RH Raimund Haag – founder, who has been working with wood for over 25 years
It's the question we're asked most often in the showroom – and it's a good one. The short answer: no, as long as the finish is done properly.
The first layer seals the pores of the wood so that no liquid can get in. The second nourishes the fibres with natural oil. The third provides the surface protection. The result is a table that can handle olive oil, red wine and a glass left out overnight – as hundreds of customers who use theirs every day can confirm.
A soft, slightly damp cloth. No products containing alcohol, ammonia or scouring particles. Coloured liquids – wine, beetroot, turmeric – should be wiped up as soon as you notice them, not three hours later.
This is where an oil finish really comes into its own: the repair is local. Lightly sand the spot with a fine abrasive pad, wipe away the dust, apply a little oil and wipe off the excess after 20 minutes. You won't see a thing. With lacquer, the same repair would mean sanding back the whole tabletop.
Putting hot pans straight on the tabletop (use a trivet), cutting directly on the table and leaving wet metal objects on it overnight. That's all.
