Products designed and developed
in the United Kingdom
Oiling Wooden Furniture
Oiling is a simple way to keep your domli piece looking grounded, warm and well-cared for.
Whether you’re refreshing an existing finish or completing a sanded surface for the first time, the process is calm, methodical and deeply restorative for the timber. Some may even find it therapeutic!
This page walks you through both re-oiling and initial oiling, with clear guidance for Habiol and Osmo products.
Re-Oiling
With everyday use, solid wood can lose a little of its surface lustre. A simple re-oil refreshes and protects the surface, while keeping the character that develops naturally.
Oiling
If you’ve chosen a sanded, unfinished option, oiling will bring the wood to life—revealing depth, grain and tone while adding everyday protection.
Re-Oiling
an existing domli finish
Note: excludes premium range (no maintenance is required)
With everyday use, solid wood can lose a little of its surface lustre. A simple re-oil refreshes and protects the surface, while keeping the character that develops naturally.
When to re-oil
- The finish appears dull or dry
- Water no longer beads on the surface.
- You want to enrich the tone or revive sheen.
Light preparation
- Wipe the surface with a dry, lint-free cloth.
- If the grain feels raised or uneven, lightly sand with fine sandpaper (180–200 grit), then remove all dust with a lint-free cloth.
Using Habiol for Re-Oiling
Habiol is a natural, fast-absorbing oil that enhances warmth without adding a heavy finish.
- Apply a small amount of oil to a soft cloth.
- Work it into the wood in long, even movements following the grain.
- After a few minutes, wipe away any excess with an absorbent cloth and buff until the surface looks even, with no wet spots remaining.
- Allow the oil to sink in for 1–4 hours. Repeat as needed.
- After the last coat, leave the surface to dry fully until it is no longer tacky.
Important: oil-soaked cloths must be handled with care, as they can pose a risk of spontaneous combustion. Place them in a sealed steel container, or hang them to dry completely before disposing of them with your household waste.
Using Osmo (TopOil) for Re-Oiling
Osmo creates a durable, micro-porous finish designed for heavier-use pieces such as kitchen worktops.
- Apply a thin coat using a lint-free cloth or soft pad. Osmo performs best when used sparingly.
- Work it into the wood in long, even movements following the grain.
- Allow to dry for 8–10 hours with good ventilation.
- Apply a second thin coat, if needed, for added protection.
- Once fully dry, the surface can be used normally.
Oiling & Maintenance Products:
Oiling
your sanded domli piece for the first time
If you’ve chosen a sanded, unfinished option, oiling will bring the wood to life—revealing depth, grain and tone while adding everyday protection.
Preparation
- Ensure the surface is sanded smoothly to 180–200 grit.
- Remove all sanding dust with a lint-free cloth.
- We recommend testing a small area to check the final tone.
Using Habiol on Sanded Wood
Habiol leaves a natural, softly nourished finish ideal for a minimal, matte look.
- Apply a small amount of oil to a soft cloth.
- Work it into the wood in long, even movements following the grain.
- After a few minutes, wipe away any excess with an absorbent cloth and buff until the surface looks even, with no wet spots remaining.
- Allow the oil to sink in for 1–4 hours. Repeat as needed — we generally suggest 2–3 coats for balanced protection.
- After the last coat, leave the surface to dry fully until it is no longer tacky.
Using Osmo on Sanded Wood
Osmo provides a robust, hard-wearing finish while still feeling natural to the touch.
- Apply a thin coat using a lint-free cloth or soft pad. Osmo performs best when used sparingly.
- Work it into the wood in long, even movements following the grain.
- Allow to dry for 8–10 hours with good ventilation.
- Apply a second thin coat, if needed, for added protection.
- Once fully dry, the surface can be used normally.
Oiling & Maintenance Products:
Aftercare
Caring for your domli piece helps protect its natural character and keeps it looking its best for years to come. Each piece is crafted from solid wood, a living material that will subtly change and mature over time. With a little love and care, it will continue to age gracefully.
- Clean with a slightly damp cloth; avoid harsh sprays.
- Use coasters and soft pads under objects where possible.
- Re-oil annually or as needed—solid wood responds well to small, consistent acts of care.
- For stains or deeper wear, a light sand and re-oil will often restore the surface.
For full details on aftercare, visit our Product Care & Maintenance page.













