How to Clean Used Furniture

Cleaning Used Wood Furniture

• 1

  Dust the wood furniture with a soft cotton cloth to remove all surface debris.

• 2

  Apply a small amount of mineral spirits to the furniture with a cotton cloth to remove built-up wax and grime. Rub it over one area at a time.

• 3

  Apply mineral spirits to crevices and hard to reach areas with a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. Wipe off the mineral spirits with a clean cloth.

• 4

  Mix 1/2 cup Ivory soap flakes with 2 cups warm water. Apply the soap mixture to the furniture with a soft cloth if it still looks grimy. Dampen another cloth with water, wringing out well, and wipe off the soap mixture.

• 5

  Place bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal in drawers to remove strong odors, such as cigarette odors. Remove the bowls after a week.

Cleaning Used Upholstered Furniture

• 6

  Vacuum the furniture carefully with the upholstery attachment of your vacuum.

• 7

  Check for any care labels on the cushions or underneath the furniture. "W" indicates water-based cleaning, "S" indicates water-free solvent, "WS" indicates water-based or water-free cleaners and "X" means dry clean only.

• 8

  Treat stains by mixing 1/8 cup gentle dishwashing liquid, 2 tbsp. vinegar and 2 cups warm water. Blot the stain with a small amount of the soap mixture on a clean cloth. Don't rub the stain as you may ruin the fabric. Rinse with a small amount of cool water and blot dry. Treat fabrics with an "S" label by applying a small amount of dry cleaning solvent to the stain on a clean, white cloth. Blot the stain well. Open the windows or run a fan to provide ventilation.

• 9

  Remove covers from cushions and zip them shut. Also remove any slipcovers. Wash them in cold water on a gentle laundry cycle. Air dry and replace them on furniture when they are almost dry. The following fabrics can be laundered: canvas, denim, gingham, ticking, toile, brocade, tapestry, chenille, corduroy and microfiber, providing that they have been preshrunk.