Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500265
06/24/03
Cleaning Oil Finish Wood Furniture
To clean oiled wood, use a solution of 1 cup boiled
linseed oil, 1 cup turpentine, and 1/3 cup white vinegar.
Turpentine is flammable so do not use around flame or
spark; do not get on skin; do not breathe fumes. Wipe the
surface with a soft cloth that has been dipped in the
cleaning solution. Never pour the solution directly onto
the wood. Let the solution stand for a few minutes to
loosen the soil; then wipe off the excess. All excess oil
must be removed or it will attract dust and get sticky.
To finish, rub with the grain.
DO NOT USE wax or furniture polish on an oil finish.
Re-oil yearly with boiled linseed oil, tung oil, or a
product recommended by the manufacturer. These oils
harden when exposed to air and seal the wood. Never use
non-drying oils like mineral oil for wood finishes for
furniture. Avoid using an oil dressing too often or too
liberally as it will cause a hardened oil build-up. If
this happens, use mineral spirits (paint thinner) to
dissolve the residue.
CAUTION: When using mineral spirits or other
solvents, follow all label directions and warning. They
are flammable, so don't use near flame or spark or pilot
light, and don't smoke. Wear rubber gloves to protect
your hands, and dispose of them afterward or wash with
hot suds and let them air dry thoroughly before storing.
Work in well-ventilated room and avoid breathing fumes.
Air-dry cloths used to evaporate solvent before
disposing.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from the North Dakota
Extension bulletin Surface vs Stain Care of Kitchens.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .