How To Clean Dirty Wood

(Source: https://wheresaintsgo.co.uk/blog/vintage-care-tips-how-to-clean-and-maintain-antique-wood-furniture-like-a-pro.html) 

Method 1. How to clean dirt wood with microfiber cloth

What you need

• Microfibre cloth

• Water

• White vinegar (optional)

• Dish detergent (optional)

• Wax

Clean dirt wood with microfiber cloth

It is the simplest thing to dust your wood furniture with a microfiber cloth. As you wash off your furniture, the split fibers of microfiber help to rapidly catch dust.

Before wiping grime off your wood furniture, moisten your microfiber towel with a little water. Water is a universal solvent that will help loosen and dissolve the dirt, while the microfiber will sweep it away. You don't want any water leftovers to damage your wood, so finish the process by wiping it off with a dry cloth.

Add a bit of detergent to your microfiber cloth to fully remove harder stains and grime from your wood furniture. A half-cup solution of distilled white vinegar, half-cup warm water, and a teaspoon of mild dish detergent will also work. To ensure that the combination does not harm the finish, try it in a small part of the wood first. Be careful with the quantity of water on your wood and wipe it away with a dry cloth.

When maintaining the finish of your wood furniture, avoid spraying it with polish. Instead, use furniture wax and a microfiber towel to clean your furniture. Wax will not only improve the appearance of your wood, but it will also provide a protective layer to your furniture, preventing scratches and smudges.

Method 2. How to clean dirt wood with vinegar

What you need

• Microfibre cloth

• Dry clean cloth

• Cheesecloth

• Vinegar

• Water

Clean dirt wood with vinegar

Vinegar is a safe and natural way to clean dirt off wood and is a trusted weapon of choice for many cleaning solutions.

First of all, wipe the whole surface with a wet and clean cloth that has been dipped in water to eliminate any dust residue. Combine one part white vinegar and one part water. If using essential oil, add it now. While vinegar is safe for many types of wood, it may be harmful to some wood treatments so remember to test on small areas. Continue to the following step if it does not harm the wood.

Next, dip a piece of clean cheesecloth into the mixture and dry it out to ensure there is no dropping. Rub the fabric in circular strokes, keeping the grain direction in mind. Then, wipe the surface with a clean, dry towel to absorb any moisture. If there are still marks, repeat the previous step.

Finish by buffing the whole surface of your furniture with a soft, clean cloth in circular motions.

What should you not clean wood with?

Avoid using pure ammonia, alkaline cleansers, or abrasive cleaners. They will dull or scrape the surface.

Can you deep clean wood?

Dirt, grease, and grime build up over time and are not entirely eliminated by dusting once a week. Use a wood floor mop and a wood floor cleaning solution diluted according to the package recommendations to deep clean hardwood floors.

How do you clean wood color?

Make a paste using baking soda and non-gel toothpaste. With a towel, rub the mixture into the wood until it feels warm. Dry promptly after wiping clean with a second moist towel.

The best methods for how to clean dirty wood safely is to use the fewest items, such as water and a microfiber towel. Using the appropriate materials in little amounts will keep your wood glossy for years to come!