Reclaimed wood tables add a unique aesthetic to a home. Designed with a naturally distressed look, they provide rustic charm to any kitchen, living, or dining space.
Because reclaimed wood has been recycled and repurposed, such tables need special care and treatment to stay looking their best.
Learn how to clean reclaimed wood tables in this expert guide.
How Do You Clean a Reclaimed Wood Table?
Cleaning reclaimed wood tables should be approached carefully depending on how the wood has been finished. Reclaimed wood tables can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive household cleaner. Never use a scourer or a harsh cleaning agent on a reclaimed wood table.
Here’s how to clean untreated reclaimed wood:
- Mix equal parts water, olive oil, and white vinegar in a tub
- Gently wipe the table with a soft cloth
- Use a clean cloth to dry the table or let air dry
If the wood table is treated, it can be cleaned as follows:
- Spray a household cleaner over the table
- Wipe clean with a soft cloth
- Buff and dry with a clean cloth
What is the Best Cleaner For Reclaimed Wood Tables?
Use a mixture of equal parts of water, olive oil, and white vinegar to clean unfinished reclaimed wood. If the reclaimed wood table has been treated (with polyurethane or shellac), use a gentle furniture cleaner and a soft cloth.
Should there be a grime build up on the table, use a cleaner with a soft brush. Don’t use any abrasive sponges or cleaning products on reclaimed wood. These can remove the protective finish.
Our reclaimed wood tables undergo an extensive 21-day treatment process. Every table is finished with water-based polyurethane to provide maximum protection.
This ensures your table is protected against scratches and the finish is durable against water stains, cleaning agents, and UV rays.
How Do You Take Care of Reclaimed Wood?
Choosing reclaimed wood is a popular home décor trend for modern-classic homes. Regardless of whether the wood is used for a ceiling beam or coffee table, it should be treated and cared for properly to keep it looking its best.
When taking care of reclaimed wood:
- DO use placemats and coasters – To prevent water or heat ring marks
- DO wipe away spills quickly – To avoid staining and discoloration
- DO place a pad beneath the table before writing with a ballpoint pen – To prevent the ink or pressure from seeping through to the table
To protect reclaimed wood tables:
- DON’T use abrasive cleaning agents (like bleach, baking soda, pastes, etc.) – As these can damage and/or remove the finish
- DON’T use furniture polish that contains silicone – To prevent build-ups of grime and/or polish that are hard to remove
- DON’T leave water resting on the surface for long periods – As this can cause ring marks and weaken the wood structure over time
- DON’T keep in direct sunlight – Too many UV rays can cause the finish to discolor and the table to warp
What Do You Clean an Old Wood Table With?
Cleaning an old wood table, especially reclaimed wood, must be done with care. Never use an abrasive sponge or cleaning agent.
These can scrub away the protective finish and burn the table. While this is fixable with re-sanding and staining, it’s a lengthy process that should be avoided unless absolutely necessary to prevent the table from thinning over time.
To avoid damaging an old wood table, clean it with a non-abrasive wood cleaner and a soft rag. Apply a small amount to the cloth and gently wipe the table in small circles to prevent scuff marks.
How Do You Remove Grime From a Wood Table?
To remove a thick build-up of grime on an old wood table, use white spirit. Only apply white spirit to the rag (not the table) and rub gently in small circles. Work quickly, as white spirit evaporates quickly.
A special wood cleaner or a mix of equal parts water, white vinegar, and olive oil can also be used to clean an old wood table without damaging its sheen or finish.
Do You Need to Clean Reclaimed Wood?
Yes, reclaimed wood should be cleaned before it is stained, sealed, or finished with any type of sealant (like shellac, polyurethane, wax, or varnish).
Any household item made from reclaimed wood should also be cleaned at least once a month with a special wood cleaner.
To protect the finish, interior reclaimed wood should be cleaned with a soft rag and a wood cleaner or a wood wax product.
Should I Oil Reclaimed Wood?
Yes, you should oil reclaimed wood if it’s untreated or if you want to retain the finish for longer.
Routine oiling of reclaimed wood protects the finish and ensures the textured grain stays raised and visible.
Applying oil to reclaimed wood should be done once every one to two months to protect the finish.
What Oil Do You Use on Reclaimed Wood?
Oil reclaimed wood using a general wood finish, like Orange Oil, or Wood Turners Finish Oil. After use, seal the wood with Satin Wax Natural to remove scratches and buff the wood for a soft, silky sheen.
Before oiling reclaimed wood, ensure the surface is clean of dust and grime. Otherwise, the layer of dirt will become harder to remove. Oiling before cleaning can also cause imperfections to the grained surface and reduce the lifespan of the finish.
Apply the oil using a brush or a rag, depending on personal preferences and the size of the reclaimed lumber. A brush spreads the oil easier and makes application to a larger surface quicker.
Once applied in a thick, even coat, leave the oil on the surface for several minutes. This allows the mixture to soak into the wood properly. If any excess remains on the surface after setting, gently wipe it with a soft, clean cloth.
Summary
Cleaning and protecting reclaimed wood tables is simple, provided the right cleaners and pads are used. The best results are seen when tables are cleaned monthly or bi-monthly, with routine oiling to strengthen the wood and protect the finish.
Explore our range of reclaimed wood tables and other household items today.
