How to Remove Stain from Wood

Accidents are inevitable, like spilling of paints, wine and food on your beautiful wooden furniture. But, you don't need to live with it. We will show you how to remove stain from wood and make your furniture look as good as new. Different types of stains require different methods of stain removal without damaging the wood. Some basic types of stains are water stains, oil stains, ink stains, paint stains and heat marks.

Removing Stains from Wood Floor

Wood flooring require high maintenance, but they can last for a long time with proper care. They look very beautiful if you take care to remove all stains and spillage. You can remove minor water stains and ink stains with the help of a fine steel wool. If you have spilled candle wax on your hardwood floor, then the best way to take it off is to cover the area with a plastic bag filled with ice cubes. Keep it on the wax spillage for five minutes and scrap it with a spoon. Rub the spot with a floor cleaner to remove all traces of wax. This method also works if there is chewing gum stuck on the floor or your kid has drawn on it with crayons. For white marks on your wooden floor, rub the spot with a mixture of lemon juice and cigarette ash. If you have spilled paint on your floor, do not panic. You can remove water and oil based paint with the help of mineral spirits. If the paint has dried up, apply a few drops of linseed oil to soften it and then gently remove it with a kitchen knife. For water stains, apply a fluoride based toothpaste on the mark and then gently rub it off with a clean, lint free cloth. Another method is to apply a mixture of baking soda with a little water on the stain. Let it sit for half an hour and rub it off with a clean cloth.

Removing Stains from Wood Furniture

Wooden furniture is very expensive and it takes a lot of effort and care to keep them looking as good as new and preserve its beauty and luster. Removing grease and watermarks from old furniture, particularly old ones are very difficult so it is important to get rid of any stains immediately. To remove white watermarks, apply a tablespoon of mayonnaise on a clean paper towel. Place this towel on the watermark and keep it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the paper towel and wipe off the mayonnaise. For ink stains combine oxalic acid with distilled water and apply on the marked area with the help of a dropper.

Sometimes scorch or burn marks are left in a wood table due to hot bowls or casseroles being placed on it. To remove these scorch marks, first you need to wash the table with a mild kitchen cleaner and wipe it dry. Then place a clean, thick cotton towel over the mark, and place an iron set on high. After a minute, remove the cotton towel to check if the stain is gone. If the stain is not completely removed, try this technique a few more times.

While attempting to remove any kind of stain, start with the gentlest of cleaning methods. If these do not work, then try stain removing products with strong chemicals. Make sure that you read all directions carefully, before you work with harsh cleaning products.