What’s the best wax to use when cleaning your home
When it comes to home cleaning using the right wax can make a big difference.
WHY IS WAX-POLISH USED?
Wax polish works much like car wax: It protects the materials under the wax, while coating the exterior of the material, and adding a shiny, clean quality to the overall appearance. Wax-polish is used to protect the finish that’s already present on your furniture. It also creates a shiny, slick surface that repels dust, grit, dirt, and debris. Wax-polish lacks enough durability to protect outside furniture and other woods, but is very effective when used on interior woods and furniture.
WHEN SHOULD WAX POLISH BE USED?
Wax polish is best applied to wood which has been newly cleaned or recently varnished. Applying a fresh coat of wax over an old coat, will do nothing but create a buildup of wax. New woods should be thoroughly sealed with clear varnish before waxing and polishing.
HOW DO I CLEAN OLD WOOD?
You can remove old wax from wood in several ways:
TURPENTINE
Wax which has been sitting for many years is best cleaned and removed with thinners made of naptha or gum turpentine. Apply turpentine directly to the wood with a soft rag, and rub off (along the grain) with a piece of fine steel wool. You may need to repeat this step several times before completely removing old wax.
OIL
For easier jobs, a simple mixture of 1/4-cup linseed oil and 1/4-cup mineral spirits will work just as well. Apply with an old rag and remove with fine steel wool or paint removing pads.
COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS
There are several wood cleaners and wax removers on the market that require little more preparation than shaking the contents of the bottle. If you’ll be using a commercial pre-mixed product, be sure to read the label.
Not all wax removers can be used on all types of wood or wood finishes. Follow label instructions. Once you’ve cleaned the old wax from the wood, you’ll need to coat the surface with mineral spirits. Use a clean rag and apply spirits liberally. Allow wood to completely dry before proceeding.
Next: More on learning to wax all types of wood.
Tags: Cleaning Tips, wax polish