White water marks on wooden furniture can be caused by both heat and moisture. Usually shaped like the circumference of a warm cup of tea mistakenly placed on a wooden surface without a coaster. The heat of the mug opens up the pores of the wood and moisture enters the wooden surface. Once the surface has cooled the pores close trapping the moisture within, causing the white marks to appear.
Follow these handy steps to remove white ring marks and return your wooden surface to its original splendour.
Remove white ring marks with these handy tips
Method 1 – White tooth Paste
What you will need for the job
- White tooth paste
- A damp cloth
Step 1
Wipe down the surface, make sure it’s clean and dry
Step 2
Apply the toothpaste to the water damaged area, rub it in with your finger until you have a smooth thin layer
Step 3
Let it sit for 30 seconds to a minute, nothing more or you may end up removing the finish from your wood
Step 4
Gently rub the toothpaste away with a damp cloth, but don’t press down too hard.
Step 5
The white stain should now be removed, if not give method 2 a try
Method 2 – Steam Iron
What you will need for the job
- A steam iron
- A thin tea towel or old t-shirt
Step 1
Wipe down the surface, make sure it’s clean and dry
Step 2
Set your steam iron to a medium heat and make sure the steam feature is on
Caution: Don’t set the heat too high as this could make the white water mark worse
Step 3
Lay your tea towel or t-shirt over the water damaged area
Step 4
Gently circle the iron over the tea towel, make sure you don’t leave it one spot as this could cause more damage
Step 5
Every 5–10 seconds lift the towel to see if it has worked, stop once the stain has disappeared.
If neither of these methods has worked it may be time to call in the professionals. Our highly trained wood experts here at Terry Waters French Polishing have years of experience in wood restoration and onsite remedial work. Call TWFP for any other fireproofing and French polishing services on 01827 874 535 or email us at info@twfp.co.uk