(Source: https://homeguidecorner.com/clean-wood-furniture-with-mineral-spirits/)

Note: When cleaning antique furniture, you need to use mild solvents like mineral spirits to avoid damaging the varnish.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials 

The acquisition of all cleaning supplies is the first step. Check the items on your list to see if you have them:

• Mineral spirit 

• Clean rag 

• Face mask (for indoor use) 

• Small container 

Also, before applying mineral spirits to the stain, cover the unaffected parts of your furniture. When working indoors, cover the floor with a large tarp.

Since spirits produce toxic fumes, don't forget your face mask. You should always use it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Step 2: Mineral spirits should be used to soak the rag

Pour some mineral spirits into a small container. The job can be done with stainless steel bowl or disposable Tupperware. Dip the rag in the spirit after that; Allow it to absorb it. Squeeze any excess liquid out of the rag after removing it.

Step 3: You should test the soaked rag on a small area to see if it works

Should you use mineral spirits to clean the wood surface? Try it out on a small area, preferably one that won't be noticed. The wood finish can be softer and easier to scratch with some high-grade spirits.

Therefore, just wipe a small area and wait a few minutes. If the finish after applying mineral spirits becomes dull or blotchy, stop using.

Step 4: Clean the stains 

The majority of DIYers believe that they must vigorously scrub the affected area with spirits. Avoid joining them.

Wood stains can be removed with just a light scrub. Mineral spirits are pretty good at removing stubborn stains. Additionally, move the rag in the direction of the wood grain rather than in a circular motion when cleaning.

The dirt should have finally vanished by now. While scrubbing, switch frequently to a clean section of the rag.

Step 5: Remove the stain 

You haven't finished cleaning yet. Clean the wood of any mineral spirit residue with water and a cloth. Clean once more using a clean section of the damp cloth.

How can I avoid making mistakes when cleaning wood?

The use of too much solution and water is a mistake because it can seep into the wood and cause damage. The surface of the wood can also be damaged by using a material that is extremely abrasive or scrubbing too hard. Finally, in order to prevent potential, irreversible damage to the wood, clean a test area in a hidden location prior to applying a product to the entire area.

What precautions should I take before cleaning wood?

Before using any solution to clean wood, always test it on a small area to make sure it won't harm the wood.

What should I do if none of the methods works?

Consider refinishing the wood to bring it back to its original shine if, despite using a variety of cleaning methods, it still looks dirty.

The application of mineral spirits is, in a nutshell, faster and simpler than any other method. Instead of refinishing, it might save you time and money for years! Give it a shot, and you'll see what happens!