If you have wood furniture, cabinets, or antique pieces that have lost their luster, Howard Feed-N-Wax might be exactly what you need. This wood polish and conditioner is designed to restore moisture, protect against drying and cracking, and bring out the natural beauty of the grain.
I’ve personally used it on my dining table, wooden chairs, and even an old dresser, and the results were impressive. The wood looked richer, felt smoother, and had a nice, natural sheen. If you want an easy and effective way to maintain and enhance your wood surfaces, this is a great choice.
What Makes Howard Feed-N-Wax Stand Out?
Howard Feed-N-Wax is more than just a wood polish; it is a deep-conditioning treatment designed to restore, protect, and enhance the natural beauty of wood surfaces. Unlike many surface-level polishes that offer a temporary shine, this product combines conditioning oils with beeswax and carnauba wax to nourish wood from within while adding a protective layer on the outside.
The conditioning oils penetrate deep into the wood, replenishing lost moisture and preventing cracking, drying, and fading. Meanwhile, the blend of natural waxes enhances the grain and provides a soft, satin-like finish without leaving a sticky or greasy residue.
Another standout feature is its versatility. Howard Feed-N-Wax works on both finished and unfinished wood, making it ideal for furniture, antiques, kitchen cabinets, doors, trim, and even musical instruments.
It is an excellent follow-up to Howard Restor-A-Finish, helping to maintain and extend the life of restored wood. The formula also contains orange oil, which not only adds a pleasant citrus scent but also helps lift light dirt and grime, making it an easy-to-use, all-in-one solution for wood care.
Compared to traditional polishes or waxes, Howard Feed-N-Wax requires minimal effort to apply. It spreads smoothly, absorbs well, and buffs to a natural luster that enhances the wood’s richness without an artificial gloss. For anyone looking for an effective, low-maintenance way to keep wood furniture looking its best, this product is a reliable and affordable choice that delivers lasting results.
Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Wood Looking Great
Keeping your wood furniture in top condition requires regular care and the right products. Start by dusting frequently with a soft, lint-free cloth or a microfiber duster to prevent dirt buildup, which can dull the surface over time. Avoid using paper towels or rough materials that can create tiny scratches.
When cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth and avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can strip away the natural oils in the wood. Instead, opt for a mild wood-safe cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a drop of dish soap for gentle cleaning.
To maintain the wood’s natural moisture and luster, apply Howard Feed-N-Wax every one to two months. Before applying, make sure the surface is clean and dry, then spread a thin layer with a soft cloth, letting it sit for at least 20 minutes before buffing it out.
This helps the conditioning oils penetrate while the wax adds a protective layer. Avoid placing wood furniture in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause fading and drying. If possible, use curtains or blinds to filter the light and keep humidity levels stable to prevent warping or cracking.
For spills, clean them up immediately with a dry or slightly damp cloth to prevent stains or water rings. Use coasters under drinks and placemats under hot dishes to protect against heat damage. Lastly, avoid dragging heavy objects across wood surfaces, as this can cause scratches. With these simple maintenance habits, your wood furniture will stay looking rich, smooth, and well-preserved for years.
How to Use Howard Feed-N-Wax for Best Results?
Using Howard Feed-N-Wax correctly can make a huge difference in how well it restores and protects your wood surfaces. Start by cleaning the wood thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, or any previous polish residue. A slightly damp cloth works well for this, but make sure the surface is completely dry before applying the wax. Shake the bottle well, then pour a small amount onto a soft cloth or directly onto the wood. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
Apply the wax using circular motions, ensuring even coverage while working it into the grain. Let it sit for at least 20 to 30 minutes to allow the conditioning oils to penetrate the wood. For extremely dry wood, leaving it on for up to an hour can provide even better results. After the waiting period, use a clean, dry cloth to buff the surface, removing any excess wax while enhancing the shine. The more you buff, the shinier and smoother the finish will be.
For best results, repeat this process every one to two months, or whenever the wood starts looking dull or dry. If you’re restoring very dry or aged wood, multiple applications may be needed to fully bring it back to life. Avoid using excessive amounts, as buildup can make the surface feel greasy. With regular use, Howard Feed-N-Wax will keep your wood surfaces looking rich, vibrant, and well-protected for years to come.
Pros and Cons of Howard Feed-N-Wax
Pros:
- Deep conditioning: The blend of natural oils penetrates the wood, restoring moisture and preventing cracks, fading, and drying.
- Protective wax layer: Beeswax and carnauba wax create a smooth, protective coating that helps prevent further damage and enhances durability.
- Easy application: Unlike hard paste waxes, this formula spreads effortlessly, absorbs quickly, and requires minimal buffing.
- Versatile use: Works on a variety of wood surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, antiques, doors, and trim, whether finished or unfinished.
- Enhances natural beauty: Brings out the depth of the wood grain, enriching color and making surfaces look fresh and vibrant.
- Pleasant citrus scent: The orange oil infusion leaves a light, fresh fragrance instead of a harsh chemical smell.
- No sticky or greasy residue: Unlike some polishes, it doesn’t leave a tacky film, making it comfortable to touch and use daily.
- Great for regular maintenance: Can be used every month or two to maintain and extend the life of wooden surfaces.
Cons:
- Requires frequent reapplication: To maintain its effects, you need to use it every one to two months, especially in dry environments.
- Not a heavy-duty sealer: While it conditions and protects, it doesn’t provide a hard, long-lasting finish like polyurethane or lacquer.
- Takes time for best results: If the wood is extremely dry, multiple applications may be needed before it fully restores its shine.
- Not food-safe: Contains petroleum distillates, making it unsuitable for cutting boards, butcher blocks, or other food-contact surfaces.
- Limited water resistance: While it adds a protective layer, it doesn’t make wood waterproof and won’t fully prevent water stains.
- Not ideal for rough or unfinished wood: On untreated, porous surfaces, it may require multiple coats to achieve noticeable improvements.
Also Read: My Thoughts On 15mm Vs. 21mm Polisher
Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Other Brands
- Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Old English Lemon Oil
Old English Lemon Oil is a good cleaner and conditioner, but it is not as long-lasting as Howard Feed-N-Wax. It is thinner and mainly helps remove dirt and fingerprints while adding a temporary shine. Howard Feed-N-Wax, on the other hand, deeply conditions the wood and provides a protective wax layer that helps maintain the finish over time. If you need something for quick touch-ups, Old English is fine, but for long-term wood care, Howard Feed-N-Wax is the better choice.
- Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Minwax Paste Finishing Wax
Minwax Paste Finishing Wax is a harder wax that provides a durable finish, but it requires more effort to apply. You have to rub it in, let it dry, and then buff it out, which can be time-consuming. Howard Feed-N-Wax is much easier to use and absorbs into the wood more effectively. Minwax is a good option if you want a strong, sealed finish, but Howard Feed-N-Wax is better for regular maintenance and conditioning.
- Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Weiman Wood Polish & Conditioner
Weiman Wood Polish & Conditioner is a liquid formula that provides a glossy finish but doesn’t offer as much deep conditioning. It’s good for newer furniture that just needs a shine boost, but it doesn’t do much for older, dried-out wood. Howard Feed-N-Wax penetrates deeper and restores moisture, making it a better option for wood that needs rejuvenation.
- Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Guardsman Revitalizing Wood Polish
Guardsman Revitalizing Wood Polish is more of a surface-level polish that helps remove dust and fingerprints but does not provide long-term conditioning. It is great for quick cleanups, but if your wood is starting to look dry or worn, Howard Feed-N-Wax will do a better job of restoring and protecting it.
- Howard Feed-N-Wax Vs. Daddy Van’s All-Natural Beeswax Polish
Daddy Van’s All-Natural Beeswax Polish is an all-natural option, but it is much thicker and harder to spread than Howard Feed-N-Wax. It works well for sealing and protecting wood but requires more effort to apply and buff. Howard Feed-N-Wax is smoother and easier to use while still providing excellent protection and conditioning.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Griots G9 Vs. Rupes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Howard Feed-N-Wax is used to condition, protect, and enhance wood surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, antiques, and trim. It helps prevent drying, cracking, and fading while adding a natural shine.
No, Howard Feed-N-Wax is not food safe. It contains petroleum distillates, which means it should not be used on cutting boards, butcher blocks, or surfaces that come into direct contact with food.
One disadvantage of a beeswax wood finish is that it can build up over time, leading to a dull or sticky residue if not properly buffed. It also does not provide as much long-term protection as synthetic sealers or polyurethane coatings.
To remove Howard Feed-N-Wax, use a soft cloth with mineral spirits or a mild wood cleaner. Rub the surface gently until the wax lifts off, then buff it dry with a clean cloth.
Final Thoughts
Howard Feed-N-Wax is a fantastic product for maintaining and restoring wood surfaces. It is easy to use, smells great, and delivers noticeable results almost immediately. Whether you are trying to restore an old piece of furniture or simply keep your wooden surfaces looking their best, this is a reliable and effective product. I have used it on everything from my dining table to antique wooden chairs, and each time, it has brought back the warmth and richness of the wood. If you want a simple yet powerful way to care for your wood furniture, Howard Feed-N-Wax is definitely worth it.
