A weak solution of vinegar diluted in water can be used to clean more thoroughly but only on polished undamaged wood.
Clean antique oak furniture.
If the mild soapy solution doesn t work you can use a stronger cleaning solution.
Quickly dry the area with a soft clean cloth.
Rotate the cloth frequently to avoid spreading the dirt it absorbs.
This is a common mistake.
Wipe down the entire piece of furniture making sure you get into the nooks and crannies.
Let the tea cool to room temperature take a soft cloth wring it out in the tea until it s damp and wash the wood.
If cleaning is necessary for example on a dining room table use a soft damp cloth or a clean chamois leather well wrung out.
The tannic acid from the tea is wonderful for maintaining wood.
Stay away from spots where the finish is chipped off or cracked to avoid wetting the wood and causing it to swell.
Instead brush the sponge lightly over the.
Whether or not repairs are necessary you should always begin a restoration project by cleaning the piece of furniture.
Mix a little bit of murphy s oil soap into some warm water according to the package directions lightly dampen a soft cloth in the solution then gently begin to wipe away the stuck on dust and dirt.
Wipe the wooden furniture clean with the soap and water.
Dust antique furniture regularly.
Steep two tea bags in boiling water.
Dip a soft cloth in the solution and wring it out to remove excess water.
Knowing how to clean old wood furniture that has decades old buildup of polish will help you revitalize an antique.
To prevent the buildup of grime dust your furniture regularly.
Rub the cloth lightly over the surface of the wood in a circular motion.
Let it dry preferably over night then buff with a soft cloth.
Mix water and dish soap in a bucket and use this solution to sponge down the entire piece of furniture.
Do not soak the wood.
Do not clean good furniture with water soap or oils.
When doing routine dusting in your home take a rag and dust off any debris built up on antique furniture.
Clean your furniture with a little white spirit turps to remove the vegetable oil.
Check for wax by running your fingernail along the wood.
Wash off grime and scuff marks with a sponge and then dry the wood with a rag.
Aim to get about 95 clean this way then switch over to using the furniture polish to get the rest of the dirt off.