How to Remove Lotion from Bare Wood

The exact method and results will vary somewhat depending on the type of wood and the ingredients of the lotion, but if you follow these simple steps you should be able to remove most lotions from unfinished wood.

You Will Need:

• 220 grit sandpaper
• Microfiber cloth

Steps to Remove the Lotion:

1. Choose a fine grit sandpaper to avoid leaving streaks or gouges in the wood.
2. Lightly sand the affected area until the lotion is gone. Change the sandpaper frequently if the lotion gunks it up to avoid spreading the mess.
3. Wipe wood dust away with a lint-free microfiber cloth.

You Will Need:

• Soft, absorbent cloth or brown paper bag
• Iron

Steps to Remove the Lotion:

Some oils can be removed from wood with heat and an absorbent material.

1. Lay the paper bag or soft cloth over the lotion residue.
2. Heat the area with a warm iron. Never use a hot iron as this can leave burn marks on the wood.
3. Keep the iron moving to avoid leaving marks.
4. As the heat penetrates the oil, it will transfer to the paper/cloth. Move the piece so a clean area covers the lotion and iron again.
5. Repeat until the lotion/oil is removed.

• Softer woods, like pine, will be easier to clean than hardwoods.
• If the lotion remains, try a Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to even out the surface before staining.