Keep Abrasive Sponges and Strong Cleaners Off Wood Furniture

The Spruce explains how ammonia, alcohol, excess water and melamine foam can damage a protective coating.

Do not borrow a cleaner from another surface

The Spruce identifies ammonia-based products, rubbing alcohol, oven cleaners and many glass cleaners as poor choices for wood furniture. Their ability to clean glass or remove baked-on grease does not make them compatible with a furniture finish. Melamine foam is another concern because its abrasive action can remove part of the surface. The article's emphasis is preserving the coating rather than finding the strongest available product.

Control the amount of water

A dripping cloth or puddle also presents a risk, even if the liquid is marketed for wood. The experts describe swelling, warping and other moisture damage, particularly on older pieces. For routine cleaning they recommend a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth that has been dampened and thoroughly wrung out. For compatible deeper cleaning, a few drops of mild dish soap in water can be used sparingly, with the surface wiped clean as work proceeds.

The Spruce explains how ammonia, alcohol, excess water and melamine foam can damage a protective coating.