Antique furniture will look more beautiful if it is kept clean. Since antique furniture is more than 100 years old, it is important to clean it in a gentle manner so the finish does not get damaged. Using the correct products and techniques will help maintain your furniture and keep it glowing.

Cleaning Tools

Soft brushes for dusting, cotton cloths and toothbrushes will help clean your antique furniture without damaging it. Toothbrushes will allow you to reach difficult places. Avoid using steel wool because the hard texture may cause scratches or peeling.

Other Damage

Inspect the furniture for white spots, peeling finish and scratches. Cleaning the furniture will not make these damages disappear and saturating the furniture with cleaner or scrubbing hard will worsen the condition.

Cleaning

Dust the furniture with a dry cotton cloth or brush. Next make a solution of liquid dish soap and water. Wipe a small amount of solution in an inconspicuous area to make certain it does not damage the finish. Then clean small areas of the furniture, wiping each area dry with a cotton cloth as you clean. More difficult grime may need to be removed with a trisodium phosphate-free or vegetable oil cleaner. Ask a paint store or hardware store to recommend an appropriate cleaner and follow the same cleaning procedure. Apply wax to help protect the furniture from grime and dust. Apply the wax sparingly in a thin layer, wait until it appears dry, and then buff it with a dry cloth. Your hardware store can suggest the type of wax that is best for your furniture. Bring a picture of the furniture with you. The wax will help protect the furniture and give it a lustrous sheen.

Additional Cleaning Tips

Constantly refold the cotton cloth so you are wiping the wood with a clean section of cloth. This will ensure that you are removing dust instead of redistributing it. When waxing furniture, if you are uncertain if it is dry, wait longer. If the wax is too dry it may take more effort to remove, but if the wax is not ready to be buffed, starting too early can damage the furniture.

Source:

Refinish Wizard: How to Clean Old and Antique Furniture

Refinish Furniture: Antique Restoration

Michigan State University Extension: Antique Wood Furniture - Care and Cleaning

More Information:

TheFurnitureConnoisseur.com: Furniture Wax and Caring for Wood Furniture