How to Clean Wood Bannisters

Wooden bannisters are common in home staircases.

Wood bannisters provide a decorative flair to your staircase and they last for years if they are properly maintained. Bannisters are prone to getting dusty and they'll lose their luster if they are not cleaned. Wood is susceptible to water damage and excessive moisture results in discoloration and possible warping of the bannister. As a result, wood bannisters should be cleaned carefully with a minimal amount of water in the process.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• Liquid dish detergent
• Gum turpentine
• Boiled linseed oil
• Wood oil

Instructions

1. Dust the bannisters with a soft cloth. This removes any loose accumulation of dirt that has built up on the wood since the last cleaning.

2. Dip the corner of a rag into warm water mixed with a drop of dish detergent. Scrub at any stubborn stains in the wood with the corner of the rag so the soap removes them. Dry the bannister immediately with the rest of the rag to prevent any water damage to the bannister surface.

3. Mix 2 tbsp. of gum turpentine with 4 tbsp. of boiled linseed oil in a gallon of hot water and soak a rag in it. Run the rag over the bannister to further clean and coat the bannister, drying it with a rag when you're finished. Wear rubber gloves to prevent scalding from the water.

4. Wipe down the bannister with wood oil to give the wood a shine and to protect it against damage.

References

• Utah State University; Cleaning, Repairing and Reconditioning Wood Furniture; Carol Williams

Resources

• As Cleaned on TV: Wood Cleaner Tips