Wooden doors are common in many homes for their affordability and versatile style. Over time they can lose their shine as dust, oil, cobwebs, and other buildup cover the surface. This guide offers a practical approach to cleaning wooden doors and restoring their original luster, with clear steps for different finishes and levels of dirt.
Maintenance of natural wooden doors
Doors carved from natural wood are porous and can suffer if harsh cleaners are used. Start by removing dust with a duster. For stains, prepare a solution with diluted ammonia in water. Wipe gently, then finish by using a slightly damp microfiber cloth and wipe with the grain to remove any remaining cleaner. To enhance brightness, apply a liquid polish or natural wax that blends with the wood color. Regular care helps preserve texture and appearance without compromising the surface.
Cleaning varnished and lacquered wooden doors
Varnished and lacquered doors wear a protective layer, so the goal is to avoid damage. Begin by dusting with a duster or brush. Then apply a solution of 25 ml cleaning vinegar to 75 ml water and wipe along the grain with a microfiber cloth. Follow with a semi damp cloth to remove vinegar traces. This method helps lift oils and acts as a mild disinfectant while respecting the finish.
How to polish varnished wooden doors
To bring a varnished door to a brighter shine, wipe the surface with a soft cloth dampened with water and then use olive oil or a commercial wood polish for a smooth, even sheen.
How to clean very dirty wooden doors
When doors are heavily soiled, mix three tablespoons of baking soda with a small amount of liquid soap and five drops of lemon juice. Gently rub stains with a semi damp cloth, then wipe clean to rinse. For extra brightness, apply active oxygen with a cloth and finish by wiping the door clean.
Keeping wooden doors clean helps maintain the home’s aesthetic appeal. A careful approach works for both natural finishes and lacquered surfaces. White lacquered doors can be cleaned with baking soda, and active oxygen is useful for polishing polished and lacquered doors. It is not recommended for natural wood.
For more house care tips, the Decoration section offers a wide range of advice and techniques that can be tried at home to save time and effort.