How To Remove Water Stains From Wood Using Things You Already Own
Water stains on wood are a common annoyance, especially since they seem to appear out of nowhere a lot of the time. Whether it’s from a spilled drink, a leaky plant pot, or a forgotten coaster, water marks on wood are tough to deal with. But don’t worry, there’s no need to rush out and buy expensive cleaners or fancy wood treatments. You can tackle these stains using items you probably already have around the house. Here are a few examples.
1. Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise might seem like an odd solution, but it works wonders on water stains. The oils in the mayo help to loosen the moisture trapped in the wood, while the vinegar can break down any remaining residue. To use it, just rub a small amount onto the stained area with a soft cloth and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Afterward, wipe it away with a clean cloth, and you might be surprised by how much the stain lightens. This is a gentle, safe method for most wood finishes (though it can potentially darken untreated wood, so do a test spot first if you’re worried).
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is perfect for dealing with especially old, deep, or stubborn water stains. It’s mildly abrasive, which allows it to gently scrub away the stain without damaging the wood’s finish. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, apply this paste to the water stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently rub the area in a circular motion using a soft cloth. Wipe it clean, and you should see some noticeable improvement.
3. A Hair Dryer
Water stains can sometimes sit too deep in the wood to be easily removed. When this happens, a hair dryer can be a surprising solution. The heat helps to evaporate the trapped moisture. Hold the dryer a few inches above the stain and move it around slowly. The warmth will soften the moisture, and as it evaporates, the stain should begin to fade. Though be sure to use the lowest heat setting to avoid causing any damage to the wood’s surface.
4. Toothpaste
Toothpaste can also be a surprisingly effective solution for removing water stains on wood. Like baking soda, the mild abrasiveness of the toothpaste helps break down the stain without scratching the surface. Use a non-gel, white toothpaste and apply a small amount to a clean cloth. Gently rub it into the stained area, moving in circular motions, and after a few minutes, wipe it away with a damp cloth. This method works best for lighter, fresher stains.
5. An Iron
It may sound too simple to work, but an iron can help pull the moisture out of the wood. Place a clean, dry cloth over the water stain, then gently press an iron (on a low, steam setting) over the cloth for a few seconds. The heat from the iron will help draw the moisture up through the wood and into the cloth. Make sure to keep the iron moving to avoid burning the wood. After a few passes, check the stain’s progress. You should notice a significant improvement!
Related Articles
- All You Need is Olive Oil to Make Wood Shine
- Best Methods For Removing Hard Water Stains From Any Surface
- 5 Natural Wooden Utensils Deep Cleaning Methods
Water stains on wood don’t have to be the end of the world (or that piece of furniture, anyway). With a little creativity and a few common household items, you can often remove them without spending a dime on pricey cleaners or wood treatments. So next time you lift your glass to see a water stain left behind, don’t panic. Instead, reach for what you already have on hand, and give these easy techniques a try!
Daniel Mitchell
