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How to Clean Wooden Surfaces

by SEO - August 27, 2021

Will soap and water damage woodWood is a luxe, sumptuous natural material that’s the staple of every stylish home. Most floors or countertops are wooden, and this fact begs the question: “What is the best way to clean wood?”

Many homeowners rely on a home cleaning service in Tucker so they don’t have to worry about compromising the integrity of their wooden furniture while they clean. However, if you prefer doing things yourself, some expert tips will help you handle the process properly. Even if you know the basics, like how to make your wooden kitchen counters look brand new, which surfaces you can clean with vinegar, or how to clean hardwood floors, there are a few obvious no-no’s that people usually overlook. Read on!

Will soap and water damage wood?

Generally, no, they won’t. However, like with most things, if you take it to the extreme, it will do more harm than good. 

Many of the wooden surfaces can and should be cleaned with water only. Most wooden surfaces have a finish that not only protects the wood from deteriorating, but also makes cleaning easier. This is due to the fact that all the dirt gets collected on the smooth, water-repelling surface of the wood finish. Using a microfiber cloth that’s only a little damp will do the trick. If you encounter spots that need extra cleaning, you can use a mild dish soap to help you get rid of that stubborn dirt. 

Do not, however, add too much soap, and do not use strong abrasive cleaning agents. Steer clear of bleach and even vinegar when you’re cleaning wooden surfaces because they may damage the protective coating that each wooden surface has. Without the finish, the wood itself will gradually get dirtier and dirtier, ultimately leading to a very tough cleaning job. 

Therefore, you can use soap and water to clean a wooden surface, only remember to use both in moderation. You can even wipe the excess water from the surface if you want to be extra careful. As long as your wood finish is not damaged, using water and soap mix will not harm the wood itself in any way.

Does vinegar hurt wood?

Yes, it does. Usually when it comes to wooden surface cleaning you should try and steer clear of vinegar. 

In some cases, if you use a really diluted mix of vinegar and water, it might not harm the wood per se. However, each time you use vinegar to clean a wooden surface, it will harm the finish, at least ever so slightly. If the wood is coated in lacquer correctly, following government issued guidelines, it will persevere against vinegar for a substantial amount of time. However, it will damage the wood finish.

Without the wood finish, the vinegar will most definitely harm the wood itself. You might not notice it right away, but after continuous use, it will dry out the top layer of the wood, making it crumble away over time.

What is safe to clean wood with?

As previously mentioned, most wooden surfaces only require water and a little bit of mild detergent to clean them in extreme cases. Using water only is the safest cleaning method as it won’t damage the wood finish and it most certainly won’t damage the wood. Even if you add a bit of mild detergent to the mix, it should be fine. Just make sure you don’t go overboard with using either one.

How do I find a trustworthy home cleaning service in Tucker and the surrounding areas?

Does vinegar hurt woodAre you bored with all the cleaning chores you have to do? Would you rather go and visit the High Museum of Art with your family? In that case, call The Moxie Maids. We offer our customers only the best deals and thorough cleaning jobs every single time. 

If you depend on trained professionals at The Moxie Maids, you’ll never have to worry about harming your precious wooden pieces. Your crew will handle your belongings with the utmost care, making sure that they’re squeaky clean and fully protected. Contact us today to book your detailed service!