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Clean your unfinished wood with these maintenance tips
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Cleaning unfinished wood can be a daunting task because there is no layer of varnish to protect the wood from damage. However, with a gentle hand, it’s not as difficult as it may seem. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to clean, protect, and maintain uncoated wood, as well as answer common questions about the process.
How to Clean Untreated Wood
Wipe away dust and dirt with a microfiber cloth and a soft-bristle brush. Use a stiff-bristle brush to loosen stubborn grime, then vacuum it all away. If stains remain, lightly dampen a cloth with a mild wood cleaner or dish soap and water, wring it out, and wipe it across the surface. Let the wood dry completely.
Steps
Section 1 of 4:
How to Clean Unfinished Wood
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Wipe away dust and debris with a soft brush or cloth. A clean microfiber cloth is great for removing surface dirt that is not ingrained very deeply, while a soft-bristle brush is good for brushing away small pieces of debris trapped inside the groove and ridges of the unfinished wood. Run the cloth along the surface to pick up dust, then use the brush to gently wipe away anything in the crevices and then vacuum it up. [1] X Trustworthy Source US National Park Service Agency responsible for the maintenance and promotion of national parks and monuments Go to source
- Some recommend sweeping or brushing unfinished wood every day, especially if it’s a surface you use frequently. Usually, dusting once a week is enough, however.
- For best results, use a gentle flicking motion with the bristles of the brush on the surface of the wood.
- Alternatively, use a microfiber mop or broom.
- Note that this section contains different ways to clean unfinished wood. Depending on how dirty the surface is, you may need to use one, two, or more of these methods.
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Use vinegar to naturally remove dirt and stains from the surface. Untreated wood is porous and absorbent, so it isn’t recommended to use harsh, store-bought cleaners. Instead, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray it on the affected surface and immediately wipe it with a microfiber cloth. Don’t let the solution sit for more than a few minutes, as it will seep into the wood and potentially damage it. [2] X Research sourceAdvertisement
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Gently pull up dirt with an erasing compound. Erasing compounds are elements used to remove dirt from bare wood surfaces. Apply a small amount of the erasing compound on the surface of the unfinished wood and use some cotton balls to work the cleaning material into the grain. Gently swirl the cotton balls in circular motions for best results. Once finished, vacuum the wood to pick up any remnants of the erasing compound. [3] X Research source
- Be sure to avoid rubbing the wood too harshly, as this could cause damage.
- Once the erasing compound turns gray, it is no longer effective and needs to be reapplied.
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Remove stubborn grime with a vacuum and stiff brush. Using a stiffer brush on the surface of your unfinished wood may be more useful for wood that has dirt and other debris more deeply ingrained in the grain of the wood. Wipe the unfinished wood and vacuum up any fragments that become loose. Be careful not to rub the stiff bristles on the wood too harshly, as this may damage the wood. [4] X Research source
- This method is most effective on unfinished wood that is already in good condition.
- Use caution when brushing the surface or using the vacuum on the wood. Being too rough can cause visible and lasting imperfections.
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Remove tougher grime and build-up with a mineral spirit. Mineral spirits are a kind of solvent that painters often use when cleaning their used painting brushes. Dampen a towel with the solution and gently wipe the surface of your unfinished wood. Be sure to wear gloves while you are handling the mineral spirits and avoid directly inhaling the fumes. [5] X Research source
- Because this is a type of liquid treatment, be very careful and apply the mineral spirits sparingly to avoid damaging the wood.
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Deep clean stains with a mild wood cleaner or dish soap. Sometimes, dirt or stains may be so deeply ingrained that dusting and dry scrubbing won’t remove it all. If wiping and vacuuming the surface isn’t enough, lightly dampen a cloth with a mild wood cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and water. Wring the cloth out, making sure it isn’t too wet, then wipe the surface. Alternatively, apply the cleaner with a soft-bristle brush, working in the direction of the grain. [6] X Research source
- Do not use excessively wet cleaning methods, as water can be extremely damaging to unfinished wood and make it harder to finish later. Use as little water as possible and dry the wood thoroughly.
- Do not use any cleaners with harsh chemicals, as these can damage the wood’s porous surface.
- Always test your cleaning method in a small, conspicuous area first to see if it will damage the wood.
- Cleaning expert Susan Stocker recommends “using simply deionized water [to clean wood]. It’s chemical-free, won’t damage any finish, and dries super fast (wood does not like water!).” [7]
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Expert Source
Susan Stocker
House Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 8 November 2019. - Cleaning expert Ashley Matuska agrees that using water and a damp microfiber cloth is “your best bet” for cleaning unfinished wood. She warns against “overly saturating it.” [8]
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Expert Source
Ashley Matuska
Professional Cleaner Expert Interview. 15 April 2019.
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Clean hard-to-reach areas and crevices with an adhesive rubber. Adhesive rubber is very sticky and pliable so that it can be forced into the small crevices on the surface of wood. Apply the rubber to the surface and gently knead it to work it into the grain. As it becomes darker with dirt, tear off the top layer to work with a fresh one. [9] X Research source
- This works especially well for cleaning window tracks, door jambs, and cabinet corners.
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Community Q&A
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QuestionHow do I clean unfinished kitchen cabinets for painting?Community AnswerUse a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser with water and just scrub. The eraser is soft and won't damage your cabinets, and just using water is enough to remove any dirt or grime.
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Tips
- Work slowly and use a gentle hand when cleaning unfinished wood. Because it doesn’t have a protective finish, it is quite susceptible to scratches and other damage.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.nps.gov/museum/publications/conserveogram/07-01.pdf
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2016/pch/NM95-57-7-1-2016-eng.pdf
- ↑ https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2016/pch/NM95-57-7-1-2016-eng.pdf
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ Susan Stocker. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 8 November 2019.
- ↑ Ashley Matuska. Professional Cleaner. Expert Interview. 15 April 2019.
- ↑ https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2016/pch/NM95-57-7-1-2016-eng.pdf
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/2150-paints-and-finishes/
- ↑ https://howtocleanthestuff.com/how-to-clean-unfinished-wood/
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ https://howtocleanthestuff.com/how-to-clean-unfinished-wood/
- ↑ https://awiqcp.org/news-and-blog/the-effects-of-heat-on-architectural-woodwork/
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/removing-wood-stains-the-ultimate-guide.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ http://extension.msstate.edu/content/signs-termite-infestation
- ↑ https://howtocleanthestuff.com/how-to-clean-unfinished-wood/
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
- ↑ https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/floor-and-surface-cleaning/clean-and-polish-wood.html
About This Article
Article Summary
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With a gentle hand and the right tools, you can easily clean your unfinished wood without damaging it. All you’ll need is a soft brush, vacuum cleaner, and a microfiber cloth. Use your brush to gently wipe any debris from the cracks and crevices of your wood. Then, vacuum up the dirt and wipe your wood with a microfiber cloth to pick up any surface dirt. Avoid using water, since this can damage your wood. You should do this at least once a week to keep your unfinished wood clean. To remove any grime or stains, try using a stiffer brush. You can also use an adhesive rubber, which will pick up dirt as you roll it over your wood surface. For more tips, including how to clean your unfinished wood with mineral spirits, read on!
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