How to Remove Flower Pollen from Wood

Isabel said, “Lily flower pollen has left stains on my light wood dining table. Please help, I’m so upset. Thanks.”

Table of Contents:

Removing the Pollen
Additional Tips and Advice
Sources

Pollen particles have hook-like burrs that allow them to grab onto bees and butterflies for travel, as well as onto virtually any other surface. Follow the steps below to remove the pollen from your wood table, floor, or chair.¹

Removing the Pollen

You Will Need:

A vacuum
Tape
White vinegar
Water
A cloth
Enzyme digester

Steps to Remove the Pollen:

Hold a vacuum hose over the area to dislodge and remove as much of the pollen as possible.¹
Apply a piece of strong tape, such as duct tape, over the remaining pollen. Remove the tape to remove the pollen, repeating as many times as needed.²
If a stain remains, mix together equal amounts of white vinegar and water. Clean off the stain with the solution, then wipe the area dry.¹
If the stain is stubborn, use an enzyme digester that is safe for wood, such as Nature’s Miracle Hard Floor Pet Stain and Odor Remover. Follow the instructions on the label of your selected cleaner.¹

Additional Tips and Advice

Do not rub the pollen, as this can cause it to disperse further and become more difficult to remove.²
Spraying the anthers (the pollen stem) of a flower with hair spray will prevent the pollen from falling. However, this will shorten the life of the flowers.
Cutting off the anthers over a trash can will remove the possibility of the pollen falling on a table.