Expert: Eileen Cronk - 10/30/2008

Question
My table has some age on it. Around the chair tops and the arms & around the table are dirty. I would like to know what I can use to clean them and not damage the oak wood.

Answer
Hi Sandy
Nice to hear from you.
I am very familiar with this type of dirt with a large family and Grandchildren.
The only thing that will sucessfully remove this type of dirt is mineral spirits (called varsol in Canada).
Pour some in a plastic marg tub.
Start by dipping a rag in the varsol and rubbing the dirt.
On really heavy dirt (mine LOL), you use a fine steel wool pad dipped in the varsol.
Rub with the grain where possible but there are areas on chairs this is not handy to do.
Dry with clean rags as you go. When the drying rags show no more soil the chairs are clean.
You will be absolutely amazed at the dirt this takes off. It takes every bit of it.
You can follow with a light liquid paste wax. Do not wash with water afterwards.
Sandy this will not in any way harm your chairs so dig in.
Its best to do this outdoors if possible as the varsol smells.
And of course no open flames.
Kind Regards
Eileen