Clair asked: How do I clean residue from an oil cloth tablecloth on an expensive piece of wood furniture? I folded an oil cloth tablecloth in half and put it face down on the piece of wood furniture. The top part of the oil cloth was in contact with the wood. I stored heavy paperwork on top of it. The residue came off of the cloth and is now stuck on the wood. I tried hot, soapy water, and it did not do anything. It looks and feels a bit like a thin, waxy film. I hope you can help. The wood furniture is highly polished with a very smooth surface.
Oil cloth is covered with an oily coating, which is where it gets its name. In order to remove this residue, it will require a cleaning agent that can cut through the residue and allow it to release from the wooden surface.
You Will Need:
- Water
- Ammonia
- Soft cloths
- Spray bottle
Steps to Clean the Residue:
- Fill a spray bottle with water.
- Add a small amount of ammonia to the water.
- Swirl the bottle to mix the ammonia into the water.
- Spray the solution onto the residue and allow it to set for a minute.
- Wipe away with a clean, soft cloth.
- Repeat as necessary until the residue is removed.
Additional Tips and Advice
- If ammonia is unavailable, vinegar can be used as a replacement.
- The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is excellent at removing all kinds of stains and residues. Test a small area first to ensure it does not remove any of the finish.
- If necessary, wax or polish the furniture after the residue is removed to restore the finish.
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