How do i get rid of the sticky build-up of wax off my woodwork (molding) in the house? Humidity makes it worse

Question

I don't really want to strip the woodwork. I would just like to get it cleaned off, if possible.

Answer 1

I had the same problem when I moved into my recently purchased house. The people who lived there before me fried a LOT food. I had black grease all over the cabinets. I used Goo Gone to get it all off. I sprayed it on, let it sit for a few seconds, wiped it off, and then used a soapy sponge to get the remaining residue. Works great!

Answer 2

All these answers so far are fine as far as they go.

Do you have a moisture/mildew problem? What's the air circuation like in that particular location? Do you live near an area of heavy air pollution? The answers to these questions might help you be more successful.

If there's outside environmental deposits, then windows may need to stay closed. If there is no air ciruclation, then maybe windows need to be opened or ceiling fans installed.

Is this woodwork stained or painted?

On painted walls, I have used Trisodium Phospate (TSP) to remove years of cigarette smoke with a Bee Mop. Gloves are recommended. You must rinse the TSP and change the rinse water often. If your woodwork is painted, that may be the way to go.

If it's painted baseboards and quarter-round, then a plastic pot scrubby dipped in hot water and ammonia will remove dirt. This, too, must be rinsed. Gloves and good ventilation are essential, too. Ammonia is the best for removing wax buildup from all kinds of floors.

Murphy's Oil Soa[ is great on stained wood but it is so gentle and may require many appications to get off thick grime. It also must be rinsed off.

Once you've gotten rid of the stickiness, air circulation and/or de-humidification may be the best way to prevent future build-up.

Answer 3

very fine 4O (oooo) steel wool and a polish, prefably a non wax build up (non silicone based) like guardsman or panel magic.
spray the steel wool and scrub the wood.make sure there is plenty of polish on the wool so you don't scratch the wood

Answer 4

I would go with Chef Ed, Murphys oil soap is the key, PS although goo gone is great at removing stains on appliances, but I wouldnt suggest it on wood it can lift the stain.

Answer 5

Ammonia full strength on a rag. Open windows first. It will dissolve the wax.

Answer 6

Get a bottle of "Murphy Oil" at your local grocery store. Follow the directions on the bottle. Works great!!!!

Answer 7

Drive them away every time by burning an oil soaked cloth wrapped around a broomstick. Smoke should do the job. Or burn the hive.

Answer 8

Try the old fashioned "Soilax" available at hardware stores. It might work.

Answer 9

make up a mixture of baking soda and water, that will to the trick.

Answer 10

lemon