How to Restore Antique Wood Moulding

Mix a few drops of liquid dish detergent and 1 cup warm water together in a small container.

Dip a soft cloth into the soapy mixture and wring it out.

Wipe the damp cloth over the wood trim to remove surface dirt.

Dampen a soft cloth with mineral spirits and wipe it across the wood to remove built-up grime on the wood trim. Allow the spirits to soak through the grime (consult the product's packaging for recommended times) and then wipe the dirt and cleanser off with a second cloth.

Restore the luster to the wood trim by applying a coat of paste wax to it. Dip a soft cloth into the wax can to retrieve a small lump of wax and wrap the lump in the center of the cloth. The cloth serves as an applicator as you push the encased wax through it. Take care to work extra wax into any scratches to help hide them. Let the wax set until it begins to develop a haze, then wipe off the excess with a clean cloth. The amount of time before the wax becomes hazy depends on the type of wax and the thickness of the application. Buff the wood with the soft cloth. Repeat this process across the trim until you finish the project.