How to Clean a Pine Table

Clean a pine table using a damp cloth without soap or cleaning fluids. If food or other material has become stuck to the surface, use a non-metallic scrub bad to remove it (3M Scotch-Brite pads are an excellent example).

Use a lint-free cloth to rub the wood with linseed oil. Apply a coat of furniture wax (not coating materials like Pledge) to protect the wood and prevent moisture or stains from permanently marking pine table surfaces.

Remove stains or using sandpaper. This will become necessary if a pine table is not been properly cared for or may be needed after years of heavy use. For best results, hand sand the surface using 60 grit sandpaper, then follow with a finer grain until the surface is as smooth as you wish.

Vacuum the area after sanding and wipe the table down with a damp (barely wet) lint-free cloth. If you are going to apply a wood stain, thoroughly wipe the table down with turpentine first.

Apply a new protective finish. Besides wood stain, your options include varnish or water-based polyurethane. Apply two to three coats of either with a paintbrush and allow to dry completely between coats. This usually takes six to eight hours. Polyurethane will provide the best protection but is difficult to remove or repair if damaged. Varnish is more susceptible to dents and scratches, but can be easily touched up. If you choose a wood stain or the natural surface, apply furniture wax to protect the surface after refinishing is completed.