How should one clean an antique desk?

Answer 1

There are many good "wax stripping" products out on the market so go to your local hardware store and ask for help there. Get them to explain how you use it and how much to use. It can be a long process, but certainly worth it. Be sure you do this project outside because the fumes can be over-powering. Depending on how old the furniture is, you may be making a mistake taking the wax off - it's the wax that gives it the "old Look" or patina. If you strip it off you may de-value the item. Good luck.

Answer 2

It would depend upon what the original finish is. If the item has been merely wax polished and has gradually built up an age patina, then you could damage the patina, and hence value of the item, with over-zealous cleaning. If the item was French polished (19th century and later), then the piece will withstand a more rigorous cleaning. You might invest in a good book on antiques restoration before attempting any procedures that may damage your item. However, to remove a simple layer of surface dirt, you might try damping a clean cloth with clear malt vinegar and gently wipe down the surface of the piece.

Answer 3

The first thing you need to do is to assess whether there is old wax on your desk, if this is the case, then you need to clean that off first, there are specific solutions to clean off wax. After cleaning it, you need to clean off the residue from the wax-cleaner, this can generally be done with water and maybe some soap. Now you will want to use a wood stain pen to touch up parts of the desk that has scratches or marks. After this, wax it again. And from here it is a matter of taking care of it well, and making sure to keep it dusted and avoid spills / stains etc.

Answer 4

There are entire books written on this subject. Before you do anything that may mar or harm antique furniture please get such a book from your library and read it carefully.