How To Clean Wood On Antique Furniture Without Damaging Patina

Patina is a unique surface quality that grows on an antique over time. Scratches, dents, spots where finish is rubbed away, a groove made in a rocker's arm from years of tapping from a knitting needle -- these things all combine to create patina, and cleaning and polishing it away will reduce the antique object's value. There's a difference between patina and dirt, however, and limited, gentle cleaning will protect patina and not destroy it.

Soft, lint-free cloths
Lemon oil (optional)
Carnuba wax (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Dust antique wood once a week, lightly, with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove surface dirt.
- 2
  Barely dampen another lint-free cloth with water. Wipe a small section of the wood surface gently to dislodge stubborn dirt. Follow immediately with a dry cloth, buffing it until it is fully dry before moving on to another section. Repeat until the entire surface is clean and dry.
- 3
  Use a light coating of lemon oil to moisturize and protect antique wood without destroying patina. Wipe it on one small area at a time and follow with another cloth, buffing until the wood glows. Do this once each winter, when humidity is the lowest and wood becomes dry.

How to Determine When Paint Is Too Old to Use?

How to Clean Moleskin Furniture

Furniture Care