Cleaning fake wood furniture is essential to maintaining its appearance and prolonging its lifespan. Unlike genuine wood, fake wood, often crafted from materials like laminate or veneer, requires special care to avoid damage. Understanding the right cleaning techniques and products is crucial in preventing scratches, discoloration, and warping.
This guide on how to clean fake wood furniture will provide clear and practical methods to clean your fake wood furniture, ensuring it remains looking its best for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with dust, stains, or everyday spills, these tips will help you keep your furniture in pristine condition.
Why Cleaning Fake Wood Furniture is Important?
Fake wood furniture may not be as delicate as genuine wood, but it still requires regular cleaning to maintain its appearance. Dust and debris can quickly accumulate on the surface of fake wood furniture, making it look dull and unattractive. Not only does this affect the aesthetic appeal of your furniture, but it can also lead to scratches and other damage if left untreated.
Moreover, spills and stains can occur easily, especially with daily use. If not cleaned properly, they can leave permanent marks on fake wood furniture, making it look old and worn out. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and keeps your furniture looking new for longer.
Needed Materials
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here are some items you’ll need to clean fake wood furniture effectively:
Microfiber Cloths or Soft, Lint-free Cloths
These cloths are gentle on fake wood and won’t scratch or damage the surface. Avoid using harsh materials like rough sponges or paper towels, as they can leave scratches.
Mild Dish Soap
This will act as a gentle cleanser for removing dirt and grime from your furniture. Make sure to use a mild dish soap without any harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the fake wood.
White Vinegar
Vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that can effectively clean and disinfect surfaces. It’s safe to use on fake wood furniture, but it’s always best to test it in a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.
Water
Plain water will be used to dilute the dish soap or vinegar before cleaning your furniture.
Furniture Polish (optional)
If you want to add a little shine to your fake wood furniture, you can use a non-silicone based furniture polish. However, this is not necessary and should only be used occasionally as frequent use can cause buildup on the furniture’s surface.
8 Steps on How to Clean Fake Wood Furniture
Step 1: Dust the Furniture
Begin the cleaning process by thoroughly dusting the fake wood furniture. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any dust and debris from the surface. It’s important to start with dusting, as removing loose particles can prevent scratches during the cleaning process.
Move the cloth in the direction of the grain, if visible, to ensure you do not inadvertently create swirl marks. Regular dusting not only enhances the appearance of your furniture but also prepares it for deeper cleaning steps that follow.
Step 2: Mix a Cleaning Solution
After you’ve dusted the furniture, the next step is to prepare a gentle cleaning solution. In a bowl or bucket, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water. If you prefer to use a more natural cleaner, substitute the dish soap with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Stir the solution gently to combine the ingredients.
Make sure the solution is not too concentrated, as a mild formula is sufficient for removing dirt and grime while protecting the surface of the fake wood. This solution will serve as the base for the next cleaning steps, helping to maintain the integrity and appearance of your furniture.
Step 3: Test the Cleaning Solution
Before using the cleaning solution on the entire furniture, it’s crucial to test it in a small, hidden area first. This will ensure that the solution does not cause any discoloration or damage to the fake wood. Apply a small amount of the solution on an inconspicuous spot and wait a few minutes before wiping it off with a cloth. If there are no adverse reactions, you can proceed with cleaning the rest of your furniture.
But, if you notice any discoloration or damage, stop using the solution immediately and try a different method.
Step 4: Dip the Cloth in the Cleaning Solution
Once you have confirmed that the cleaning solution is safe to use, dip a clean microfiber or soft, lint-free cloth into the solution. Be sure to wring out the cloth thoroughly so it is damp but not soaking wet.
Excess moisture can seep through and damage the fake wood, leading to swelling or warping. Using a well-wrung cloth will help you control the moisture level as you clean, ensuring the furniture remains in good condition. With your damp cloth, you are ready to move on to the next step and gently clean the surface of your fake wood furniture.
Step 5: Clean the Furniture
Start cleaning the furniture with gentle, circular motions. Work your way from one end to the other, using light pressure as you wipe along the grain of the fake wood.
This will help remove any stains or grime without causing damage to the surface. Be mindful not to scrub too hard as this can create scratches and dullness on your furniture.
Periodically rinse and wring out the cloth to avoid spreading dirt or debris, especially when cleaning larger surfaces like tabletops.
Step 6: Wipe with a Damp Cloth
After you’ve cleaned a section of the furniture, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any remaining soap residue. This will help remove any excess moisture or cleaning solution from the surface. Ensure that you don’t leave any standing water on your fake wood furniture as it can damage its finish.
But don’t worry if there are a few damp spots remaining. These will dry on their own in a short amount of time without causing any harm.
Step 7: Dry the Furniture
Using a dry microfiber cloth or soft, lint-free cloth, gently buff the furniture to remove any remaining water droplets and give it a polished shine.
Be sure to wipe along the grain of the fake wood to maintain its smooth finish. If needed, you can use multiple cloths for larger surfaces to ensure efficient drying and polishing.
Step 8: Optional – Apply Furniture Polish
If desired, you can apply a non-silicone-based furniture polish after thoroughly cleaning and drying your fake wood furniture. This will add a glossy finish and protect the surface from future dirt and grime.
However, keep in mind that frequent use of furniture polish can cause buildup on the surface and should only be used occasionally.
Following these 8 steps on how to clean fake wood furniture will help you clean and maintain the appearance of your fake wood furniture for years to come. It’s important to regularly dust and gently clean your furniture to prevent dirt buildup and protect its surface from damage. With proper care, your fake wood furniture can continue to look like new for many years.
Preventive Measures for Maintaining Fake Wood Furniture
In addition to regularly cleaning your fake wood furniture, there are also preventive measures you can take to maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan. These include:
- Avoid placing hot items directly on the surface of the furniture as it can cause damage or discoloration.
- Use coasters or placemats underneath glasses and plates to prevent scratches and water rings.
- Keep sharp objects away from the furniture’s surface to avoid scratching or gouging.
- If using a tablecloth, make sure it is not too rough or abrasive as it can cause scratches on the finish.
- Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners on fake wood furniture as they can strip off its protective coating.
- If there are any spills, clean them up immediately to prevent the liquid from seeping through and damaging the furniture.
By following these preventive measures on how to clean fake wood furniture and regularly cleaning your fake wood furniture, you can ensure that it remains in good condition for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I Use Furniture Polish on Fake Wood Furniture?
A: Yes, you can use a non-silicone-based furniture polish on fake wood furniture. However, it should only be used occasionally to avoid buildup on the surface.
Q2: What Cleaning Products Should I Avoid Using on Fake Wood Furniture?
A: Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners on fake wood furniture as they can strip off its protective coating and cause damage to the surface.
It’s also recommended to avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool or rough scrubbing sponges as they can scratch the finish of your furniture.
Q3: How Often Should I Clean My Fake Wood Furniture?
A: It’s recommended to dust your fake wood furniture regularly and clean it at least once a month. However, if there are any spills or visible dirt buildup, it’s best to clean it immediately to prevent damage.
Conclusion
Fake wood furniture is a budget-friendly alternative to real wood, but it still requires proper care and maintenance to prolong its lifespan. With these simple steps, you can effectively clean your fake wood furniture without causing any damage or scratches.
Remember to always start with dusting, test any cleaning solution before use, and avoid using harsh materials like rough sponges or paper towels. By following these guidelines on how to clean fake wood furniture, you can keep your fake wood furniture looking clean and polished for years to come.
