Care of the open pore wood trim

[tuckerdog1]

This is only the 2nd car I've owned with wood trim. The other had the wood coated in a clear, smooth coating. So when cleaning, it's pretty much just a wipe down. Not sure how to properly take care of this trim on the Genesis. Could be something as simple as Pledge. Nothing in the owner's manual. What have you been using?

Thanks,
Tuckerdog1

 

[Mark_888]

I wouldn't use Pledge as you will get a waxy buildup, and your life will be ruined.

For simple cleaning, I would use something like Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, which is a cleaner for real wood floors. You can get it at Walmart or Home Depot, etc. Should be in the home cleaning section, not auto section.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Bona-Swedish-Formula-Hardwood-Floor-Cleaner-22-oz/17046452

When using a cleaner, spray it on the cloth, not the wood surface, to avoid it getting into cracks or unintended areas.

Even though the wood shows the pores, it does have a shellac or poly low-gloss finish on it (not sure what they used). It's not raw wood.

 

[tuckerdog1]

Thanks Mark,

After cleaning, any suggestions about preservative, wax, protectant, etc.?

Tuckerdog1

 

[Mark_888]

Thanks Mark,

After cleaning, any suggestions about preservative, wax, protectant, etc.?

Tuckerdog1

I am pretty sure that it has a low-gloss lacquer or poly protective finish. So I don't think it needs anything. Putting wax on a finished wood is not a good idea, as it just attracts dirt that can eventually scratch the surface.

If it does have an oil finish without any clear top coat finish, then you can use Lemon oil, but if it has lacquer or poly on it (even low gloss kind), any kind of oil or wax will be a mistake. When your car gets a few years older, if the wood looks like it is drying out, only then maybe consider some kind of oil or wax to moisturize the wood.

 

[G-970683]

I have to say it the wood trim in my 2021 Genesis G90 Ultimate (which I REALLT like) does see to have a coating on it, in fact as I lightly rub a rag across it there are a couple spots that will grab the rag lightly almost like that part of the trim is like a root cut. I have used Linseed oil in the past of lots of wood products but not sure about what that may do?