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.”

You Will Need:

• A vacuum
• Tape
• White vinegar
• Water
• A cloth
• Enzyme digester

Steps to Remove the Pollen:

1. Hold a vacuum hose over the area to dislodge and remove as much of the pollen as possible.¹
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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

• 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.

1. Stain Removal by Stephanie Zia
2. Household Hints For Dummies by Janet Sobesky