4 Ways to Remove Water Stains From Wood, According to Cleaning Experts

Preserve your wood furniture by removing water stains with simple DIY solutions. Water rings often appear when you forget to use a coaster, but they can be easily treated. Cleaning experts recommend using common items like an iron, white vinegar, olive oil, and salt to effectively tackle these blemishes on your wood furniture.

How to Remove Water Stains With an Iron

An iron is often used for getting wrinkles out of clothes, but it can also remove water stains from wood. "This method is best for recent water stains," says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of Aspen Clean. "If the stain has been on the wood for a long time, it may not be possible to remove it completely."

1. Fill an iron with distilled water and set it to a low heat setting.
2. Fold a clean microfiber cloth in half and place it over the water stain.
3. Gently place the iron on top of the cloth and hold it in place for about 10 seconds, making sure the iron is not too hot.
4. Pull back the iron and cloth periodically to check if the stain has lifted.

How to Remove Water Stains With Vinegar and Baking Soda

If the stain isn't lifting with an iron, try using white vinegar. "If using a vinegar method, test a small inconspicuous spot to make sure the stained wood surface can tolerate the acidity of vinegar," says Melissa Poepping, founder of The Chemical Free Home.

1. Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a small bowl.
2. Soak a microfiber cloth in the vinegar solution. Wring it out so it's damp but not dripping.
3. Place the cloth on the stain and press down gently, making sure the cloth covers the entire stain.
4. Let the cloth sit on the stain for an hour.
5. Remove the cloth and check to see whether the stain has lifted.
6. If the stain is still visible, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on the stain.
7. Pour a few drops of distilled white vinegar onto the baking soda.
8. Using a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the stain until it lifts.
9. Wipe the baking soda and vinegar mixture away with a clean, damp cloth.
10. Dab a small amount of olive oil onto a clean microfiber cloth and rub it into the wood in a circular motion to restore the shine of the wood. Wipe clean.

Related Stories

How to Clean Wood Cabinets and Cut Through Grime Using Vinegar and Dish Soap

How to Safely Clean Mold Off Wood, According to Professionals

How to Remove Water Stains With Mayonnaise

Another unexpected way to remove water stains from wood? Mayonnaise. "Mayonnaise works well to treat heat stains, or white stains on wood from fluid," says Poepping.

1. Dip a microfiber cloth in a bit of mayonnaise.
2. Dab the mayonnaise onto the stain, continuously wiping the spot clean as you work.
3. For stubborn stains, let the mayonnaise sit for about two hours.
4. Once the stain has lifted, apply natural wood cleaner to a microfiber cloth and wipe clean.

How to Remove Water Stains With Olive Oil and Salt

Olive oil and salt is another effective way to remove water stains from wood, as the salt helps absorb the moisture. Here's how to do it, according to Sokolowski.

1. Mix equal parts salt and olive oil.
2. Apply the mixture to the stain and gently rub it in using a microfiber cloth.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a clean, damp cloth.

Tips for Cleaning Wood Furniture

Since water can stain wood furniture, it's important to be careful when cleaning your wood pieces. Ensure the water doesn't stay in contact with the wood too long. Wipe down your furniture using a microfiber cloth dampened with soapy water and quickly wipe dry with a clean cloth.

In addition to frequent cleaning, aim to polish your wood furniture every six to eight weeks to keep it well-conditioned. Avoid using abrasive chemicals and products when cleaning wood, keep it out of direct sunlight, and always use coasters.