How To Remove Wax Finish From Wood Furniture

Wax finishes are a popular choice for protecting wood furniture, but they can be difficult to remove if you want to refinish the piece. There are a few different methods you can use to remove wax finish from wood furniture, depending on the type of wax and the condition of the finish.

If the wax finish is relatively thin and in good condition, you may be able to remove it with a mild solvent such as mineral spirits or denatured alcohol. Apply the solvent to a soft cloth and rub it into the finish in a circular motion. Be careful not to rub too hard, as this could damage the wood. Once the wax has been dissolved, wipe the surface clean with a dry cloth.

If the wax finish is thicker or more stubborn, you may need to use a stronger solvent such as acetone or lacquer thinner. However, these solvents can be harmful to the wood, so it is important to test them in an inconspicuous area first. Apply the solvent to a soft cloth and rub it into the finish in a circular motion. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when using these solvents, as they can be toxic.

Once the wax has been dissolved, wipe the surface clean with a dry cloth. If there is still some wax residue remaining, you can remove it with a fine-grit sandpaper. Sand the surface lightly in the direction of the grain until the wax residue is gone. Be careful not to sand too much, as this could damage the wood.

Once the wax finish has been removed, you can refinish the wood furniture as desired. You can apply a new coat of wax finish, or you can use a different type of finish, such as polyurethane or lacquer.

Here are some additional tips for removing wax finish from wood furniture:

Always test the solvent in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage the wood.
Wear gloves and a mask when using solvents, as they can be toxic.
Be careful not to rub too hard when removing the wax finish, as this could damage the wood.
If you are sanding the wood to remove wax residue, be sure to sand in the direction of the grain.
Once the wax finish has been removed, you can refinish the wood furniture as desired.