The Right Way to Clean Wood Furniture

While wood furniture adds a welcome rustic charm to any space it's in, it can lose its luster if it's not cleaned regularly. But cleaning wood with the wrong materials can lead to scratching, warping, staining, and lightening. To ensure these pieces maintain their timeless beauty, we're sharing our tips for cleaning wood furniture, including how to remove stains and sticky residue.

How Often to Clean Wood Furniture

In addition to routine weekly dusting, you should aim to clean and polish wood furniture about once a month. "This helps to ensure the longevity of the furniture piece and allows you to tend to any areas of concern before they become too problematic," says Melissa Poepping, the founder of The Chemical Free Home.

Materials to Avoid When Cleaning Wood Furniture

Using the wrong products when cleaning wood furniture can cause lightening, drying, or scratching of the surface. Generally, you should avoid using anything abrasive, acidic, or products with harsh chemicals. "This includes full-strength vinegar and isopropyl alcohol," says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations of Two Maids.

Additionally, while you can use water to clean wood furniture, too much moisture can warp the wood, lift the color, and even cause water stains, says Poepping.

How to Clean Wood Furniture

To clean wood furniture, you can use an all-purpose spray designed for wood or make a solution yourself, says Cohoon.

1. In a bowl, mix warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
2. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring it out so it's damp.
3. Wipe down the wood furniture, making sure to avoid getting it too wet.
4. Use a clean cloth to wipe dry, ensuring no water lingers.

How to Remove Stains From Wood Furniture

Different stains and different types of wood require different treatments. "Always test the method in an inconspicuous spot," says Cohoon.

• Heat stains: Place a towel over the stain and apply an iron on low heat to the towel and rub back and forth. Check the stain frequently to see if it is gone.
• Moisture stains: Denatured alcohol can be effective on stains caused by moisture. Apply the alcohol to a microfiber towel and rub the stain for a few minutes.
• Dark stains: Hydrogen peroxide can be used to remove darker stains from wood. Mix one part water with one part hydrogen peroxide. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution. Lay that on top of the wood stain for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the cloth and let the surface dry.

How to Remove Sticky Residue From Wood Furniture

Olive oil is a great way to remove any built up sticky residue on wood furniture, says Poepping.

1. Saturate a cotton swap with olive oil and apply it to the residue.
2. Use a blow dryer and carefully warm the area while using a soft dry cloth to wipe the area in the direction of the woodgrain until the residue has completely released. 
3. Dab the area with a clean cloth.
   

Tips for Maintaining Wood Furniture

Routine cleaning and conditioning is the best way to maintain the beauty of wood furniture. Protecting the furniture from direct sunlight, using coasters for beverages, and using tablecloths where applicable will also keep your wood furniture safe from any damage, says Poepping.

Additionally, you should aim to polish your wood furniture with a natural conditioner every six to eight weeks. "Avoid any polishers or conditioners with silicon as they can leave waxy residues that attract dust and make cleaning more difficult," says Cohoon.