How to Clean Antique Furniture

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When you purchase an antique, it will often have this musky odor and need to be clean to remove any residue and odor lingering. How to clean antique furniture is easier than you think, and more than likely, you already have the ingredients in your cabinet.

Finding an antique piece with character is always a great addition to your home decor. But what do you do when it is dirty & jas a musky smell? Here is an easy solution on how to Clean antique furniture.

I was gifted this beautiful icebox, and it needed a good cleaning. It had been stored in the basement for many years. Needless to say, it was dirty & had a musky smell.

I knew this icebox would be the perfect accent for my living room to use as a liquor cabinet. However, before I could get all my collection of liquor stored in the cabinet, it had to be cleaned first!

I wanted to use an all-natural cleaner for my antique wood to prevent any damage.

To make this easy cleaning solution, all you need is equal parts of dish soap, warm water & vinegar.

Before you start cleaning away, you will want to start in a small area, preferably the back of the antique furniture, with this easy home solution. Take a micro-fiber cloth and start in a small hidden area of your antique piece to ensure the solution will not damage or discolor your furniture.

Combine ingredients in a bowl, and take a micro-fiber towel & dip in the solution. Gently rub on your antique furniture.

Then, take a second cloth to dry the area you just cleaned with the solution. Repeat until your antique is clean. Now your antique furniture is ready for any residue.

Supplies you need for cleaning antique wood.

• Warm Water
• Vinegar
• Dish Detergent
• Microfiber Cloths

How to make the cleaning solution?

Mix 1/2 cup of warm water, vinegar, and dish soap in a bucket or bowl. 

*Depending on the size of your antique furniture, mix larger amounts in equal amounts.

Want your antique furniture piece to shine?

To give your antique a beautiful shine, all you have to do is mix equal parts of vinegar & olive oil! Then, rub in oil vigorously until the wood looks replenished and won’t soak up any more of the vinegar & olive oil mixture. Finally, use an extra micro-fiber cloth to rub off any excess oil and leave the antique furniture to dry overnight. Your antique will look amazing & preserved for future generations.

Can I use this solution for hardwood floors?

I have read that it isn’t really a good idea as it can cause damage to your wood floors. Therefore, I would be cautious in doing so!

How do you care for antique wood furniture?

All it takes is dusting regularly with a soft brush to maintain your antique furniture. Avoid wet cleaning your antique, especially if the antique wood is unfinished. If wet cleaning is necessary, use the cleaning solution mentioned above.

Can commercial polishes be used on Antiques?

Modern commercial polishes present solvents and silicones that can cause long-term damage to original finishes. In addition, they can leave a “bloom” of opaque whiteness that does not fade with traditional waxing.

What are the best cleaning cloths to use for cleaning antiques?

Micro-fiber clothes are best to use for cleaning your antiques. However, be mindful that even feather dusters can scratch your precious antiques. Also, never use sponges or rags that have a rough texture.

Until next time y’all!

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