How do I move a heavy oak wardrobe?

Start by checking if the piece separates. Many antique oak wardrobes lift off their drawer bases, whilst the main carcase might split in half vertically. Take the doors off if the hinges allow it. Removing the heavy oak panels takes a lot of weight out of the frame before you attempt to carry it.

Can I fit standard hangers inside?

Often you cannot. Early antique oak wardrobes were built before wide wire hangers existed, so the internal depth is sometimes quite shallow. Measure the inside clearance from the backboard to the closed door. You might need to use angled children's hangers or fold larger items on shelves instead.

I bought an old wardrobe recently and it has a very strong dusty smell inside the main section, how do I clean it?

Leave the doors wide open on a dry breezy day. The wood needs to breathe after being shut up. Wipe the boards with a barely damp cloth. Avoid soaking the bare oak.

My floors are quite uneven in the bedroom and the wardrobe doors seem to swing open by themselves when left unlatched, what should I do?

The carcase is leaning forward. Heavy oak furniture needs a level standing position, otherwise the structural frame twists and throws the hinges out of alignment. Slip a small wooden wedge or a folded piece of card under the front feet. Keep adjusting the packing until the piece stands upright and the doors sit square.

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Antique Oak Wardrobes

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Standing as substantial wooden storage cupboards, antique oak wardrobes feature panelled doors and internal hanging space built to keep clothes suspended away from damp walls.