How to Clean Wax From Polyurethane Wood Furniture

Mix 1 tsp. of mild, liquid dish-washing soap into 2 cups of warm water. Stir the solution briskly until suds begin to form. Dip a soft cloth into the solution. Wring the cloth firmly to remove any excess fluid. Wash the wood with soap solution, working your way from the top to the bottom. Wipe the soap away with a damp cloth.

Rub waxy residue away with a soft cloth that has been dampened with mineral spirits. Use short, firm strokes that move with the grain of the wood to loosen sticky residue. Sponge with clear water to rinse and pat dry with a soft towel. Allow any soiled cloths to air-dry before disposing of them, giving the solvent time to evaporate.

Create an alternative remedy if you are not comfortable using mineral spirits by pouring 1 cup of boiled linseed oil and ¼ cup of turpentine into a glass bowl. Stir until the two are well-blended. An old-fashioned option, the University of Georgia Extension office declares this mixture safe for use on all wood finishes, except paint. The turpentine dissolves wax build-up, while the linseed oil protects the wood beneath.

Pour 1 cup of hot water into a small glass bowl. Add 2 tbsp. of the turpentine mixture. Do not stir. The oil in the cleanser will form a thin layer that floats on top of the water.

Dip a damp cloth into the oil layer. Squeeze the cloth to remove any excess cleanser. Place the cloth against the wood and gently rub. Use short, soft strokes that move with the grain of the wood. Wipe any excess turpentine away with a damp cloth. Pat dry with a soft towel.

Buff any remaining waxy residue with #0000 steel wool. Lightly rub the wool against the affected area, following the grain of the wood. Use this method only as a last resort. While this grade of steel wool is very soft, there is still a slight risk of scratching.