Wooden doors are a staple in many homes, valued for their affordability and the way they blend with a wide range of architectural styles. Yet maintenance is often neglected, and over time dust, oil, cobwebs, and other buildup can dull their look. If you want to restore the original luster of wooden doors, here is a thorough guide that covers natural, varnished, and lacquered finishes.
Maintenance of natural wooden doors
Natural wood doors are porous and can be damaged by abrasive cleaners. Start by removing dust with a soft duster. For stains, use a solution of ammonia diluted in water. To remove any remaining cleaner, wipe the surface with a slightly damp microfiber cloth, following the grain of the wood. Finally, to boost brightness, apply liquid polish or natural wax that complements the wood’s color.
Cleaning varnished and lacquered wooden doors
Varnished and lacquered doors carry a protective layer, so the priority 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. Clean along the grain with a microfiber cloth, then wipe with a semi-damp cloth to remove any vinegar residue. This method removes oil stains and acts as a disinfectant while preserving the finish.
How to polish varnished wooden doors
To bring a varnished wooden door to a showroom shine, wipe the entire surface with a soft cloth moistened with water and either olive oil or a commercial wood polish designed for varnish finishes.
How to clean very dirty wooden doors?
For doors that are deeply soiled, mix three tablespoons of baking soda with a little liquid soap and five drops of lemon juice. Gently scrub the stains with a semi-damp cloth, then rinse with a clean cloth. For extra brilliance, finish by wiping with an active oxygen cloth to brighten the surface.
Common mistakes you make when cleaning your wooden doors
- Avoid corrosive detergents that can strip the varnish or finish.
- Dust first to prevent scratches during cleaning.
- Use soft cloths to protect the wood surface.
- Dry doors with a microfiber cloth to remove moisture effectively.
You may be interested in:
Keeping wooden doors clean helps preserve the look of the home. White lacquered doors respond well to baking soda for cleaning, while active oxygen is useful for polishing polished and lacquered surfaces, but it is not recommended for natural wood.
If curious about more cleaning tips, explore the Decoration section for a wide range of techniques and practical advice to save time around the house.