How To Clean Mildew Off Antique Wood Furniture

Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on wood furniture, especially in humid environments. It can cause the wood to discolor and become damaged. If you have antique wood furniture that has been affected by mildew, it is important to clean it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are a few steps on how to clean mildew off antique wood furniture:

1. Identify the type of mildew. There are two main types of mildew: surface mildew and embedded mildew. Surface mildew is the most common type and it is characterized by a white or gray powdery growth on the surface of the wood. Embedded mildew is less common and it is characterized by a black or brown growth that has penetrated the wood.

2. Clean the surface mildew. If the mildew is on the surface of the wood, you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the mildew away. Be sure to rinse the wood thoroughly with clean water afterwards and dry it with a clean cloth.

3. Clean the embedded mildew. If the mildew has penetrated the wood, you will need to use a stronger cleaning solution. You can make a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Apply the solution to the mildew with a soft cloth and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse the wood thoroughly with clean water afterwards and dry it with a clean cloth.

4. Prevent future mildew growth. Once you have cleaned the mildew, it is important to take steps to prevent it from growing back. You can do this by keeping the wood furniture in a dry environment. You can also apply a mildew-resistant finish to the wood.

By following these steps, you can clean mildew off antique wood furniture and prevent it from growing back. This will help to preserve the beauty of your furniture for years to come.