Visually inspect the table. Look for dirt, food and dust. If the table is glass, ensure there are no streaks present. Lightly brush the surface of the table with your hand to detect sticky areas.
Wipe the entire surface of the table with a clean, microfiber cloth. Check the cloth every few strokes for the presence of dirt. The presence of excessive dirt on the microfiber cloth is an indication that the table may need to be thoroughly cleaned.
Crawl underneath the table and check the underside for filth. Use a flashlight if you have trouble seeing. Wipe the underside with a microfiber cloth to detect dirt and grime.