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Cleaning Up/cleaning mildew from wood

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Expert: - 9/3/2010


Question
The dehumidifier wasn't working properly in our lower level and the wood furniture (mostly old) now has white powdery spots on it.  It can be wiped off, but should I clean it in some way to help prevent any further damage?

Answer
Hi Debby;

There may not be any harm done to the wood surface. If the powder wipes off, I am taking for granted that it has not penetrated the finish. In this case. Use about 1/4 cup of baking soda to a gallon of warm water, mixed well. Simply wash off the furniture and dry with a towel. This works great if you can do it outside!

Then don't cover the furniture, let it air dry for 24 hours and put on a good coat of lemon oil (pure, the kind without petroleum dissilitates in it) and you have your priceless furniture revitalized.
Happ y Cleaning,
Jan Hayner

Cleaning Up

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Jan Hayner

Expertise

If you have questions regarding home organizing, house cleaning shortcuts, office organizing, files, record keeping, organizing your children, teaching your kids how to help you clean and making it fun, I will give you the advice of a Professional Organizer, mom of four and grandma of 8. Working Smarter-Not Harder is a phrase I live by; taking the stress out of life so you have time for the fun things is my goal!

Experience

I have been a Professional Organizer for 9 years, the mom of 4 and grandma of 8,I do work for clients in the home and the work place, and am considered an expert in my field of Organization.

Organizations
Faithful Organizers, passed member of NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers), WIM (Women in Management),

Publications
I have had work published all over the internet and various webzines and Newsletters. I am also a columnist on Mature Resources.org. and an Expert on all experts.com under Self Improvement/SelfHelp/Organizing Your Home and Workspace.

Education/Credentials
I have taken various /classes on organizing on the interent, been taught by the best (other collegues in the field), and when I need to learn something, I find an expert in the field and learn from them. I am a research fanatic and enjoy learning everything that I can on a subject.

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