How do I clean a wooden cabinet?

Dust the surfaces regularly with a dry cloth and apply a traditional beeswax polish occasionally to nourish the timber. Avoid using silicone-based sprays or harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the antique polished finish.

Can I use these for modern paper?

Many vintage filing cabinets and drawer banks accommodate modern paper sizes, though older specialised letter files suit smaller documents. Check the internal drawer dimensions carefully before planning to store standard modern folders.

Are metal and wooden versions heavy?

These cabinets are exceptionally heavy due to the dense hardwoods and structural iron used in their construction. Ensure you have adequate assistance when positioning the unit and protect delicate flooring beneath the base.

How do I date a cabinet?

Examine the construction methods, such as hand-cut dovetails, alongside the style of the brass handles and the type of secondary timber used. Patent stamps and labels inside the drawers also provide reliable chronological markers for specific periods.