Furniture lacquering is a coating technique that consists of applying several layers of lacquer depending on the surface and the finish you want to achieve. Its main purpose is to protect wooden furniture from the passing of time, although it has also become a decorative and design resource with very recognisable technical and aesthetic qualities.
Today, furniture lacquering is usually carried out with layers of polyester or polyurethane which, together with sanding and polishing, create smooth, resistant surfaces with different levels of shine depending on the chosen finish.
Lacquered furniture is usually better protected against daily use, stains and colour wear. Even so, it needs proper care to keep its appearance for longer. At Lola Glamour, as designers and manufacturers of wooden furniture, we share some basic advice on how to clean lacquered furniture without damaging its finish.
How to clean lacquered furniture: basic care
The best way to keep lacquered furniture looking good starts with prevention. It is advisable to keep it away from direct heat sources, such as radiators or stoves, as excessive heat can affect the finish over time.
If the furniture is white or very light in colour, it is also best to avoid constant direct sunlight. Over time, sunlight can slightly alter the tone of some finishes, reduce their intensity or make them look duller.
For regular cleaning, the safest option is to use neutral soap or a mild detergent diluted in water. Apply the mixture with a soft, slightly damp cloth and then dry the surface with another clean, dry cloth to avoid water marks.
A microfibre cloth can also be used to remove daily dust. It is important to avoid scouring pads, abrasive products or overly aggressive cleaners, as they can scratch or alter the shine of the lacquer.
How to clean lacquered furniture with specific stains
With daily use, specific stains can appear on the surface. In these cases, knowing how to clean stained lacquered furniture helps preserve the finish without resorting to overly aggressive methods.
For light stains, it is always best to start with warm water and neutral soap. Dampen a soft cloth, clean the area gently and dry it immediately with a clean cloth.
If the furniture has yellowed due to sun exposure or has lost its shine, it is best to act with caution. Some products, such as hydrogen peroxide, universal polish or certain cleaners, can alter the finish if they are not applied correctly. Before using them on a visible area, always test them on a less exposed part of the furniture.
If the furniture has become dull, it is also better to avoid aggressive mixtures if you do not know the exact type of lacquer. On delicate finishes, the safest option is to ask the manufacturer or a professional before applying products such as turpentine, oils or intensive cleaners.
Marker or pen marks can sometimes be removed with a slightly damp cloth, but it is not advisable to rub too hard. If alcohol is used, it should be applied with great care, tested first on a hidden area and dried immediately afterwards.
Grease stains or fingerprints are usually cleaned well with warm water and neutral soap. In specific cases, a very small amount of highly diluted ammonia may be used, always with good ventilation, without mixing it with other products and drying the surface completely afterwards.
If the stain is deep or does not disappear, it is not advisable to sand or relacquer the furniture without experience. In these cases, it is best to contact a carpenter, restorer or specialist to avoid damaging the piece.
How to clean white lacquered furniture
White lacquered furniture requires a little more care because any change in tone, mark or loss of shine is more noticeable. For daily cleaning, use a microfibre cloth slightly dampened with warm water and neutral soap.
Then always dry the surface with a soft cloth. This step is important to avoid water marks and preserve the clean appearance of the finish.
Avoid placing white lacquered furniture in areas with constant direct sunlight. It is also best not to place damp objects, candles, hot containers or cleaning products directly on the surface without protection.
Products to avoid on lacquered furniture
To preserve the finish, avoid abrasive products, scouring pads, strong solvents, bleach, cleaners with particles, unsuitable waxes and any product that is not recommended for lacquered surfaces.
It is also important not to mix cleaning products. If you have doubts about a specific finish, the most sensible option is to test the product on a hidden area or ask the manufacturer directly.
Daily cleaning of lacquered furniture
To remove dust, a soft cloth or microfibre cloth is enough. If there are fingerprints, you can use warm water with a few drops of neutral soap and dry the surface carefully afterwards.
The key is to clean without soaking the surface, avoid aggressive products and always dry the furniture at the end. With these simple care tips, lacquered furniture will better preserve its shine, colour and original appearance.
