Care Intructions

WOOD CARE IN ACTION

The Difference Mineral Oil Makes

Natural wood can lose some of its richness over time. Proper conditioning helps deepen the color, bring out the grain and restore the natural character of the wood.

Natural Wonders USA medium cedar wood serving bowl with unique grain patterns and rustic finish. Perfect for fruit or salad.
Natural Wonders USA medium cedar wood serving bowl with unique grain patterns and rustic finish. Perfect for fruit or salad.
DRY & UNTREATED Before Conditioning
WITH MINERAL OIL Restored & Conditioned

Dry & Untreated

As natural wood dries, its color may appear lighter and the grain can look flatter and less pronounced.

With Mineral Oil

Conditioning with mineral oil helps deepen the natural color of the wood, enhance the grain and restore a smooth, rich appearance.

Wooden Bowls

Teak Bowls

Our teak bowls are suitable for both dry and moist foods, including:

  • Salads
  • Pasta
  • Fruits
  • Snacks
  • Other everyday foods

Cedar Bowls

We recommend cedar bowls primarily for dry foods, such as:

  • Bread
  • Crackers
  • Nuts
  • Fruit
  • Other dry snacks

Cedar can be more sensitive to prolonged moisture than teak, so we recommend avoiding extended contact with wet foods.

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Wash with mild to warm water.
  • Avoid extremely hot water when possible.
  • Hand washing is recommended. Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and moisture, including dishwasher cycles, to help preserve the natural wood over time.
  • Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals whenever possible, as they may dry the wood.
  • Always allow the bowl to dry completely after washing.
  • Apply food-safe mineral oil a few times per year, or whenever the wood begins to look dry.

Mineral oil helps condition the wood and maintain its natural appearance.

Furniture & Large Wood Pieces

Our teak furniture and larger wood pieces are designed for both indoor and outdoor use.

Outdoor exposure will naturally change the appearance of wood over time. Some customers prefer this weathered, aged look, while others prefer to maintain a newer appearance — both are perfectly acceptable.

Outdoor Care

  • Clean dirt and debris as needed.
  • A power washer can be used to clean outdoor pieces. Use moderate pressure and avoid overly aggressive cleaning.
  • Use mild cleaners whenever possible.
  • Allow the wood to dry completely after cleaning.
  • Apply mineral oil periodically to help condition the wood.

Harsh Weather

For prolonged periods of severe weather:

  • Cover the piece when possible.
  • Bring it indoors during winter when practical.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to heavy snow, ice, or extreme weather.

The level of maintenance is ultimately up to you. Some customers enjoy the naturally weathered appearance of outdoor wood, while others prefer to regularly maintain the original look.

Wood Sculptures & Decorative Pieces

Our wood sculptures, totems, and decorative pieces can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors.

For outdoor display:

  • Protect pieces from prolonged severe weather when possible.
  • Cover or bring them indoors during harsh winter conditions.
  • Clean away dirt and debris as needed.
  • Use mild to warm water rather than harsh chemicals.
  • Apply mineral oil periodically to help condition natural wood.

Some of our painted and sealed pieces have additional protection against the elements, but all natural wood will change gradually with outdoor exposure.

Acacia & Other Natural Woods

Acacia and our other natural wood products generally follow the same basic care principles:

  • Clean with mild to warm water.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals whenever possible.
  • Allow the wood to dry completely.
  • Apply mineral oil periodically when appropriate.
  • Protect outdoor pieces from prolonged severe weather.
Goat's Milk Soap

Our handmade goat's milk soaps can be used as a traditional bar of soap for:

  • Showers
  • Hand washing
  • Bathing
  • Everyday use

Make Your Soap Last Longer

We strongly recommend keeping your soap on a draining soap dish or soap scrubber.

This allows the bar to dry between uses and helps prevent unnecessary dissolving.

The result: a longer-lasting bar and a better overall experience.

The Beauty of Natural Wood

No two pieces are exactly alike — and that's the beauty of Natural Wonders.

Natural characteristics may include:

  • Unique wood grain
  • Variations in color and tone
  • Different shapes and textures
  • Knots and natural markings
  • Small cracks or splits
  • Minor splinters
  • Natural signs of aging

These characteristics are part of the natural character of the wood and do not mean the product is defective or less valuable.

Dimensions may also vary slightly from the measurements listed online due to the natural and handcrafted nature of our products.

Natural Variation vs. Damage

Small cracks, splits, splinters, grain variations, and changes in color are normal characteristics of natural wood.

Significant structural damage or unusually large cracks are not considered normal.

If you believe your item has experienced shipping damage or has an issue beyond normal natural variation, please contact us.

Sunlight, Humidity & Seasonal Changes

Natural wood responds to its environment.

Sunlight

Extended direct sunlight can gradually change the color of natural wood. This is a normal part of the aging process.

Humidity

Changes in humidity can cause wood to naturally expand and contract, which may contribute to small cracks or splits over time.

Winter & Severe Weather

For outdoor pieces, we recommend covering them or bringing them indoors during prolonged periods of harsh weather.

A Natural Product Is Meant to Change

At Natural Wonders, we believe the character of natural wood is part of the art.

Whether you prefer your piece looking freshly maintained or naturally weathered over time, the choice is yours.

If you ever have questions about caring for a specific product, contact us and we'll be happy to help.