How to Use Ammonia to Clean Old Furniture

When choosing a method for cleaning old wood furniture, consider the type of finish as well as the type of stain. Clean most finishes with a mixture of gum turpentine, boiled linseed oil and water or a commercial oil soap. Avoid excessive water, which can warp the furniture or loosen the joints. Ammonia is slightly abrasive and cuts through grease quickly; however, it may discolor or cloud some finishes. Try it first on an inconspicuous area.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1 cup ammonia
• 1/4 cup washing soda
• 1 gallon hot water
• Bucket
• Sponge or clean cloths

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Mix the vinegar, ammonia, washing soda and hot water in a bucket. Dip a sponge or cloth in the solution and wring the cloth or sponge out well to remove excess water.

   • 2

     Scrub the surfaces of your wood furniture well to remove dirt and grime. This solution is safe to use on painted wood furniture. Apply it with care to stained, varnished and shellacked surfaces.

   • 3

     Wipe with a cloth dipped in clean water to rinse the solution and dry the furniture thoroughly with a clean cloth.