If you’ve ever looked at a scratched or dull piece of furniture and thought, “I really should sand this down and refinish it someday,” you’re not alone. But for many of us, someday never comes. Fortunately, there’s a quicker, easier, and more affordable solution: Howard’s Restor-A-Finish and Feed-N-Wax.

These two products, used in tandem, can breathe new life into tired wood surfaces without stripping, sanding, or the mess of a full refinishing job.

What Is Restor-A-Finish?

Restor-A-Finish is a wipe-on, wipe-off formula that blends out surface scratches, water marks, sun fade, and other minor blemishes on wood finishes. It comes in a range of wood tones—from Golden Oak to Ebony Brown—allowing you to match the product to the original finish of your furniture.

Unlike most products that sit on top of the wood, Restor-A-Finish penetrates into the existing finish and reconditions it from within. That means you’re not creating a new finish; you’re restoring the one that’s already there.

What About Feed-N-Wax?

Feed-N-Wax is a wood conditioner and protectant made from beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. After applying Restor-A-Finish, Feed-N-Wax helps seal in the restored look and gives the surface a soft, natural sheen. It also prevents future drying and cracking, keeping your furniture in better shape over time.

How to Use Them

1. Choose the right color of Restor-A-Finish. It doesn’t have to be exact—slightly lighter is better than too dark.
2. Apply with a soft cloth or 0000 steel wool. The steel wool can help with scratches and water rings, but use it gently and only in the direction of the grain.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes. Then wipe off the excess with a clean cloth.
4. Wait at least 30 minutes, then apply Feed-N-Wax. Use a soft cloth and rub it in thoroughly.
5. Let the wax absorb for 20 minutes or so, then buff off the excess for a smooth finish.

When to Use This Method

This approach is perfect for vintage pieces, flea market finds, or even just older furniture that’s showing its age. It’s also a great first step before committing to a more intensive refinishing project—you might find that you don’t need one at all.

Final Thoughts

Restor-A-Finish and Feed-N-Wax are like first aid for your furniture. They won’t make a broken piece new again, but they’ll absolutely brighten up surfaces that are scratched, dull, or just tired. Best of all, it takes less than an hour, requires no special skills, and costs a fraction of what professional refinishing would.

So before you sand, strip, or toss that old dresser, give Howard a try. You might be surprised by how much beauty is still hiding just beneath the surface.