To use dish detergent, mix a healthy amount into a large bucket of water. Dip in a sponge, then lightly rub down your piece of furniture. Take care not to soak the wood, and dry it thoroughly. For a more aggressive approach, soak a cloth with mineral spirits so it’s wet, but not dripping. Wipe the furniture down in a well-ventilated area, taking care not to touch your mouth or eyes. Wipe off any remaining mineral spirits with a wet cloth to finish.
Depending on these factors, you’ll want to use different refinishing methods.
If you find that you can’t sand through the old finish to expose the original wood, you will probably need to use a chemical paint stripper instead of sanding.
If you’re working with a large piece of furniture, apply the paint stripper to one portion of it at a time and scrape it off before applying it to another area. If you coat the entirety of a large piece of furniture, parts of it may become too dry before you get around to scraping them. [9] X Research source Use a metal wire brush to scrape congealed paint stripper from detailed nooks and crannies. When stripping fine detail work, it may also help to apply several coats of paint stripper before removing it. This will loosen the paint more effectively and make it easier to remove from hard-to-reach places. Make sure to use the kind of neutralizer specified on the label of your paint stripper, or it may not work.
Wood filler can feel raised to the touch, but don’t worry. You can sand it down once it dries. Let the wood filler completely set and dry before you do anything else. [12] X Expert Source William & Shannon LatilFurniture Refinishing & Home Remodeling Specialists Expert Interview. 29 October 2021.
At this stage, you can also sand down any wood filler that feels bumpy or raised.
Try to pick a stain that closely matches the furniture’s color. [16] X Expert Source William & Shannon LatilFurniture Refinishing & Home Remodeling Specialists Expert Interview. 29 October 2021. You will probably need more than one layer of the clear coat. Wait for your first layer to dry, then sand it down before applying the final layer. [17] X Research source If you’re pleased with the natural color of the wood, there’s no need to apply stain. Just paint the oiled wood with a protective clear coat, and you’re done!
Brush strokes should begin towards the top of your furniture and travel downward. This way, any accidental drips will be be covered up by the final coat of paint.
The drapery also attachment works well to vacuum cushions that can’t be removed. Use the upholstery nozzle to vacuum along piping and underneath cushions. Consider renting a steam cleaner if your upholstered furniture is especially dirty.
If the cushion covers you’re washing are just a few years old, you might place them in the dryer on warm. You can also line dry the covers if you’re unsure about their age or quality. You might need to handwash antique cushion covers. Alternatively, clean an antique cushion cover with warm water and soap. First, place an antique cushion cover on a flat surface like a counter. Dampen a sponge and run the sponge over the surface of the textile gently to clean it. Place the cushion cover on a drying rack to dry.
You can also buy cleaning products made specifically for upholstery. While each product has its own set of instructions, some cleaners require you to apply the product, let it sit and then use a vacuum or steam cleaner to finish cleaning the upholstery. Upholstered furniture attracts dust easily, so let it dry inside your living space. You might sit the furniture near a window to speed up drying, weather permitting.
