Start with a proper dusting
Loose dust acts like sandpaper if you polish over it. Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft-bristle brush to clear dust from carved details and corners before applying anything wet.
Wipe down, don't soak
Dampen a cloth lightly with water, wring it out well, and wipe the surface. Solid sheesham can handle a light wipe, but standing water or a soaking-wet cloth can dull the polish and, over time, stress the joints.
Let it dry completely
Give the piece 15-20 minutes to air dry fully before applying polish. Polishing over a damp surface traps moisture under the new coat instead of sealing it.
Apply polish with the grain
Use a small amount of furniture wax or polish on a soft cotton cloth, applying it in the direction of the wood grain rather than in circles. A little goes further than you'd expect — a thin, even coat looks better than a thick one.
Buff and set a routine
Once the polish has been absorbed for a few minutes, buff lightly with a clean dry cloth for shine. Doing this every 3-4 months keeps the finish looking fresh between the full professional re-polishing sessions we recommend every 1-2 years.
