How to Repair Stained Wooden Furniture

Water is an enemy to your wooden furniture, often leaving white water stains or rings when it strikes. If the water doesn't warp the wood, it's possible to fix this problem. You can get rid of this enemy once and for all with a homemade cleaning mixture that helps remove stains from wooden furniture. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area, because the fumes caused by these cleaning agents can be strong.

Things You'll Need

• Rag
• Mineral spirits
• Denatured alcohol

Instructions

1. Dip a rag in mineral spirits.

2. Wipe the rag over the stained area.

3. Wait five minutes to allow the spirits work. This cleaner will remove any water stains on your wooden furniture's wax coating without harming the finish underneath.

4. Dampen a clean cloth with denatured alcohol if the mineral spirits don't remove the stain.

5. Test it in a hidden area of your furniture first, because denatured alcohol can damage some finishes.

6. Rub your damp rag over the stained area, checking frequently to make sure you don't damage the finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Refinish your table if you can't remove the stain with mineral spirits or denatured alcohol.

• Before you try to repair stained wooden furniture, consult an antique dealer if you think your wooden furniture is valuable.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Remove Stains in Wood Furniture