How to Repair Water Spots on Wood Furniture

Leaving a drinking glass on a wood surface causes water spots.

Leaving a drinking glass or other moist object on wood furniture can lead to an unsightly water spot, white ring or a cloudy section, thus marring an expensive item or even an heirloom. You do not have to give up, simply covering the spot with a decorative item or lace doily. You can actually repair it with minimal effort. Using a light abrasion technique will quickly remedy the problem without causing any damage.

Things You'll Need

• White toothpaste
• Soft cleaning cloths
• Steel wool (0000)
• Linseed oil
• Gum turpentine (mineral spirits)

Instructions

Toothpaste Method

1. Place a small amount of toothpaste onto a clean soft cloth or 0000 steel wool. Make sure the toothpaste is white, not the gel variety.

2. Rub the toothpaste into the surface along the grain of the wood until the water spot diminishes.

3. Wipe off any remaining residue with a clean section of the cloth.

4. Wax your wood surface with lemon furniture polish or furniture wax.

Linseed Oil Method

1. Mix three-quarters cup of boiled linseed oil with one-quarter cup of gum turpentine (mineral spirits) into a glass jar with a lid. You can find both these products at discount, home supply or hardware stores.

2. Pour a small amount of hot water into a separate jar or container. Add a small amount of the linseed oil-turpentine mixture and shake well.

3. Dip a corner of 0000 steel wool into the mixture.

4. Rub the steel wool gently in a back-and-forth fashion along the wood grain to remove the water spot.

5. Wipe off any excess oil with a dry cleaning cloth and polish with furniture polish with lemon oil or furniture wax.

Tips & Warnings

• Dust before attempting to remove a water spot.

References

• Utah State University: Cleaning, Repairing and Reconditioning Wood Furniture