Finishing a white oak staircase

[Mac]

Hello chaps,

I've just installed a white oak handrail, spindles etc on my staircase. I want to keep it as natural as I possibly can, but assume I need to finish it with something to help ensure it doesn't pick up too much dirt and so on from the many mucky little paws of my kids and wife (naturally my own paws are always clean). Do you have any suggestions about the best sort of thing I should use on it?

Thanks in advance.
Rick

 

[jvsteenb]

This might just be the right case for a soap finish... natural look, easily reapplied, beautiful ( well, at least in my book ).
It's used on some very nice Danish solid oak and ash design furniture. It's about as close as you can get to the natural "unfinished" look.
There may be better solutions though, perhaps some of the finishing experts will chime in.

Regards,

Job

 

[Mac]

Thanks for your input job, I appreciate it.  I'll give it a go, having never tried this finish before.

Merry christmas my friend.
Rick

 

[Mac]

In the end went with a bit of light danish oil, I gather it will be a bit harder wearing, and with two little ones and another on the way, this has to be a good thing!

Anyway, here it is!

 

[jvsteenb]

Nice work Rick!

I'm a sucker for Danish oil finishes myself - Rustin's Danish Oil is my go-to finish.
Soap-finishing is just very rewarding in furniture that you "handle", like armchairs and such - in my book it's the best to the touch. It's even more natural looking ( and feeling ) then lemon-oil. Oak and ash love it.
But Danish oil is certainly a bit more wear-resistant, and just a bit easier to clean.
Your staircase looks great, and the season's dressing just tops it off nicely  [smile]

Merry christmas to you and your loved ones!

Regards,

Job

 

[Neill]

Rick,

Great job my friend.  Looks like all those jobs around your home are keeping you very busy but you certainly seem to be up for the challenge.  [thumbs up]

Neill