Staying toasty through the winter is great for people, but central heating creates a dry atmosphere that can wreak havoc on your fine wood furniture. We preserve our skin with moisturizers; doing the same for prized wood furnishings can add years to their lifetimes. Instead of conventional spray-on furniture polishes—which contain harmful chemicals and artificial scents that you inhale or absorb through your skin—try this all-natural version.

FURNITURE VINAIGRETTE

This furniture formula is so pure you could use it to dress your salad, yet it keeps furniture strong and supple without chemicals. The vinegar helps remove dirt from the wood. This recipe’s shelf life: six months to a year.

1/4 cup white distilled vinegar
3/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon natural lemon oil

1. Combine the ingredients in a bottle with a tight cap. Shake well before dispensing.
2. Pour a small amount on a clean, lint-free cotton cloth and apply to furniture. Rub with the grain until you’ve coated the surface well.
3. Allow to rest for at least 15 minutes. Rub off the residual oil with a fresh, lint-free cloth.

A guru of home style, Ken Hoyt has expertise ranging from entertaining to food to interior design. He’s the style expert for the weekly television show “Good Day Lifestyles” in Portland, Oregon, on which he provides viewers with insight on home decoration and trends. www.KenHoytStyle.com.