5 Tips on How to Remove Scratches from Wood Dining Table

Introduction

Wood dining tables bring warmth and elegance to any dining room, but they’re also susceptible to scratches from everyday use. We previously discussed how big should dining table be, but let’s look into restoring your table to its former glory is easier than you might think. 

Dining tables that are made with durable materials, such as sintered stone, may not need heavy maintenance. However if you own a wooden table, we’ll cover five tried-and-true tips on how to remove scratches from a wood dining table to keep them looking beautiful.

1. Use Olive Oil and Vinegar for a Small Scratch

One of the simplest and most effective remedies on how to remove scratches from wood dining table involves household items like olive oil and vinegar. These ingredients can nourish the wood while helping to diminish the appearance of scratches.

How to do it:

1. In a small bowl, mix equal parts olive oil and white vinegar.
2. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture, ensuring it’s damp but not dripping.
3. Rub the cloth over the scratch in a circular motion, allowing the oil to penetrate wood furniture.
4. Let the solution sit for a few hours, then buff with a clean, dry cloth.

Why it works:
Olive oil helps moisturize and darken the wood, which can make scratches less visible. The vinegar cleans the surface, and together, they give your table a refreshed look.

2. Apply Wood Filler for Deeper Scratches

For deeper scratches or gouges that penetrate the wood surface, a wood filler might be necessary. Wood fillers are specifically designed to fill in gaps and cracks, making them perfect for restoring a wood table.

How to do it:

1. Choose a wood filler that matches your table’s color.
2. Using a putty knife, apply the filler directly into the scratch, smoothing it out.
3. Allow it to dry according to the product’s instructions (usually around 30 minutes to an hour).
4. Sand the area lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish.
5. Finish with a matching stain or polish to blend the repair with the rest of the table.

Why it works:
Wood fillers create a solid and lasting fix, especially for scratches that can’t simply be buffed out. They bond well with wood, ensuring a seamless, smooth surface after repair.

3. Use a Walnut for Quick Scratch Repairs

If you’re looking for a quick method to fix scratches, grab a walnut from the pantry. Walnuts contain natural oils that can help reduce the appearance of scratches on wood.

How to do it:

1. Break a walnut in half to expose the inside of the nut.
2. Rub the walnut kernel over the scratch, moving along the direction of the grain.
3. Let the oil from the walnut sit for a few minutes to absorb into the wood.
4. Buff the area with a soft cloth until you achieve a uniform finish.

Why it works:
The oils in walnuts are ideal for minor scratches because they seep into the wood and help “fill” the scratch, making it less noticeable. It’s a quick, effective, and chemical-free solution.

4. Try a Homemade Paste of Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda has gentle abrasive properties that make it an excellent choice for buffing out light scratches without causing further damage. This method is particularly useful for varnished wood surfaces.

How to do it:

1. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a thick paste.
2. Using a soft, damp cloth, apply the paste to the scratched area.
3. Rub gently in a circular motion to avoid damaging the finish.
4. Wipe off any excess with a clean, damp cloth, and dry the area with a soft cloth.

Why it works:
Baking soda is abrasive enough to smooth out shallow scratches without removing too much of the surface material. This technique works best for minor scratches on the table’s finish, leaving a smoother appearance.

5. Use Furniture Polish and Scratch Repair Pens for a Polished Finish

Furniture polish or scratch repair pens can provide a quick fix for surface-level scratches. Scratch repair pens, available at most hardware stores, contain a stain that matches your wood and fills in light scratches effectively. 

How to do it:

1. Choose a scratch repair pen that matches your table’s color.
2. Apply the pen directly to the scratch, following the direction of the wood grain.
3. Allow the stain to dry for a few minutes, then buff lightly with a soft cloth.
4. For added shine, apply a layer of furniture polish over the area.

Why it works:
Scratch repair pens are an easy, mess-free solution for light scratches, especially on finished wood surfaces. They allow you to match the exact color of the wood, making them ideal for quick fixes. If you’d like clearer instructions on how to polish your wooden table, Maxi Woods offers more insight!

Extra Tips for Maintaining a Scratch-Free Wood Dining Table

To keep your wood dining table looking its best, here are a few maintenance tips that can help prevent future scratches:

• Use Placemats and Coasters: Protect your table from scratches, spills, and heat marks by placing coasters under hot dishes and placemats under plates and utensils. If you’d like to learn more about the importance of coasters to maintain wooden tables, check out Truffle Bee’s article! 
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can strip the wood’s finish, making it more prone to scratches. Stick to gentle, wood-safe cleaners or a damp cloth for routine cleaning.
• Dust Regularly: Dust particles can scratch wood surfaces when wiped with a dry cloth. Use a microfiber cloth for dusting, and avoid using rough materials on the table surface.
• Polish Periodically: Applying furniture polish or wood conditioner every few months helps maintain the table’s natural oils and reduces the appearance of minor wear and tear.

Conclusion

With these five tips, you’ll be equipped to handle everything from minor surface scratches to deeper gouges on your wood dining table. Keeping your table in top condition doesn’t have to be a hassle, and these solutions use everyday household items and simple tools. Be sure to explore the range of sintered stone dining tables at Tables & Chairs, where you’ll find a blend of durability, functionality, and modern style that’s perfect for any home.