sensitivity to light and moisture. Wood can also change its character with time. Moisture is the worst enemy of all wooden furniture, so all spilled liquids should be wiped away at once. Cabinets should be protected against heat, and also against wet or colored objects. Cabinet surfaces should be cleaned with a very mild soapy solution. The cloth should be soft and dampened with the soap solution. The surface should then be wiped down with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture. Other cleaning compounds exist but may contain alkaline reagents which will adversely affect the surface. Household polishes can be used on an infrequent basis. Products containing silicone are moisture and dirt resistant but may hinder future lacquering.