Water stains can be the most annoying stains to remove from wood. There are two types of water stains that can be appear wood, white and black. White stains occur when the water stain has not penetrated the wood. Black stains occur when the water has penetrated the wood. We have some tips for you on how to remove water stains from wood.
White Stains
1. Rub the stain with mineral oil on a rag. Leave overnight and repeat if it is not reduced.
2. If the stain is not removed, buy mineral spirits, which remove stains in the wax.
3. In a well-ventilated area, apply mineral spirits to a rag and rub into the stain with gloves. If it works, apply a new coat of furniture polish.
4. If the mineral spirits do not work, prepare a mix of baking soda and non-gel toothpaste.
5. Apply the baking soda mixture to a damp rag and rub with the grain.
6. If it works, clean the area and apply furniture wax.
Black Stains (Sanding)
1. Sand the stain gently with sandpaper to remove the finish (#100 grit) and feather edges (#150 grit).
2. Sand the stain with #150 grit and feather edges around the area with steel wool.
3. Remove the sanding dust.
4. Lightly coat the area with varnish several times to match the original finish.
5. Feather the edge of the new varnish with steel wool to eliminate bumps.
6. Use wax to polish the area.
Black Stains (Bleach)
1. Remove the finish of the wood with sandpaper (#100 grit).
2. Pour bleach in a container.
3. Dip a brush in the container and brush over the stain.
4. Wait for a few hours so the bleach can evaporate and the stain can fade to the wood’s original color.
5. Clean area to remove bleach completely.
6. Lightly coat the area with varnish several times to match the original finish.
7. Feather the edge of the new varnish with steel wool to eliminate bumps.
8. Use wax to polish the area.
If none of these processes work, or if you are uncomfortable with repairing your own wood floor, just use TalkLocal. We will connect you with up to three high quality cleaning professionals in your area who will be available to help when you need them.
