Removing paste wax from furniture can restore the original finish or prepare the surface for a new coat of paint or stain. The process should be undertaken with care to avoid damaging the wood. Here are the steps for safely removing paste wax from furniture:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary materials:
- Wax removal product or mineral spirits
- Fine steel wool (0000-grade)
- Soft, lint-free cloths
- Plastic scraper or putty knife (optional)
- Rubber gloves
- Protective eyewear
- Well-ventilated workspace
Step 2: Test the Wax Remover
It’s important to first test the wax remover on a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish. If the remover seems too harsh, you can dilute it with water or look for a milder alternative.
Step 3: Apply the Wax Remover
Put on your gloves and eyewear for protection. Following the instructions on the wax remover product, apply it to a section of the waxed surface. If you are using mineral spirits, dampen a cloth with the mineral spirits and apply it to the wax. Work in small sections to keep the remover from drying out before you can scrape or scrub the wax off.
Step 4: Scrub Gently
While the wax is still soft from the remover, use the fine steel wool (0000-grade) to gently scrub the surface. Move in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratching the surface. The wax should start to come off. Wipe away the excess remover and wax with a clean cloth as you go.
If you encounter hard-to-remove wax, a plastic scraper may be used with utmost caution to lift the wax without scratching the wood. Always use a scraping motion that moves away from you for safety.
Step 5: Wipe Down the Surface
Once all the wax is removed, take a clean cloth and give the entire piece a thorough wipe-down to remove any remaining wax remover and loosened wax. It may be necessary to use a fresh section of the cloth or a new cloth to avoid spreading wax back onto the surface.
Step 6: Repeat if Necessary
If some paste wax still remains, repeat the process until the wood is free of wax. Afterward, make sure to turn your attention to corners, details, and crevices where wax can accumulate. Use a cloth wrapped around a small tool, like a screwdriver, to press into these areas gently.
Step 7: Allow to Dry and Polish
After you have completely removed the wax, allow the furniture to dry fully. This should not take long since both mineral spirits and most commercially available wax removers evaporate fairly quickly. Once dry, the wood may appear dull but will be ready for a new finish or for polishing with a furniture polish if you want to maintain the natural look.
Additional Tips
- Always work in a well-ventilated area as the fumes from wax removers and mineral spirits can be strong and potentially harmful.
- Protect the floor beneath the furniture with a drop cloth or old newspapers.
- Dispose of steel wool and cloths soaked with wax remover properly, following local regulations, as they can be flammable.
- If after following these steps you still find the finish is affected or the wood seems damaged, it may be wise to consult with a professional furniture restorer for further advice.
Following this step-by-step guide will help you remove paste wax from furniture safely and effectively, resulting in a clean surface ready for new finish or maintenance.