How Over-Oiling Your Wood Table Can Cause More Harm Than Good

When Good Intentions Go Too Far

It’s common to want the best for your wood tabletop — after all, it’s a centrepiece in your home. You might think that applying extra oil will make it richer, shinier, or better protected. But here’s the surprising truth: too much oil can actually damage your table rather than preserve it.

At TableCo.ca, we’ve seen beautiful walnut, oak, and ash tables lose their natural lustre simply because they were “over-cared for.”

The Science Behind Oil Finishes

Oil finishes are designed to penetrate the wood’s pores, protecting it from within. When applied properly, they enhance colour, resist moisture, and maintain that soft, natural glow.

However, when too much oil is added or it’s applied too frequently, it creates a sticky, dull buildup that clogs the pores of the wood. This can:

• Trap dust and grime, making your table harder to clean

• Discolor the surface with uneven patches or dark spots

• Attracts mould or mildew, especially in humid climates

• Prevent proper refinishing later on

In short, what starts as care can turn into damage.

How Often Should You Oil Your Table?

For most solid wood tables — like TableCo’s Live Edge Black Walnut Tabletop or Solid Oak — oiling once or twice a year is ideal. That’s it.
If your tabletop is used daily, you can lightly wipe it with a damp microfiber cloth and a mild wood-safe cleaner between oiling sessions.

Pro tip: If water beads up on the surface, your oil finish is still doing its job. There’s no need to reapply until that protection fades.

Signs You’ve Over-Oiled

If you’ve noticed that your table feels greasy, tacky, or dull, it may be overloaded with oil. The fix is simple:

1. Wipe the surface with a clean cloth dampened in mineral spirits to remove excess residue.

2. Let it dry for 24 hours.

3. Lightly sand with fine-grit paper and reapply a thin coat of oil only if necessary.

Remember, less is more when it comes to maintaining a hardwood surface

Final Thoughts

Your wood table doesn’t need constant attention — it just needs the right attention. Over-oiling often comes from wanting to protect what you love, but real protection lies in moderation and proper care.

A well-made table, like those crafted at TableCo.ca, is built to last decades with only minimal maintenance. Trust the craftsmanship, treat it gently, and let your tabletop age gracefully — naturally.