AboutEileen Cronk Expertise I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc.
I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.
Experience I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.
Question I have several pieces of Cushman furniture from the 1950's. I'd like to give them a cleaning. When I dampened a cloth to wipe the buffet down it looked like I was removing the finish as the cloth became brownish. What is the proper way to clean wooden tables and chairs from years of wear?
Thank you.
Answer Hi Sheila
Nice to hear from you.
The brown was not finish.
The proper way to clean this furniture is with mineral spirits and a rag.
Just dampen the rag in the spirits and wipe with the grain.
In cases of heavy dirt and wax build up (which it sounds you have), use very fine steel wool dipped in the spirits instead of the rag.
Dry with clean rags as you go.
When the drying rag stays perfectly clean, the furniture is clean.
You are going to be amazed at the dirt this takes off.
Follow the cleaning with a nice polish.
Regards
Eileen
