Most of us would pay for Clorox wipes for the convenience of maintaining our homes clean and free from germs. In thousands of households, these premoistened disinfecting wipes have become standard for their ability to rapidly wipe down surfaces and kill bacteria and viruses. But as great as they are for so many surfaces—countertops, bathroom fixtures, doorknobs, etc.—you might be wondering if Clorox wipes can safely be used on a piece of wood furniture, like say your dining room table.
Safe Cleaning Practices: Using Clorox Wipes on Finished Wood Tables
It depends on the type of wood and finish. Typically, Clorox wipes can be used with finished wood that has some protection layers laid on it, such as a paint finish, a varnish finish, or a stain finish. These finishes very well keep the solution out of the wood. Therefore, if you have a modern wood table that has been treated recently, it shouldn't do much harm to clean it every now and then with Clorox wipes.
As always, it's good to test in a small, inconspicuous area first before treating the entire surface. That way, you'll be able to check for a bad response, such as discoloration, clouding, or removal of the finish. Some types of wood and finishes may be more sensitive. For instance, Clorox wipes contain harsh chemicals that are likely to damage the finishes of fragile antique furniture and some oiled finishes.
If there are any ill effects during your spot test, discontinue your use of the wipes and use them on more gentle cleaning methods. Where your beautiful and priceless wood furniture is concerned, it's always best to be safe rather than sorry.
And remember that with finished wood, don't apply Clorox wipes with a heavy hand: the wipes should be wet but not dripping. Don't let the cleaning solution pool on the surface or you may have streaks. And work with the grain. Dry the surface afterward with a clean, dry cloth to eliminate residual moisture.
Understanding the Risks: When to Avoid Using Clorox Wipes on Wood Tables
It's good to know that even with a sealed wood table, the use of Clorox wipes can have the ability to make that finish look dull when used too frequently, again, just due to the harshness of the chemicals. It's better to use a milder method for routine cleaning.
For the most part, a simple solution of warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap applied with a soft cloth will keep everyday dirt and grime in check. For really heavy soil, look for a cleaner that is formulated specifically to be safe for use on wood furniture.
Unfinished, unpainted, or untreated wood should never be cleaned with Clorox wipes. This includes raw wood, as well as wood that has only been oiled or waxed without a protective sealant. The chemicals in the wipes will be driven right into the wood fibers and may cause discoloration, warping, swelling, and other forms of damage that could be difficult or impossible to repair.
If you don't know for sure whether the wood table is finished or unfinished, err on the side of caution. Do not use Clorox wipes. Stick with a mild wood cleaner or a mild soap and water mix. When in doubt, check the manufacturer's recommendations for furniture care or contact a professional cleaning service for recommended cleaning methods for your specific furniture piece.
Tips for Maintaining the Beauty of Your Wood Table
In addition to choosing the right cleaner, there are a few other tips that you should consider with respect to maintaining the beauty of your wood table:
- Always have coasters for your drinks. It won't leave water rings and stains on your furniture.
- Utilize placemats and trivets to save the surface of the table from hot dishes or serving ware.
- Dusting on a regular basis can be done with a soft, clean cloth or a microfiber duster to prevent gritty particles from collecting that may eventually scratch the finish. Kristen Smith, head manager of Cleaning Services Austin, recommends dusting your home furniture at least once per week to maintain its appearance and longevity.
- Avoid setting the table in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this will cause its color to fade and the development of cracks over time.
- For any marks or dings, a touch-up pen or fill stick matching the color can be used to hide the damage.
- A professional furniture restorer is in a position to advise as to how the problem of deeper scratches or more extensive damage can be rectified.
With the following tips in mind, your wooden table will look great for many years. Remember that Clorox wipes are handy for a few quick cleanups but by no means the way to go when maintaining wood surfaces. When in doubt, reach for a gentler method of cleaning in order to keep all the natural beauty and durability that wood furniture offers.
Conclusion
Clorox wipes can safely be used on finished wood tables or sealed wood, but it is best to test them on a small inconspicuous spot and try to use them in minimal amounts. Also, remember that unfinished wood has to be cleaned by less aggressive means in order to reduce the potential for permanent damage. With proper care and attention, your wood furniture can remain a beautiful and functional part of your home for generations.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia Poglianich
Content Strategist
Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the wooden crafts and 3D product design space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.
