How to Get Food Off Antique Wood Furniture

Antique wood furniture is a source of pride for many homeowners, particularly if the pieces are family heirlooms. When food spills land on a prized furniture item, even the sturdiest of pieces may not be able to stand up to scrubbing with chemicals commonly included in today's cleaning products. The trick to cleaning antiques is to remove oils and stains without harming the finish. For best results, start with a very mild cleaning solution.

Plastic spoon or dull knife
Liquid dishwashing soap
Soft cotton cloths
Mineral spirits or naphtha (for stubborn stains)
Protective gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Use a plastic spoon or dull knife to clean off solid food.
- 2
  Mix together several squirts of liquid dishwashing soap in 2 cups of lukewarm water.
- 3
  Dip a soft cloth into the cleaning solution. The cloth should be wet but not saturated.
- 4
  Gently rub at the stain, turning the cloth as you work to unused sections to avoid reapplying the stains. Avoid excessive scrubbing as rough handling can damage the finish.
- 5
  Dry the wood immediately with a clean dry cloth. Excess water may cause the wood to swell. If stains remain on the furniture, follow the next step.
- 6
  Put on gloves. Dip a soft cloth into mineral spirits or naphtha. Rub the stain gently until it is removed.

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