How to remove water stains from wooden surfaces
Oops! Someone carelessly left a cold drink on your beautiful wooden table – and didn’t use a coaster? Now you’re left with an unsightly and unpleasant ring on your table that you can’t seem to get rid of. Before you admit to falling into despair, read on for some simple yet effective methods by which you can remove water stains from your wooden tabletop once and for all.
Before you replace a countertop with a stain…
One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to water stains on wood is assuming that they need to completely replace or polish their wooden furniture because of a small water stain. Yes, these stains are unpleasant to look at and they can certainly ruin the look of your room. However, you should always exhaust all the ways to get rid of these stains before taking any drastic measures.
If you can’t look at the water ring because the stain is “cutting your eye”, that’s okay. Place a lamp, vase or other decorative items on the stain until you find the time to remove the stain from your wooden furniture.
It is also important to perform an inspection before using any of the following methods to get rid of water stains on wood furniture. This is especially important if you are working with antique wood or wood that has been pre-treated with varnish, paint, stain or other coating. You can perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area (such as the inside of a table leg) 24 hours in advance to make sure no new damage or discoloration occurs.
Ways to remove water stains from wood surfaces
There are a number of proven methods for removing water stains from most wood surfaces. We’ve selected a few of the easiest and most effective that we’ve found to be our favorite. And more than likely, you already have all the materials and/or ingredients you need. If not, you can find everything you need at the nearest grocery store.
Removing water stains with an iron
Keep in mind that this method works best if the water stain you are dealing with is relatively new. If the stain has remained on the wood surface for some time, you may be better off moving on to another method.
To try this method, you will need a clean microfiber cloth, a clean towel, and an iron with no water inside the tank. Start by wiping the wood with the microfiber cloth, otherwise food crumbs or other debris can dissolve into the wood and cause further contamination when exposed to heat.
Then lay a clean towel directly on the stain. On the maximum heat setting, run the iron over the towel for 5-10 seconds. The idea here is that the heat from the iron will vaporize the moisture from the wood. Lift the towel and see if the stain is gone, then repeat this process a few times if necessary.
If you still have a cup mark after following these steps, it’s time to move on to another method.
Method using baking soda
Another method worth trying is using baking soda to remove moisture that has penetrated the pores of the wood. We warn you right away that if you use this method – you will have to apply wax, varnish or polish to the surface of the wooden furniture afterward. This is due to the fact that baking soda is abrasive and therefore can remove the protective layer and expose the structure of the wood.
You will need a few microfiber cloths, baking soda and water to get started. When you’re done, you’ll also need some furniture wax or varnish to apply to the wood.
Start by mixing a small amount of baking soda and water until you have a thick paste. After applying this paste to a microfiber cloth, start rubbing the soiled area of the wood in smooth, circular motions. Follow the procedure for a few minutes until the stain is completely gone. While working, try to avoid clean areas of wood.
If you are satisfied with the result, simply wipe off the excess baking soda with another clean microfiber and apply furniture wax or varnish once the surface is completely dry.
Preventing Stains on Wood Furniture
Now that you’ve gotten rid of those pesky water stains from your wood furniture, there are a few preventative steps you can take to avoid future stains.
Install coasters
Often water stains on wooden furniture occur when a cold glass is placed on a wooden table without a protective coaster. Over time, condensation forms on the outside of the glass, which then drips down and penetrates the wood. To avoid these annoying water rings on wooden tables, make sure you have drink coasters designed for guests and family members.
Lay a tablecloth
Another option for protecting the wooden surfaces in your home is to simply place a tablecloth or bamboo mats over your wooden table. Many of these materials have a waterproof bottom layer to prevent moisture from seeping in. Tablecloths and napkins can also add a beautiful decorative touch to your cozy space.
Use a protective coating
If you have unfinished wooden furniture in your home, it will be more susceptible to water stains. You can take extra steps to protect wood surfaces throughout your home by applying a protective coating in the form of stain, paint, wax, or varnish. These products are usually fairly easy to apply (just make sure you apply in a well-ventilated area) and can add a layer of protection between wood surfaces and items that may be placed on them.
To get some extra help in keeping your home beautiful….
The next time you discover a water stain on your favorite wooden furniture, you already have a few ways on how to get rid of it. Need some extra help keeping your home beautiful? TivaCleaners cleaning company is always ready to help. Leave a request and expect the experts at your place.