Again, the solvents necessary to extract mineral oil from wood are harsh enough to remove original finish and may even remove some of the wood's natural color. Most pump or spray polishes contain drying oils or, worse yet, pure silicone, which cannot be removed with any solvent known to science. Oil soaps contain detergents that may be too harsh for an aged, original finish, and they intentionally leave a film of drying oil. The best alternative to commercial furniture polishes is a good grade of paste wax . The best way to care for your furniture is to use common sense.
Hot skillets can soften a finish and char the wood.
Leaking potted plants can watermark the finish, permanently stain the wood, and cause the finish to separate from the wood. Insect-infested wood or dried arrangements can introduce powderpost beetles into your house and furniture. Regular use of paste wax will afford some protection against liquid spills and simplify removal of food spills. It should be noted that there is a great difference between modern finishes and earlier, original finishes. They also can be broken down by solutions with a high pH, such as ammonia.