Home Garden

How to Clean & Refinish Old Furniture

Cleaning and refinishing old furniture offers it a second chance. When old furniture becomes worn, faded or sustains surface damage, it sometimes finds its way to the curb. Instead of pitching it out with other household trash, it can be given a new life with a little cleanup and a new coat of finish. Always analyze the condition of the wood or fabric before beginning the project. If the wood is cracked, it will need to be repaired before starting the refinishing process.

Things You'll Need

  • Dish soap
  • Clean rags
  • Sand paper
  • Stain
  • Clear coat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dust away any excess dirt and dust from the furniture using a clean cloth.

    • 2

      Prepare a solution of 1 cup of water to 2 tsp. of dish washing detergent. Mix well.

    • 3

      Wipe down the entire piece of furniture using the solution and a clean rag. Avoid any gold plating or gold leaf decoration. Some of the old finish might remove with the solution.

    • 4

      Sand away the old finish. Hand sand the wood gently, taking off only the old finish of the wood.

    • 5

      Stain or paint the wood a clean cloth. Avoid any non-wood decorations. Begin with any fancy or decorative wood work. Allow to dry for 24 hours.

    • 6

      Apply a clear coat or lacquer to the stained area. This will help protect the new finish.