You’ve invested in a piece of solid wood furniture that will last generations. Now the question is: how do you keep it looking as beautiful in 20 years as it does today?
The good news is that Rubio Monocoat, the finish we use on every Bark & Steel piece, makes wood care simpler, more natural, and more effective than traditional varnishes or lacquers. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is Rubio Monocoat?
Rubio Monocoat is a Belgian-made, plant-based wood finishing oil that bonds molecularly with the wood fibres in a single coat. Unlike varnish or lacquer, which sit on top of the wood and can peel, crack, or yellow over time, Rubio Monocoat becomes part of the wood itself.
The result is a finish that:
- Feels completely natural.. you feel the wood, not a coating
- Allows the wood to breathe and move naturally with humidity changes
- Is 0% VOC.. safe for your family and the environment
- Is repairable spot-by-spot, without having to refinish the entire piece
Day-to-Day Care
Dusting & Cleaning
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth or microfibre duster
- For spills, wipe immediately with a slightly damp cloth, then dry thoroughly
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or abrasive cloths, these can strip the finish
- For general cleaning, use Rubio Monocoat Soap diluted in water, it’s specifically formulated for Rubio-finished surfaces
Protecting the Surface
- Use coasters under glasses and cups — especially for hot drinks
- Use placemats or a table runner for dining tables
- Avoid placing rubber-backed items directly on the surface for extended periods — rubber can react with the finish
- Keep out of direct, prolonged sunlight where possible — UV exposure will cause the wood to silver over time (though this can be refreshed)
Annual Maintenance
Once a year or whenever the wood starts to look a little dry or dull — apply a coat of Rubio Monocoat Maintenance Oil. This refreshes the finish, nourishes the wood, and keeps it looking rich and vibrant.
How to Apply Maintenance Oil
- Clean the surface thoroughly with Rubio Monocoat Soap and allow to dry completely
- Apply a small amount of Maintenance Oil to a clean cloth
- Rub into the wood in the direction of the grain
- Buff off any excess with a clean, dry cloth
- Allow to cure for 24 hours before heavy use
That’s it. No sanding, no stripping, no professional refinishing required.
Dealing with Scratches & Marks
One of the greatest advantages of Rubio Monocoat is its repairability. Unlike varnish, which requires full stripping and refinishing to repair a scratch, Rubio Monocoat can be spot-repaired.
- Light scratches: Apply a small amount of Maintenance Oil to the affected area and buff in. Often this is enough to make the scratch disappear.
- Deeper scratches: Lightly sand the affected area with 180-grit sandpaper, clean away the dust, and apply a small amount of the original finish colour. Feather the edges and buff off excess.
And if you’re ever unsure about caring for your specific piece, get in touch — we’re always happy to help.