What’s the quickest and easiest way to make antique furniture look great?
Usually all it takes is an application of either furniture polish or wax.
Some polishes will remove wax so it’s best to pick one or the other, depending on the piece your working on.
For this page we’ll stick to furniture polish which is typically used on pieces that have a finish.
Finishes can include lacquer, shellac, urethanes, varnishes, oil and French polish.
Most polishes, such as Rosini’s Rejuventor, come in liquid form and can be used as often as preferred to clean wood furniture and revive old finishes.
Results will vary from piece to piece depending on the condition of finish and quality of product.
Not sure what your polish will do?
Try it first to be happy.
A trial application on a furniture leg or lower side of case is always a good idea.
This will give you an opportunity to see how your furniture polish will react with a particular piece of furniture.
Stand back and inspect from different angles. Something to watch for may be dark blotches. This would be an indicator that your polish may be getting absorbed heavier in some areas, like where the finish is worn.
The overall appearance of your trial area will be the determining factor as to whether you want to continue.
Is It a Polish or a Finish?
Most furniture polishes are not a finish.
It’s best to read labels carefully to be sure of what you’re using.
Some finishes use the word “Polish” in their name.
For example – Liberon Easy French Polish, a great product used to apply a finish, but not something to clean your dining room table with.
If you want a general cleaner/polish then you’ll be looking to use a wipe on wipe off product.
Furniture Polish to Remove Bloom Marks
Some furniture polishes will remove white rings and bloom marks caused by moisture.
To do so, try keeping the area wet with polish while gently rubbing with 0000 steel wool (always with the grain).
Older damages may need professional attention.
In Conclusion
If your not happy with results of furniture polish or wax and you have no experience with finishing, then a call to your local restorer may be best for your furniture, and wallet.
