Suitable Finish for Day Care Wood Furniture

[WoodKid]

I've been asked to refinish wooden day care furniture. Looking for recommendations on what type and brand of clear finish that can withstand daily cleaning with a water and bleach solution.
Thanks.

 

[Mike Davis]

I refinished a dinner table that was badly damaged by water glass marks, hot food dishes, and children abusing the surface. Nice oak table made by a major manufacturer but it had a cheap lacquer spray finish. I scraped it down to the wood, stained to match the skirt and legs which were still like new, then applied three coats of Min-Wax polyurethane. After 30 years of hard use by 4 children and 2 adults it still looks like new. After 30 days all clear finishes are food safe by US federal law. I still use poly when I need a lasting finish for indoor use.

 

[CharlieGator]

I agree with Mike!

 

[Hjanes]

Agree. Minwax Poly is tough and priced less than many other brands. Been using it for many years when I needed toughness.

 

[Graywolf]

I agree, poly will hold up very well and is safe once dried and cured.

 

[Dee2]

I think this is a tough nut to crack. Think of continuous skin contact. Friction, skin oils, etc. This application is much more severe than a dining table. We looked it a similar situation when I was doing community projects with students at ECU. Minwax Poly is no doubt a good start.