I just notice the comment about cover the rungs..I have used mine for 7 years..I have never cover the rungs and have never had a problem...I just stain mine..I did not varnish it..I let the stain dry for a couple days..it has been fine..I do suggest u turn the quilts every few months..and keep them away from a sunny location..the window sun day after day well fade them..my friend found out the hard way..