How to Remove Fingerprints from Wood Furniture

Fingerprints on wood furniture can be difficult to remove, even with polishing. Here are some simple steps that can be taken to rid your wooden piece of prints using products found around your home.

• Wood polish
• Mineral oil
• Lemon extract
• Corn starch
• Soft cloths

1. Start by polishing the piece as normal. Commercial wood polish can be used or a homemade polish can be mixed by combing one cup of mineral oil with three drops of lemon extract.
2. Apply the polish to the piece with a soft cloth. Follow the grain of the wood while wiping with the soft cloth. Using a circular motion can result in swirls on the surface.
3. Sprinkle the freshly polished areas with corn starch.
4. Buff with a dry, soft cloth. The corn starch will remove the excess polish and fingerprints.

• If lemon extract is not available, orange extract can be substituted.
• The homemade polish can be stored in an air tight container. It can be used without the cornstarch as a regular polish.
• Mild soap cleaners can also be used when diluted with water. Moisten a cloth with the water and soap mixture and use it to gently wipe the surface.
• Murphy’s Oil Soap is a well-known wood cleaning product that is safe to use as well.
• Lemon oil should be used sparingly on wooden furniture. It offers a clean shine, but does not protect or “feed” the wood as some products may claim.
• Do not use silicone-based products on wooden pianos or organs. They can cause interior damage that is irreversible.