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Honored Contributor
Posts: 9,861
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Cheap tip for cleaning and restoring wood finish.

I was in an antique store recently and the owner told me to clean my vintage bedroom set with a solution of equal parts olive oil and vinegar.  I honestly thought he was kidding, but I tried it.  I first cleaned my bedroom set thoroughly with Murphy's oil soap, then treated it with the olive oil and vinegar solution.  It looks better than it has in years.  It took a little buffing with a microfiber cloth to finish it off, but I'm extremely happy with the results.

 

It's a cheap option if you're looking to spruce up old wooden furniture.

 

 

~ house cat ~
Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,529
Registered: ‎03-12-2010

Re: Cheap tip for cleaning and restoring wood finish.

@house_cat 

Thanks for tip.  Question: is it white vinegar?

Honored Contributor
Posts: 9,861
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Cheap tip for cleaning and restoring wood finish.

@maximillian 

 

I used white vinegar.

~ house cat ~
Honored Contributor
Posts: 12,317
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Cheap tip for cleaning and restoring wood finish.

@house_cat   Did you think (after using the vinegar solution) that you needed to clean first with the Murphys Oil Soap?  

 

I am always looking for something 'new' to use on my antique pieces, but I really detest the smell of Murphy's Oil Soap.  If I could skip that step it would a plus for me.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 9,861
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Re: Cheap tip for cleaning and restoring wood finish.

@Mom2Dogs 

 

In my case, the dresser had been neglected for years, also moved and stored for a period of time. It needed a good cleaning. Otherwise, I'm sure the vinegar/oil would be sufficient on its own.

~ house cat ~