How to Remove Paste Wax From Wood

Clean an old layer of hardened wax on the surface of hardwood furniture with a rag dampened with a mixture of non-alkaline soap and lukewarm water. Dislodge stubborn wax by gently rubbing the area with 0000 steel wool dipped into the cleaning mixture. Remove all traces of soap by wiping the surface down with a fresh rag dampened with clean water.

Vacuum and then damp mop your hardwood floor to remove all dust and grit from the surface before removing the old layer of paste wax.

Scrub the floor with a rag soaked in odorless mineral spirits. Work in 2-foot-square sections by wiping the rag back and forth with the grain. Rinse the rag and reload it with fresh mineral spirits often. Wipe the softened wax off the floor with a fresh rag before it dries. Loosen stubborn layers of paste wax with 0000 steel wool, but take care not to abrade the hardwood surface. Inspect the floor against the light after it has dried completely. Go over any shiny areas a second time if necessary.