Removing Grime From Antique Furniture

A dirty and tired finish can be easily refurbished by the do-it-yourselfer.

When looking for antiques, don’t pass up items just because of dirt and grime. Cleaning and rejuvenating a dirty, old surface doesn't usually require stripping and refinishing. Light soiling can be cleaned with a mild detergent and a damp rag. Heavier grime, such as old wax, fingerprints and grease, will need more specialized cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Oil soap
• 1 gallon of warm water
• Soft cloths
• Petroleum- and lanolin-based gel furniture cleaner
• Soft toothbrush

Instructions

1. Remove loose dust and dirt by wiping surfaces with a cloth slightly dampened with a solution of 1/4 cup oil soap diluted in 1 gallon of warm water. Repeat the process, changing the water as necessary, until all loose dirt is removed. Let it dry.

2. Wipe a thin coat of gel cleaner on a small surface area with a soft cloth, rubbing gently in a circular fashion. You will immediately see black or brown grime on the cloth.

3. Wipe the surface dry with another clean cloth.

4. Repeat the process one section at a time, redoing surfaces until you achieve the cleanliness desired. Carved details and crevices can be gently scrubbed with an old, soft toothbrush.

5. Wipe all surfaces with clean cloths until all gel and dirt are removed. Let the piece dry and then use a paste wax to restore shine, if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• The lanolin in gel cleaner rehydrates and adds shine to old wood surfaces, much like furniture oil polish.

• Antique furniture gel cleaner can be purchased at many antique stores. Petroleum- and lanolin-based hand cleaner -- the type used by auto mechanics -- is nearly identical and can be used as a substitute. Look for hand cleaner without pumice, which is abrasive.

• Use 0000 steel wool and gel cleaner to remove stubborn grime. Be gentle so as not to damage or remove the finish below the grime.

• Condition, especially that of original finishes, is crucial to the value of expensive, centuries-old pieces. Leave the cleaning of these fine antiques to professional restorers who know how to clean without altering the piece's originality.

References

• Murphy Oil Soap; How to Use
• Kotton Klenser