Preserve the Beauty. Protect the Craftsmanship.
Proper care helps maintain the rich character, smooth operation, and lasting usefulness of your Gerstner chest. Whether your chest is new, well-used, or already part of your family history, these care tips are designed to help it continue looking and working its best.
Daily Care
Everyday Care
- Dust the chest regularly with a soft microfiber or lint-free cloth.
- Wipe gently in the direction of the wood grain.
- Clean light dirt or smudges with gentle care and dry the surface thoroughly.
Drawer Performance
Smooth Drawer Operation
- For extra smooth drawer operation, apply a small amount of wax or paraffin to the outside of the drawer sides.
- Apply wax or paraffin to the drawer slide groove of each drawer as needed.
- Open and close drawers with steady, even pressure to help maintain proper alignment.
Wood Preservation
Wood Finish Care
- Light surface scratches and everyday marks can often be refreshed with proper finish care.
- Use Gerstner Finish Restorer and Preserver to help keep the chest clean, polished, and looking great./li>
- Apply finish care products with a soft cloth and work gently with the grain of the wood.
Environment
Controlled Humidity & Environment
- Use the chest in an area with controlled humidity whenever possible.
- Natural wood responds to changes in temperature and humidity by swelling or shrinking slightly.
- A stable indoor environment helps preserve drawer fit, panel alignment, and overall appearance.
- Keep the chest in a location where the wood can age gracefully over time.
Lids & Hardware
Front Lid & Moving Parts
- On chests with front lids, take extra care when opening the top.
- When the spring-loaded plunger pins pop up, the front lid is released and can move forward.
- Guide the front lid carefully as the chest is opened or closed.
Protection & Personalization
Protective Covers & Accessories
- A Gerstner high-quality, double-zippered deluxe cover can help keep dust and debris off the exterior of your chest.
- A personalized Gerstner nameplate adds a meaningful detail for chests that may become family heirlooms.
- The right accessories can help protect, personalize, and extend the life of your chest.
Natural Materials
The Natural Character of Wood
- Each Gerstner chest is made with natural wood that develops character over time.
- Small changes in color, tone, and grain appearance are part of the beauty of real wood.
- Seasonal changes may slightly affect drawer fit as the wood responds to its environment.
- With proper care, these natural characteristics become part of the chest’s lasting story.
Parts & Supplies
Need Restoration Supplies?
Find replacement felt, keys, locks, hardware, finish care products, protective covers, nameplates, and other items designed to help care for your Gerstner chest.
Factory Service
Interested in Factory Restoration?
For chests that need expert attention, Gerstner factory restoration services can help preserve the craftsmanship, appearance, and history of your chest.
More Room to Grow
Expanding Your Storage
If you run out of room in your chest, consider adding a matching Gerstner base or rolling unit to increase your storage capacity while maintaining a coordinated look.
Built to Be Used. Cared for. Passed Down.
A little regular care helps preserve the function, beauty, and story of your Gerstner chest for the next generation.