How to Remove Ink Stains from Wood Furniture
Make a cleaning solution using dish soap., Test the finish., Gather some of the soap suds with a soft cloth.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Make a cleaning solution using dish soap.
This method is most effective for fresh ink spills.
Dish-washing soap works because of its grease-fighting properties.
It lifts the stain and prevents it from getting into the wood.
Mix a half teaspoon of liquid dish-washing soap with a one third cup of hot water in a small bowl.
Stir the solution to make lots of soap suds. -
Step 2: Test the finish.
Before using any cleaner on wood, you should testhow the finish reacts to it.
Stick a cotton ball into the soap suds and rub it against a small section of the furniture.
Try to find a spot out of view.
If the soap damages the finish, stop.
If it doesn't damage the finish, proceed with the next step., Make sure you're only getting into the suds, not in the solution.
Then, gently wipe the ink stain with the soapy cloth.
Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to rinse it off, then dry the area with a clean towel.
If the stain is still visible, you can use superfine steel wool (number 0000) dipped in liquid wax.
Rub the steel wool lightly onto the stained area.
The steel wool should remove only a fine layer of the surface.
It's important to be gentle so that you don't remove too much wood.
Wipe away the shavings with a clean cloth. -
Step 3: Gather some of the soap suds with a soft cloth.
Detailed Guide
This method is most effective for fresh ink spills.
Dish-washing soap works because of its grease-fighting properties.
It lifts the stain and prevents it from getting into the wood.
Mix a half teaspoon of liquid dish-washing soap with a one third cup of hot water in a small bowl.
Stir the solution to make lots of soap suds.
Before using any cleaner on wood, you should testhow the finish reacts to it.
Stick a cotton ball into the soap suds and rub it against a small section of the furniture.
Try to find a spot out of view.
If the soap damages the finish, stop.
If it doesn't damage the finish, proceed with the next step., Make sure you're only getting into the suds, not in the solution.
Then, gently wipe the ink stain with the soapy cloth.
Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to rinse it off, then dry the area with a clean towel.
If the stain is still visible, you can use superfine steel wool (number 0000) dipped in liquid wax.
Rub the steel wool lightly onto the stained area.
The steel wool should remove only a fine layer of the surface.
It's important to be gentle so that you don't remove too much wood.
Wipe away the shavings with a clean cloth.
About the Author
Debra Walker
Experienced content creator specializing in pet care guides and tutorials.
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