How to Repair Acetone Damaged Wood

Acetone is a colorless liquid that is both manufactured and found naturally in several types of trees, volcanic gas and as a byproduct of a human’s fat breaking down. Many people come into contact with acetone in nail polish remover, as the substance quickly and effectively removes the polish from your nails and other surfaces. If left untreated, an acetone spill will eat through wood furniture’s finish, leaving behind a noticeable stain. Replace the finish correctly to mask the appearance of the acetone damage.

1 tbsp. liquid dish soap
4 cups warm water
Soft cloths
Wood fill-in stick
Lacquer or shellac
Natural-bristled paintbrush
Fine-grit sandpaper
Tack cloth
Furniture polish

Instructions

- 1
  Create a mixture of 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap and 4 cups of warm water. Stir the ingredients to create a sudsy mixture.
- 2
  Dampen a soft cloth with the mixture and wipe down the acetone-stained area. Allow the wood to dry completely before continuing.
- 3
  Color in the damaged area with a wood fill-in stick, available at home improvement or hardware stores. Rub the stick over the wood to restore the color, if necessary. Otherwise, move onto the next step.
- 4
  Cover the damaged wood with a thin layer of lacquer or shellac. Apply the product with a natural-bristled paintbrush and allow it to dry at least eight hours or overnight.
- 5
  Continue to cover the damaged area with the lacquer or shellac until it is flush with the surrounding wood. Depending on the damage’s extent, this could take several applications -- and days -- to complete.
- 6
  Allow the final coat of shellac or lacquer to dry for at least 24 hours before lightly sanding it flat with fine-grit sandpaper.
- 7
  Wipe away the sanding dust with a tack cloth and cover the area with furniture polish, according to the package directions.

Lozier Shelving Instructions

How to Make Puffy Style Cushions

Other Furniture