How to Clean Cherry Furniture

Clean cherry wood furniture with simple household supplies.

Cherry wood furniture is recognized for its rich red hue and smooth finish. Unlike other hardwoods, cherry wood's distinctive color enhances with age. Cherry wood is not, however, impervious to accumulated dirt, dust and grime. Abrasive grit particles can scratch cherry wood and eventually make beautiful furniture pieces appear dingy. As with all hardwood furniture, cherry wood furniture requires frequent cleaning to remove buildup and preserve its elegant appearance. Using proper cleaning techniques ensures that cherry wood furniture lasts many years.

Things You'll Need

• Feather duster
• Mild non-alkaline soap
• Bowl
• Microfiber rag
• Terry cloth towel

Instructions

1. Remove all lint and dust from the furniture using a feather duster.

2. Create a solution of mild non-alkaline soap and warm water in a bowl. Read the soap bottle's label to determine the ratio of soap to water. Thoroughly mix the soapy solution.

3. Dampen a microfiber rag in the soapy solution. Twist the rag to release excess solution.

4. Wipe the barely moist rag over the wood to remove oil buildup, grime and smudges. Follow the wood grain as you wipe the furniture.

5. Dry and polish the wood with a terry cloth towel. It is not necessary to rinse off the soap. Using circular motions, rub the towel over the furniture until the wood shines.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute a dry microfiber rag for the feather duster.

• Excess moisture warps cherry wood furniture.

• Harsh detergents, bleach and ammonia-based cleaning solutions can damage cherry wood furniture.

• Test the soap solution on a small, unnoticeable portion of the furniture to prevent discoloring the wood.

References

• Guide 4 Home: Cherry Bedroom Furniture
• Home Furnish: Wood Furniture Care