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How to Clean Wood Furniture: Tips on Getting Your Wooden Furniture Looking New

When it comes to home décor, wood is a material that can give any room a cosy and warm feel. Wood furniture is not just aesthetically pleasing; it’s also durable and long-lasting. However, maintaining that clean and new look can be quite challenging. Natural wooden surfaces are prone to stains and scratches, so you need to take the right measures to maintain their appearance at all times.


Whether you own an antique oak table or a simple bench made from cedar planks, keeping your wooden furniture in top condition is imperative for its continued longevity. Luckily, there are many ways in which you can keep your wooden furniture looking as good as new without breaking the bank. Read on for our tips on how to clean wood furniture and keep it that way.

Identify the Type of Wood Furniture You Have

Before embarking on a cleaning spree, it’s important to identify the type of wood your furniture is made from. Different woods require different care and treatment; for instance, certain woods are more delicate than others and may require specialised cleaning products.


The most common types of wood furniture finishes include:


Wax: Wax is a popular choice for wood furniture as it gives the surface a soft and natural lustre. Wax is also quite easy to maintain; simply apply a new coat of paste wax every few months to keep the surface looking shiny and new.


Oil: Oil finishes are commonly used on outdoor furniture as they help protect the wood from moisture and UV damage. However, oil-finished furniture can be tricky to clean as it’s prone to smudges and fingerprints.


Varnish: Varnish is a clear finish that helps protect the wood while still allowing its natural grain to show through. Varnished surfaces are quite easy to clean; simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution.


Lacquer: Lacquer is a hard, glossy finish that is often used on high-end furniture. Lacquer is very durable and easy to clean; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution.


Paint: Painted wood furniture is quite common, especially in children’s bedrooms and nurseries. Painted furniture is easy to clean; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or mild cleaning product.


Once you’ve identified the type of finish on your wood furniture, you can move on to the next step: choosing the right cleaning products.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

When it comes to cleaning wood furniture, it’s important to use the right products; otherwise, you run the risk of damaging the surface. For instance, using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners will strip away the finish and leave the wood vulnerable to scratches and stains.


To avoid this, always opt for gentle and natural cleaning solutions. Some of the best cleaning products for wood furniture include:


Water: Water is the safest and most gentle way to clean wood furniture. Simply mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, then use a soft cloth to wipe down the surface. For tougher stains, you can add a bit of white vinegar to the solution.


Olive Oil: Using this is another safe and gentle way to clean wood furniture. Simply apply a small amount of this oil to a soft cloth, then use it to wipe down the wood surface.


Baking Soda: Baking soda is an effective way to remove tough stains from wood furniture. Simply make a paste out of baking soda and water, then use it to scrub away the wood stain.


Once you’ve chosen the right cleaning products, you’re ready to start cleaning.

General Maintenance and Cleaning Method for Wood Furniture

putting on gloves

To keep your wood furniture looking its best, it’s important to perform some general maintenance on a regular basis. This includes dusting, vacuuming, wiping down the surface with a damp microfiber cloth, and a lot more.

Dusting and Removing Cobwebs

Dusting is important as it helps remove dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of the wood. This is especially important if you have allergies or asthma. To remove dust from your wood furniture, simply use a soft cloth or feather duster to gently remove any build-up. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment.

Vacuuming to Remove Any Loose Dirt

Vacuuming is another effective way to remove dirt, dust, and debris from wood furniture. Simply use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to gently remove any build-up. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a small paintbrush or toothbrush to get rid of any stubborn dirt.

Remove Water Rings from Wooden Furniture

Water rings are a common problem, but they’re easy to fix. Simply rub the affected area with a bit of olive oil, then use a soft cloth to buff away any excess.

Fix Scratches in Wooden Furniture

Scratches are inevitable, but there are a few ways you can fix them. For light scratches, you can use a cotton swab dipped in olive oil or furniture polish. For deeper scratches, you can wipe the furniture and apply a small amount of wood putty to the affected area, and then use a putty knife to smooth it out. Once the putty is dry, sand it down until it’s flush with the rest of the surface and finish by applying a new coat of paste wax or polish.

Apply a Light Coat of Wood Polish

Apply a light coat of wood polish with a soft cloth, working in the direction of the wood grain. Polish helps to protect the wood and keeps it looking shiny and new. You can apply polish as often as you like; however, be sure to remove any excess with a soft cloth before it has a chance to dry.

Buff the Polish into the Wood

Buff the polish into the wood using circular motions. This will help to evenly distribute the polish and create a protective barrier.

How to Deep Clean Your Wood Furniture

wood furniture

There are a few different ways you can deep clean your wood furniture, but one of the easiest is to use vinegar and water as a gentle cleaning solution. Simply mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a bowl and use a soft cotton cloth to wipe down your furniture. You may need to use a little elbow grease to get rid of tough stains, but this solution is gentle enough to use on most types of wood furniture.


If you have dirty or greasy furniture, you may need to resort to using a stronger cleaning solution. You can make your own by mixing one part dish soap with two parts water. Again, just use a soft microfiber cloth to apply the mixture to your furniture and then rinse it off with clean water. Be sure to dry your furniture with a clean cloth or towel afterwards to prevent any water spots from forming.


With regular cleaning and proper care, your wooden furniture should last for many years. By following these simple tips, you can keep your furniture looking its best for years to come.

When to Hire Professionals

Even with regular cleaning and care, your wooden furniture may eventually need a little extra help. If you notice any major damage, such as cracks, warping, or discolouration, it’s best to hire a professional for repairs and cleaning. Additionally, if you have antique furniture, it’s always best to consult with a professional before attempting any type of cleaning or repair. They can advise you on the best course of action to take that will not damage your piece.


When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and contact a professional when dealing with wooden furniture maintenance. With their help, you can keep your furniture looking its best for many years to come.

Takeaway

Now that you know how to clean your wood furniture, you can give them the proper care they need even without the help of professionals. But of course, nothing beats hiring the experts to do the job for you.


Is your busy schedule preventing you from doing your cleaning at home? Looking for a Wollongong cleaning service?  Or perhaps Newcastle cleaning service? Get in touch, Elleishas Property Services team of cleaning professionals are here to give you a hand.

  • Visit Our Website

    I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.


    Ellieshas Property Services is a cleaning and maintenance company based in both Wollongong and Newcastle. We are also a registered NDIS provider. Visit our website to find out more about the cleaning services our team provides.  


    Visit Our Website


I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

Ellieshas Property Services is a cleaning and maintenance company based in both Wollongong and Newcastle. We are also a registered NDIS provider. Visit our website to find out more about the cleaning services our team provides. 

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