How do I get watermarks off of a wooden table?

Question

Not only are there watermarks, but there are also marks from where I've put hot things down. Is there anyway to get rid of these marks without refinishing the table?

Answer 1

With the water marks, I use mayonaise or peanut butter. Rub it in , and if the marks are really bad- leave a coat on overnight. Next day, polish it off.

For the heat marks, the usual treatment is either cigarette ash and lemon juice, rubbed in one direction. I don't know if other ash types would work, though I have simply burned a bit of paper to use as the ash. It is just a fine abrasive, and the lemon juice help the wood. You can also use paste type toothpaste, the old fashioned sort, not the gel kind.
With the watermarks, the rings will reappear when the oil you replaced dries out, and you will need to reapply it again. A good paste polish works wonders.

I know these things work because I have several pieces of wood furniture and antiques, and 4 children at home. I use these with my own things, so I know they also will not hurt your furntiture.

Answer 2

Depending on the finish of your table it could be a whole refinish and if you want a good cleaner to try then Marveer is fantastic on timber

Answer 3

Dab with mayo, then add a little bit of cigarette ashes and rub in. Wipe off and repeat. The mayo penetrates the wood, and the ashes actually replace the bleached color.

Answer 4

Try wiping with a cloth dampened with white vinegar.