How to Clean an Antique Wood Inlaid Tray

Pour 1/4 cup of gum turpentine into a glass jar and add 3/4 cup of boiled linseed oil. Blending these two liquids creates an organic wood cleaner. Secure the lid to the jar and shake the contents thoroughly.

Run a strip of masking tape, on the underside of the tray, going from end-to-end. Overlap additional strips working toward the outer edges of the tray. This helps to prevent drips and dribbles from staining the wood, or fabric, of the tray’s bottom. Trim off the ends of the tape flush with the base of the tray. Some antique trays have metal handles or feet; tape them off too, before you begin cleaning.

Pour a small quantity, about 1/4 cup, of hot water into a shallow container and pour 1/4 cup of the turpentine-oil mixture over the top of the water.

Tear off a wad of the steel wool and form it into a small pad. Dip one end of the pad into the floating solution. Try not to overload your pad because it will dribble beyond the work area.

Rub the dampened steel wool along a 2-inch section of an outside edge of the tray. Work in the direction of the grain and apply gentle pressure on the wad. The steel wool acts as an abrasive, while the solution works as a cleaner.

Wipe away the gritty debris left from the cleaning procedure with a clean rag. Keep the rag nearby and use it frequently. Re-moisten the steel wool as needed and continue rubbing until you have cleaned the entire edge.

Check the color and consistency of your cleaning solution often. Discard and replace it when it becomes dark or thick with dirt and grime.

Shift your steel wool to an inside edge of the tray. Work your way around the perimeter of the tray in 2-inch increments. Always rub in the direction of the grain. Gradually work your way to the center of the tray. The cleaning solution or steel wool will not harm the wood inlay.

When you've cleaned the entire surface, buff the whole tray briskly with a clean rag to enhance the natural luster of the wood. Use a puff of canned air to remove tiny remnants of steel wool that may have become lodged in tray corners.