French Polishing and Bespoke Furniture
A weak solution of vinegar diluted in water can be used to clean more thoroughly but only on polished, undamaged wood. After cleaning, wipe again with a clean cloth rinsed in clear water and dry immediately with absorbent paper or a soft dry cloth.
Start by wiping down your wood furniture with a barely damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and grime . You never want water to sit on the wood , so quickly wipe it down with another dry microfiber cloth. For regular dusting, a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth will do the trick.
Never use vegetable oils because they eventually turn rancid. I would NOT use Murphy’s Oil soap on antique furniture .
Scrub the wood down using soapy water or a combination of detergent, bleach, and water to clean the wood . Always remember to protect yourself with proper safety equipment from the fumes of the cleaner and any mold spores. If the wood isn’t cleaned the first time, don’t be afraid to restart the process.
Vinegar makes an excellent wood cleaner because it won’t damage wood finish or warp wood like other products do . Cleaning with vinegar is a green alternative to the sometimes toxic and expensive cleaners offered at the store.
Tung oil is one of the oldest finishes and one of the easiest to apply . Just rub it into the wood with a rag. When the wood begins to dry out after a few months, apply another coat.
Try mixing a weak solution of water and dish washing soap. Dip a soft cloth in the solution, wring it out and wipe the entire piece. You want a damp cloth, not a wet one. Don’t saturate the wood, and rinse your cloth often.
Mix 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of white toothpaste, and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Use your finger or a spoon to mix it well. Dip a sponge in the mixture and scrub down your cabinets . Rinse with a damp cloth until all residue is gone.
Rubbing alcohol (or vodka): If you want to know how to get sticker residue off plastic, wood , or glass, one of the most effective solvents that’s safe for most surfaces is rubbing alcohol. Vodka is a good substitute. Wet a paper towel or clean rag with rubbing alcohol, and rub the residue to lift it off .
By using Murphy’s Oil Soap , a trusted and tried product: Designed exclusively for cleaning hardwood, but Murphy’s Oil Soap turned out to be an effective tool for cleaning a lot of things. With 98% natural ingredients, Murphy’s oil soap is an ideal and effective non-toxic cleaner.
The key to realizing Murphy ® Oil Soap safety, in items like Original Formula, is to understand it is a concentrate that has to be diluted with warm water. The recommended dilution is 1/4 cup per gallon of water, but shoot for 1/2 cup per gallon of water for heavier cleanings or sturdier woods like oak or rosewood.
How Does It Work? Olive Oil. Olive oil shines, moisturizes, and protects wood. White Vinegar (or ACV) Vinegar cuts through the greasy, grimy, yuckiness that gets stuck to the table after meals. Lemon Juice. Vegetable Glycerin. Lavender Essential Oil.
Sealed wood and other furniture: Mix water and a little mild liquid dish detergent and spray onto furniture, then wipe with a damp cloth and dry with another clean, lint-free cloth. Dust oiled or untreated wood paneling with a vacuum cleaner’s soft brush attachment or a ceiling brush.
Making your own homemade cleaning solution is not only economical, but if you can use natural ingredients, it’s better for your wood floors. Mix 2 tablespoons white vinegar with 2 quarts warm water in a large cleaning bucket. Swish your mop into the mixture and wring it as dry as you can.