How to Care for Your Live Edge Table

A guide from Live Edge Slabs of Ft. Lauderdale

A live edge table is more than furniture — it’s a one-of-a-kind piece of natural art. At Live Edge Slabs of Ft. Lauderdale, every table we craft for Florida homes and businesses is finished with a hand-rubbed natural oil that deepens over time, giving your piece a rich, lasting beauty. With the right care, your table will look stunning for decades.

Understanding the Curing Process

Your table’s natural oil finish takes 30 days to fully cure. During this time, the finish is still hardening, so it’s important to protect the surface. Natural highs and lows in the wood are completely normal and part of what makes live edge furniture unique. Over time, the natural oils from everyday hand contact will actually continue to condition and strengthen the finish.

The First 30 Days

For the first 30 days, keep moisture away from the surface. Use a tablecloth during meals and always use coasters under drinks. After the 30-day curing period, the finish becomes naturally water-resistant and you can enjoy the table normally.

Everyday Cleaning

Less is more when it comes to cleaning your live edge table. Follow these simple guidelines:

  • Use a dry rag for routine dusting
  • For spills or soiling, use a slightly damp rag and immediately wipe dry — only after the 30-day curing period
  • To disinfect, mix one capful (not a cup) of bleach into a gallon of water, wring out a rag, wipe the surface, and dry thoroughly with a cotton cloth
  • Never use Pledge, Behold, wax, Murphy’s Oil Soap, or any commercial cleaning product on your table — these can break down the natural oil finish

Reapplying the Finish Over Time

Depending on use and cleaning frequency, the oil finish may need to be refreshed over the years. We recommend Odie’s Oil, a natural wax finish that we use in our Ft. Lauderdale workshop. Here’s how to apply it:

  1. Stir Odie’s Oil vigorously before use
  2. Apply a small amount to a 12″ x 12″ section at a time using a white Scotch-Brite pad
  3. Work your way across the entire surface
  4. After 45 minutes, buff the full surface with a dry, pre-washed cotton towel — make sure it’s been laundered before use, not fresh out of the package

Enjoy Your Table for a Lifetime

A well-cared-for live edge table from Live Edge Slabs of Ft. Lauderdale will only get more beautiful with age. Whether it’s a dining table in your home, a conference table in your Florida office, or a statement piece in your living room, the natural character of the wood tells a story that’s uniquely yours.

Have questions about care or want to explore our current slab inventory? Visit our showroom and workshop in Ft. Lauderdale — we’d love to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a live edge table finish to cure?

The natural oil finish on your live edge table takes 30 days to fully cure. During this period, avoid any moisture on the surface and use a tablecloth and coasters for protection.

Can I use cleaning products on my live edge table?

No. Avoid all commercial cleaning products including Pledge, Behold, Murphy’s Oil Soap, and wax-based products. These can damage the natural oil finish. For routine cleaning, a dry rag is best. For soiling, use a slightly damp rag and dry immediately.

How do I disinfect a live edge table?

Mix one capful of bleach — not a full cup — into a gallon of water. Wring out a rag thoroughly, wipe the surface, and follow up immediately with a dry cotton cloth.

What oil should I use to refinish my live edge table?

We recommend Odie’s Oil, a natural wax finish used in our Ft. Lauderdale workshop. Apply it in small sections with a white Scotch-Brite pad, then buff after 45 minutes with a pre-washed cotton towel.

Where can I get my own live edge table in South Florida?

Visit the Live Edge Slabs Ft. Lauderdale showroom and workshop. Our team is happy to answer care questions, demonstrate maintenance, and help you find your next custom piece.

Will my live edge table change over time?

Yes, and that’s a good thing. Natural highs and lows in the wood surface are normal and part of the character of live edge furniture. With regular care, the finish deepens and the wood becomes even more beautiful with age.