Wood furniture can be susceptible to heat or moisture, and it only takes a few seconds to create a water ring mark from a glass, vase or coffee cup. However, if the mark is white (rather than brown or black) like the one in the picture below - don’t panic! Because there is a simple DIY solution which we have outlined below.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin, you'll need the following materials:
- An iron
- A clean tea towel or cotton cloth
Step 2: Preparing the Surface
Before you start the restoration process, ensure that the surface of the wood furniture is clean and free from any dust or debris. Use a mild surface cleaner to gently wipe down the affected area, and allow it to dry completely.
Step 3: Setting Up the Iron
Plug in your iron and set it to a low or medium heat setting. It's crucial to avoid using high heat, as it can cause further damage to the wood. If your iron has a steam function, make sure it is turned off to prevent further moisture damage.
Step 4: Protecting the Wood
Take your clean tea towel or cotton cloth and fold it into a square shape. This will act as a protective barrier between the iron and the wood surface, preventing direct contact and potential damage from the iron.
Step 5: Applying Heat
Place the folded tea towel over the white circle on the wood furniture. Ensure that the entire affected area is covered. With the iron set to a low or medium heat, gently press it onto the tea towel. Start with a light touch and gradually increase the pressure as needed.
Step 6: Moving the Iron
Using circular motions, slowly move the iron over the tea towel for approximately 10-15 seconds. The gentle heat will help to lift the moisture or heat stain from the wood surface.
Step 7: Checking the Progress
After a few seconds, lift the tea towel and inspect the wood surface. You should notice the white circle gradually fading away. If the stain persists, repeat steps 5 and 6 until the desired results are achieved. Avoid leaving the iron in one spot for too long, as it can potentially damage the wood.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once the white circle is completely removed, allow the wood to cool down before applying any furniture polish or wax. This will ensure that the surface is not susceptible to further damage.
Remember to be careful of moisture on furniture in future! The easiest way to avoid future damage is to invest in some coasters or placemats.
