Looking for a new way to finish your wood projects? Here’s our guide on how to use Howard Feed n Wax!
We love testing out different wood stains and wood sealants in an experimental way, so we are working on a big project, we don’t have to guess or risk not loving the final results.
And, we love sharing the results – so you don’t have to spend the time or money to test all of these products!
Today we’ll explore the incredible benefits and applications of Howard Feed-N-Wax, a popular product among beginner to intermediate level woodworkers and DIYers.
Whether you’re looking to rejuvenate old furniture or protect new woodwork, Howard Feed-N-Wax wood polish is a versatile solution that can enhance the beauty and longevity of your projects.
Let’s dive in to what makes it great – and when it’s not the best option!
What is Howard Feed-N-Wax?
Feed N Wax is a one-step wood conditioner, hydrator, polisher and protector made by brand Howard.
Wood conditioner is used to moisturize wood (like lotion on the skin) and is especially popular on antiques, since older wood tends to be drier.
Using a wood conditioner is a great way to preserve and extend the life span of wood furniture and products in general.
Feed n Wax consists of beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. I love the light, orange scent the orange gives it!
The natural ingredients that make it safe to use on a wide range of wood surfaces.
Feed n Wax has a gel texture and is applied with a cloth. It darkens the wood pretty significantly and leaves a slight sheen on the wood.
What Feed N Wax is NOT
Feed N Wax is NOT a wood finish. It does not protect your wood. It’s not a topcoat.
It can be used in conjunction with a topcoat, but will not do too much to protect your wood from moisture or physical damage.
Where to buy Feed N Wax
You can buy Feed N Wax at most hardware stores. Shop it:
Benefits of Using Howard Feed-N-Wax
A few of the reasons to use Feed N Wax include:
- Restores and enhances wood’s natural beauty by replenishing moisture.
- Adds a protective layer that guards against drying, cracking, and fading.
- Provides a soft luster and smooth finish for a professional touch.
- Easy to apply and suitable for various wood projects.
Preparation and Application of Feed-N-Wax
It’s important to prep properly when using any wood finish product.
Preparing Your Woodwork
Preparation is key when it comes to any type of wood finishing.
In general, you do not need to sand before applying Feed N Wax. However, it will have a hard time absorbing over any thick finishes and it is not intended to go over painted wood.
Assess the condition of the wood surface and identify any existing finishes.
Clean the wood using a mild wood cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove dirt and grime. You don’t want to seal any muck in place!
Sand the surface lightly if necessary to ensure a smooth application. I usually only sand when it’s a new project – not when doing touch ups down the line. Sanding just opens up the wood to make it more absorbent!
Applying Howard Feed-N-Wax
It is super easy to apply Feed N Wax using these simple steps:
- Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Use a lint-free cloth or a soft brush to apply the product evenly on the wood surface.
- Apply in small circles and/or in the direction of the wood grain.
- Work in small sections to ensure complete coverage.
- Allow the product to penetrate the wood for a few minutes before buffing off excess.
Buffing and Finishing: Buffing the Wood
Once you have let the finish absorb into the wood, it is time to buff off the excess.
The buffing process helps to distribute the product evenly and enhance the shine.
Use a clean, dry cloth to gently buff the wood surface in circular motions. I do not suggest using a paper towel as it tends to leave tiny bits of fluff behind.
Then, let fully dry before significantly handling.
Optional: Applying Additional Coats
If desired, apply a second or third coat of Feed-N-Wax for enhanced protection and a richer finish.
Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.
Extra coats will work to better protect your wood piece. I tend to use more coats on items that will get more handling or wear and tear compared to decorative items I usually only do 1 coat.
Tips and Tricks for Using Feed-N-Wax
Here are a few final reminders for best practices when working with Howard Feed N Wax!
- Store the product properly to maintain its consistency and effectiveness. This means keep it fully sealed and out of sunlight and extreme heat.
- Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the wood surface before applying it extensively. While it usually looks great, you definitely want to be sure you like how it looks on your specific wood before committing.
- Avoid applying Howard Feed-N-Wax on surfaces that will come into direct contact with food. This is not a food safe finish.
- Regularly reapply the product to maintain wood’s moisture balance and protection. Wood dries out over time, and this wax is not a forever finish!
FAQs about Howard Feed-N-Wax
Howard Feed-N-Wax is designed to condition and preserve wood. It replenishes moisture, adds a protective layer, and enhances the natural beauty of wood surfaces.
Yes, Howard Feed-N-Wax is safe to use on a wide range of wood surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, floors, and antiques. However, it is always recommended to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it all over.
The frequency of application depends on factors such as the condition of the wood, the level of exposure to sunlight and moisture, and personal preference. As a general guideline, it is recommended to apply Howard Feed-N-Wax every few months or as the wood begins to dry out.
Howard Feed-N-Wax is primarily designed for use on bare or unfinished wood surfaces. It is not recommended for use on painted or stained wood, as it may affect the appearance or performance of the paint or stain.
In most cases, sanding is not necessary before applying Howard Feed-N-Wax. However, if the wood surface has rough areas or imperfections, lightly sanding it can help achieve a smoother and more even finish.
While Howard Feed-N-Wax provides some level of protection, it is not specifically formulated for outdoor use. For outdoor woodwork, it is recommended to use a dedicated outdoor wood sealer or protector.
Howard Feed-N-Wax has a pleasant, natural citrus scent due to the inclusion of orange oil. The scent disappears as the product dries.
Yes, Howard Feed-N-Wax is suitable for use on antique wood furniture. It can help revive the luster and protect the wood, enhancing the beauty of antique pieces.
Yes, Howard Feed-N-Wax can be used on hardwood floors to nourish and protect the wood. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using excessive amounts of the product to prevent a slippery surface. It is also not necessarily the strongest most protective finish that I would choose for floors that get a lot of wear and tear.
Howard Feed-N-Wax is not a substitute for wood polish or furniture wax. It is primarily a conditioning and preservation product that enhances the natural beauty of wood. For additional shine and protection, it is recommended to use a dedicated furniture wax or polish after applying Howard Feed-N-Wax.
Any more questions about Howard Feed n Wax?
Looking for something?
We’ve been doing this since 2012 so we have a LOT of blog posts!
Search stuff like: Ceiling Projects | DIY Plant Stands | Thrift Flips
Hello, I’m Morgan, half of the creative force behind CharlestonCrafted.com! With a passion for DIY that dates back to 2012, I’ve transformed three homes and now I’m dedicated to helping others craft their dream spaces. Let’s turn your house into a home together!