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Photo: The7Dew / Getty ImagesA single glass left a little too long on your wooden tabletop can easily leave an unwanted water stain behind. But getting rid of water stains on wood can be challenging, especially if it's been sitting unnoticed for some time.
Good news: you probably already have most of the supplies you need to remove those annoying water rings from your wooden furniture, right in your pantry. Start with the gentlest methods, and only move to more drastic options (hello, mayonnaise!) if necessary. Don't get discouraged—you may need to try a few different techniques to get the stain out completely.
The Two Types of Water Stains on Wood
Water stains can appear on your furniture or floor in two ways: either as white marks or dark spots.
- White water stains are typically superficial, affecting only the surface and not penetrating deeply into the wood. This makes them easier to clean.
- Dark water stains have usually been left for a longer period, allowing the damage to seep into the wood. Removing these stains may require more effort, and in some cases, sanding may be necessary.
Before attempting any water stain removal technique, test it on a hidden area to ensure it won't cause additional damage to the finish.
How to Remove White Water Stains from Wood
When it comes to removing a water stain, time is crucial. White water stains only affect the surface layer, so they're quicker and easier to remove from the wood.
Use heat to treat the water stain with an iron or hair dryer
Applying heat from an iron or hair dryer can help loosen the water trapped in the stain, making it easier to lift. For this technique, use an iron on low heat or a hair dryer on high heat.
If using an iron, place a clean white towel or cloth between the iron and the wood surface. A hair dryer, however, can be applied directly to the stain.
If you're ironing, check the stain every 15 seconds to monitor progress. Blow drying will take several minutes before you start seeing results.
Use an oil-based solution like mineral oil, cooking oil, or (yes!) mayonnaise
It may sound counterintuitive, but oil-based products such as mineral oil, cooking oils, or even mayonnaise can help lift a white water stain from wood. To apply, put the oil on a clean white cloth and gently rub it into the surface along the wood grain. Allow it to sit overnight, then buff off any extra oil.
Use toothpaste to tackle the stain
You can apply white toothpaste directly to the stain with a clean white cloth and gently buff it in until the stain disappears.
Make a paste with baking soda
Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, so it can help lift the stain without damaging the finish too much. Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a paste (be careful not to add too much water!). Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the paste into the stain, moving in the direction of the wood grain.
Once you've finished, wipe off any excess paste with a dry microfiber cloth and polish the surface for a smooth finish.
How to Eliminate Dark Water Stains from Wood
For dark water stains, which have penetrated deeper into the wood, you may need to take more extreme measures, such as sanding the area, stripping the finish, and applying a fresh coat of finish.
Try using Bar Keeper's Friend
Oxalic acid can help fade dark water stains, and it's a key ingredient in Bar Keeper's Friend. Use the powdered form sparingly, applying it with a non-scratch scrub pad. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
If the stain remains, you can repeat the process.
Sand, Strip, and Refinish
For persistent dark water stains on wood, try stripping or sanding the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper. If the stain still won't come out, you have three options:
- Mold and Mildew Cleaner. Follow the instructions on the product when applying a mold and mildew cleaner.
- Hydrogen Peroxide. Soak a white cloth in a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, apply it to the stain for 10 minutes, then let it dry.
- Chlorine Bleach. Soak a white cloth in a mixture of one part bleach to four parts water. Let it sit on the stain for 10 minutes, then allow it to dry.
It's crucial to stick to a single method when removing the stain, as mixing cleaning products—particularly bleach and hydrogen peroxide—can be hazardous.
After the stain is removed, you will need to reapply a varnish, wax, or wood oil to restore the finish and blend the treated area with the rest of the wood.
