How to Remove Grease Marks From Wood

A greasy spot on wood can penetrate the finish if it isn't treated quickly.

Spilled grease can leave permanent dark marks on wood furniture or wood surfaces unless treated correctly and promptly. The faster a the grease spot is addressed, the more likely you are to be able to remove the entire stain.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Measuring cup
• Bowl
• Vinegar
• Dish towel
• Cotton swabs
• Baking powder

Instructions

1. Remove excess grease from wood surface by padding down the spill with a paper towel or dish towel. Do not wipe, wiping will cause the grease to seep further into the wood.

2. Pour a 1/4 cup each of water and vinegar into a bowl. Quickly soak dish towel in mixture. For tough grease stains, warming the mixture in the microwaves can also help.

3. Pour pure vinegar straight on to the grease-stained wood surface.

4. Ring extra liquid out of the soaked dish towel. Clean up the vinegar with the dish towel. Do not wipe hard, pat dry the surface instead. Make sure to get grease out of small areas by using cotton swabs.

5. Apply baking powder or kitty litter over a larger mess and let it sit for a little bit before cleaning.

Tips & Warnings

• The faster the grease stain is treated, the more easier it will be to get rid of.

References

• Reader's Digest: 150 Plus Uses for Vinegar
• Mrs. Clean USA: Grease Stains on Wood Floors