How to remove water stains from wood veneer

When faced with water stains on wood veneer, timely action is important to prevent any unappealing stains. If a stain is left for some time, the harder it is to remove it. The recommended approach is to soak up any water using an absorbent cloth right away. 

Wood with a wax finish lessens the chances for a stain to set in. In case a water stain penetrates the wood veneer, there are methods that you can try to remove it. Read further to learn ways on how to remove water stains from wood veneer. 

Steps on how to remove water stains from wood veneer using oxalic acid

Let’s now take a look at the steps on how to remove water stains with oxalic acid.

• Pour oxalic acid into a heat-resistant glass jar or bowl. Add hot water and stir to mix thoroughly.
• Wear rubber gloves. Dab the mixture on the wooden surface using a sponge. Make sure that the entire surface is covered, not only the site of the stain. Oxalic acid can trigger a bleaching effect and it is appropriate to evenly distribute the color changes. Let it sit for 20 minutes. During this moment, wash down the heat-resistant glass jar or bowl thoroughly and set aside. 
• Wipe the site using a clean, dry cloth.
• Prepare a solution by mixing 1 teaspoon ammonia and 1-quart water in a glass jar or bowl. Apply to the wooden surface that was exposed to oxalic acid to counteract the bleaching effect. Let it dry for up to 24 hours. 
• Sand the surface and refinish as needed. 

How to get rid of water stains using elbow grease

If you are up for it, you might want to work up a sweat by following this removal method. 

1. Position a clean dry cloth or towel over the stained surface. Switch on the iron to the low setting. Place the iron on the cloth or towel directly over the stain and apply light pressure for 3-5 minutes. If the stain lingers, proceed to step 2. 
2. Apply paste wax on the stain. Rub the site with a ball of steel wool, following the direction of the wood grain. In case the stain fades with this action, continue. If not, proceed to step 3. 
3. Add 3-5 drops of oil onto the wooden surface. Sprinkle pumice powder on top of the oil. Apply a lot of pressure using a clean, dry cloth. Rub the oil and powder into the wooden surface following the direction of the grain. Make sure that you will do the same for the entire surface so that you will have an even finish.

It is important to note that you can buy oxalic acid at a pharmacy while pumice powder is usually found at most hardware stores. Take note though that some wood veneers can be damaged by separation once exposed to the heat of an iron. 

Can mayonnaise remove water rings

Water stains can form on wood furniture no matter how careful you are. These stains can be eliminated with a generous application of mayonnaise. 

Whether it is from a soaked plant, a spill, or a condensing drink, water can set down discolored spots on wooden furniture if not cleaned up immediately. Luckily, there is a simple method that can help you remove these water stains. 

Simply cover the water rings with a generous amount of mayonnaise. Let it sit for up to an hour or overnight. Wipe away the mayonnaise and polish the site with furniture oil. Take note that the mayonnaise will not damage the wood.

How do you get water stains out of fake wood?

Water stains on fake or laminate wood flooring can be due to various factors including excess cleaner and/or mineral residue in the water. In some instances, the water dries up on the surface and the minerals leave behind white areas that look like moisture spots. Simply follow these steps to deal with the issue and get rid of water spots. 

• If the water stains are due to excess cleaner, expect a film to form on the surface. One way to get rid of this film is adding a cup of white vinegar to the container of warm water. Cleanse the floors as usual using the solution. 
• Wash down the site thoroughly with clean water.
• Dry the area with a soft, terrycloth towel. 
• If the water stains are due to mineral deposits, clean the site with distilled water. 
• Saturate a cloth until it is soaked. Wipe the floor clean. 
• Dry the surface right away with a soft towel.
• Work in small sections so that the water will not dry on the floor and result in additional stains.

When dealing with stubborn water stains that cannot be eliminated with the methods above, dab a coating of Turtle wax with a soft cloth or towel. Rub away and buff based on the instructions on the packaging.

Can you remove water stains on wood with a hair dryer?

A water stain can mar the appearance of any wooden furniture. Although you tried your best to protect the surface, you might be surprised to discover a water stain. Luckily, you can deal with one with the help of a hairdryer. 

• Simply set your hairdryer on medium heat and position it two inches away from the stain.
• While heat is being applied, use a napkin or cloth to buff away the mark. 
• Continue wiping until the wood surface is blemish-free.

Final thoughts

Water stains can be unsightly on wood flooring and furniture. Luckily, with the methods described on how to remove water stains from wood veneer, you can readily deal with the stains and restore the pristine appearance of your wood furniture and surfaces.