Wooden furniture is a great addition to the interior decor of any home. Apart from the fact they elevate the aesthetics of the home, they are incredibly durable and, if maintained well, are family heirlooms to be handed down from generation to generation.
Unfortunately, dirt and grime can keep them from looking their best. So, you need to clean them adequately to maintain their looks.
In this article, we will provide you with tips for doing this effectively.
Let’s start!
How to clean wood furniture
Dust frequently
If you want your wood furniture to retain its aesthetic appeal, dust it frequently. If you fail to dust your furniture, it will accumulate and form a filmy layer, which will then scratch the surface of your furniture. You don’t want that.
By the way, the best way to dust your furniture is with a damp microfiber cloth, as it will trap and remove the dust instead of spreading it around as a duster would. When you are done, wipe off whatever moisture stays behind with a dry cloth.
Use mild cleaning agents
We recommend you use a mild soap – like dishwashing liquid – to remove blemishes and stubborn grime on your furniture. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture, wring it to get the water out, then gently scrub at the spot. By the way, test the mixture on an out-of-sight part of the furniture to confirm whether it’s safe to use or not. If the finish stays on after swabbing with the solution, then it’s safe.
Use black tea solution
If the soap and water mixture affect your furniture’s finish, try cleaning with a black tea solution. Brew 4 teabags in hot water. Then, when the tea is cold, dip a soft cloth or cotton swab in it. Wring out the moisture and wipe your wood furniture from top to bottom in the direction of the wood grain. When you’ve gotten some grime on the cloth, rinse in ordinary water. Then, dip in the black tea solution and continue cleaning.
When you are done, dry the furniture with a soft cloth. Then, leave for two hours before using.
Use mineral spirits
Another technique for ridding your wood furniture of stains and build-up is to use mineral spirits. Before you go all in, we recommend you test the solution on a hidden part of your furniture to find out if it’s safe. If the finish stays on after your application, you can proceed.
To clean your furniture, add a small volume of the spirit to a clean cloth. Then, wipe the furniture in the direction of the wood grain.
When using mineral spirits, take some safety measures. For example, ensure you work in an area with good ventilation. Also, wear gloves for protection.