Scratches on your wood furniture can be an eyesore, but don’t worry, there are several easy ways to remove them and restore your furniture’s shine. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove scratches using a mineral oil and pumice paste, as well as some other household items you may already have on hand.
Step 1: Make a Mineral Oil and Pumice Paste
To create a scratch-removing paste, mix mineral oil and pumice powder together until you have a thick, spreadable consistency. Pumice powder can be found at most hardware or paint stores.
Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Scratches
Using extra-fine steel wool, gently rub the paste into the scratched area of your furniture. Apply light pressure and work in the direction of the wood grain.
Step 3: Wipe Away the Excess
Once you’ve worked the paste into the scratches, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess. Make sure to remove all traces of the paste.
Step 4: Buff the Surface
To finish, buff the treated area with a dry cloth. This will help to blend the repaired area with the surrounding finish and restore the shine to your furniture.
Step 5: Repeat as Needed
For deeper scratches or stubborn marks, you may need to repeat the process a few times. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes before rubbing it in for added effectiveness.
In addition to the mineral oil and pumice method, there are several other household items you can use to remove scratches from wood furniture:
- Walnuts: Rub a walnut kernel directly into the scratch to fill it in and smooth it out.
- Tea: Steep a black tea bag in hot water, then use a cotton swab to dab the tea onto the scratches. The tannins in the tea can help to blend the mark with the surrounding finish.
- Mayonnaise: Apply a thick layer of mayonnaise to the scratches and let it sit for 2-3 days. The oils in the mayonnaise will help to plump up the surrounding wood and fill in the scratch.
- Furniture markers: Look for markers specifically designed for touching up wood furniture. Choose a color that closely matches your furniture’s finish and use it to fill in the scratches.
With these simple tips and a little elbow grease, you can easily remove scratches from your wood furniture and keep it looking its best for years to come.