How to Darken Oiled Oak

Use 00-grade steel wool to remove any residue on the oiled oak, such as stains in the finish or dried-on spills. Dust any detail areas, including grooves, carving or the edges of hardware with an old toothbrush, or other small brush, to remove any soil or build up that could interfere with oiling the oak.

Clean the oiled oak with wood soap. For example, mix 1 tablespoon of wood soap with two gallons of warm water and mop an oiled wood floor, or add 1 teaspoon of wood soap to 1 quart of warm water to clean oiled oak furniture. Wash all of the finished surfaces with a damp rag. Wring out the rag to use as little moisture as possible.

Wipe the oiled wood with a rag wrung out in plain water to rinse away any soap residue. Rub the wood with a dry rag to remove surface moisture. Dry a floor with a clean dust mop or allow it to air dry for at least an hour.

Apply oil or refinishing oil to the oiled wood, covering all the finished areas of the wood with a thin layer of the oil. Use refinishing oil sparingly. A quarter-sized amount rubbed into the wood in the direction of the grain darkens the oak. Apply the oil on a small section of the wood at a time, such as an area the length of your hand on furniture or a counter, or a foot on a floor, to ensure an even finish.

Reapply the oil to increase the darkening effect., if desired. Squeezing a small amount of oil or refinishing oil on a mop head speeds up the job of applying it to an oiled oak floor.