Furniture polish: composition, types, nuances of use

Polished furniture has a very “ceremonial” appearance. It is quite specific, but many people like it. The difficulty is that it is easy to spoil a shiny surface, but it is difficult to restore its attractiveness. Often the only solution is to polish the furniture.

Polished furniture is good in classic interiors

The most common problem is scratches. You can also get rid of small ones using polishes with special properties. Deep ones, with damage right down to the wood or veneer, can only be removed by new polishing (if it is old Soviet-era furniture coated with nitro varnish). To do this, first completely remove all the old coating, then apply varnish and sand the entire part. That is, polishing furniture - new or old - occurs according to the same algorithm, with the only difference being that the old layer of varnish has to be removed.

If the product is newer, it is most likely covered with a thick layer of varnish. If the scratch is deep, but does not reach the veneer or wood, the situation is somewhat simpler. First, the scratched layer is cleaned off with 80 and 120 grit sandpaper. Then it is sanded with increasingly finer grains. Next, one or two layers of varnish are applied and, after drying, polished.

Another case when furniture polishing may be required is when the varnish becomes cloudy or yellowing. This happens often. The treatment is also not easy - completely removing the old varnish and applying a new one with polishing. Problems with all other marks that cannot be removed by conventional means are solved in the same way (read about the restoration of polished, veneered, wooden furniture here).

Varnishing can only be done on a horizontal surface.

One more point: furniture polishing is done only and exclusively in a horizontal position. To do this, you often have to take everything apart. It's difficult, but there is no other way out. You can only work on a horizontal surface.

Rating of furniture polishes

When compiling the rating, our team’s experts studied many reviews, reviews of photo and video formats. We also consulted with experienced household chemical sales specialists. Their knowledge and experience helped us formulate a list of criteria by which we compared products:

• Release form;
• Active formula;
• Purpose;
• Expected results;
• Consistency, smell;
• Packaging format, volume, consumption;
• Price, manufacturer's reliability.

The result of the comprehensive study was a top list of 7 positions. These are universal-purpose cleaning formulas, formulations with wax, and dust protection products that have received high customer ratings. Monitoring reviews identified their strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

Plastic is a fairly soft and pliable material that requires careful and regular care, even more than metal car parts.

Over time, plastic parts inevitably fade and become more fragile due to abrasion and exposure to ultraviolet radiation. However, you can restore the original attractive appearance of plastic using a high-quality polish.

Auto stores offer a great variety of different auto cosmetics of this nature, but it is important to purchase only the best for your car. Our rating presents the highest quality options for such products, the effectiveness of which is confirmed by numerous reviews from real customers.

The best all-purpose furniture polishes

When selecting nominees for the first category, we considered only universal-purpose household chemicals for processing materials of various types. The multidisciplinary operating principle ensures not only cleanliness and shine, but also an antibacterial and antistatic effect. ChoiceExpert approved 3 products.

HG

Furniture polishing aerosol from the Dutch brand “HG” for the care of wood coverings. A few days after treatment, the surface remains clean. Removes dust, grease stains, fingerprints, scratches.

It contains natural oils that nourish the wood, covering it with a special film. The coating will be protected from external influences. It has water-repellent properties, which means that if water accidentally gets in, the wood will not get wet or swell.

It comes in an aerosol can and has a pleasant smell. When used, it does not harm the organs of vision or smell. The nominal volume is 300 ml, it is used sparingly, just 1-2 clicks on the sprayer are enough.

Advantages:

• Contains natural oils;
• Pleasant aroma;
• Hypoallergenic;
• No divorces;
• Forms a protective film;
• Easy to use.

Flaws:

• The coating is not shiny;
• Price.

Degreases and disinfects product surfaces without compromising their appearance. Does not require rinsing, does not cause allergic reactions or irritation on the epidermis. Store in a dry place, avoiding direct sunlight.

Grass A4

Furniture polish cleaner from the Russian brand “Grass” restores and preserves the natural appearance of wooden coverings. Cleans from accumulation of dust, grease stains, and has antistatic properties.

Contains polydimethylsiloxane emulsion, methylchloroisociazolinone, methylisociazolinone. After treatment, small scratches disappear on the coating and a protective film is formed. It has an unobtrusive aroma, so polishing is allowed in the presence of children.

The volume of the plastic bottle is 600 ml, the consistency is aqueous. Sprays using a fine spray nozzle. The safety cover operates in 2 positions: spray/off.

Advantages:

• Antistatic result;
• Unobtrusive aroma;
• Ease of use;
• Camouflage scratches;
• Good volume.

Flaws:

• Fully chemical content;
• Little effort should be applied when rubbing.

The bottle is ergonomic and has grooves for your fingers for a comfortable grip. Spray in an even layer, then rub with a dry rag or microfiber cloth until shiny. Washing off the residue is not necessary.

Cinderella

A budget option for cleaning both polished and unpolished surfaces. Also suitable for plastic, enameled, metal, painted and other products. Country of origin: Russia.

The composition contains a waxy substance, thanks to which a protective moisture-repellent film is formed on top, which does not allow dust to settle for a sufficiently long time. It refreshes the external decoration of coatings, masks small, shallow scratches, gently cleanses, easily removes dirt, grease, surfaces become shiny.

The absence of propellants makes the product environmentally friendly. Does not cause allergic reactions upon contact. The texture is liquid in the form of a spray with a pleasant aroma. Available in a bottle with a volume of 300 ml.

Advantages:

• Versatility;
• Antistatic properties;
• Shine;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Economical consumption;
• Price.

Flaws:

• Small volume;
• Does not remove stubborn stains.

It is recommended to first clean the area to be treated from dust and dirt, and apply the spray only to a dry surface. The bottle must be sprayed at a distance of 30 cm. The table can be treated frequently, walls and other areas - 1-2 times every 1.5-2 months.

The best car polishes

What is polishing

Polishing is a process of finely treating a surface, giving it shine. As a rule, the varnish layer is polished, but the procedure can also be performed on the paint or the material itself. The processing technique is close to grinding, but the fineness of the abrasive in this case is an order of magnitude higher.

There are different degrees of surface gloss. There are glossy finishes that are highly shiny and reflective to surrounding objects. Furniture finished in this way looks elegant, bright, and glares when exposed to light.

Matte surfaces do not reflect light, their shine is very soft. As a rule, matte types of varnish are used for modern furniture, but ancient samples were coated with a special composition (classic shellac), or the wood was simply impregnated with oil, followed by processing with cloth swabs.

Expert opinion

Kokovin Dmitry Vasilievich

Furniture restorer

There are different polishing techniques. The basic method is to apply a special polishing paste to the prepared surface and process it using a polishing wheel made of foam rubber, felt, felt and other materials.

The best furniture polishes with wax

The second category of the top rating presents soft, gentle products containing wax. The main functions are varnishing, removing dirt, preventing dust from sticking. In terms of effectiveness, safety and ease of application, Vyborexperta.ru named 2 products as leaders.

Mebelux with wax

The universal product is suitable for use not only on wood, but also on plastic, metal, chrome, ceramic, glass and marble products. Country of origin: Russia.

The active component is wax, which has a restorative effect. Relieves surfaces from scratches. Facilitates cleaning, cleans, protects against adverse external factors, helping to extend the service life of coatings. With constant use, the coatings acquire a well-groomed appearance.

It has a pungent but quickly dissipating odor. Available in a 300 ml bottle in the form of an aerosol. The sprayer works smoothly; by gently pressing it, you can get the right amount of polish without overspray.

Advantages:

• Suitable for all surfaces;
• Ease of application;
• Economical consumption;
• Makes cleaning easier;
• Reliable sprayer.

Flaws:

• Strong smell;
• Does not disinfect.

In order for the surface to acquire a bright shine, the aerosol must be rubbed vigorously, so Mebelux with wax is only suitable for manual cleaning. Can be used regularly, no rinsing required.

Kloger Active with wax

Polish for wooden furniture of the Kloger Active trademark effectively fights dust and dirt of various types. Protects wooden products from drying out and adds shine to polished surfaces.

Contains natural wax, mineral oil. With the help of these substances, the coating becomes smooth, all small scratches are filled. A protective layer is formed, adding shine. An antistatic film is created that prevents the appearance of dust for a long time.

The 400 ml aerosol can sprays finely without leaving streaks. Covers a large surface to be treated, while being used economically. The formula is completely biodegradable and has an antibacterial effect.

Advantages:

• Copes with complex stains;
• Contains natural wax;
• Biodegradable formula;
• Antistatic film;
• Antibacterial properties;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• If pressed incorrectly, the sprayer may jam;
• No tinting effect.

If you use the chemical regularly, you can maintain the attractive appearance of different coatings even with a very long service life.

Compound

Vegetable oils are used to make the material:

skeleton

linen

soy

sunflower

As for wax, one of three types of this material is used to produce the product:

Carnauba

Extracted from the leaves of the Brazilian wax palm. Refractory material of increased hardness. It is safe to use because it does not emit toxic substances and does not cause allergic reactions. For this reason, oil with the addition of this type of wax can be used to treat wooden furniture even in children's rooms.

Candelilla

Extracted from the Canelilla bush. Refractory material, safe to use. Does not provoke the appearance of negative reactions in the body, does not emit toxic fumes. This, just like with the previous option, allows you to use oil and wax to treat furniture in children's rooms.

Bee

This wax, unlike the two previous materials, is not refractory. Its melting point is only +350C. However, its manufacturers also use it to make furniture polishes. This is not surprising, because the product helps level the surface, gives it an attractive shine, and creates reliable protection from external negative influences.

In addition to the main components, the material usually contains the following components:

• paraffin;
• solvents;
• driers - elements that reduce the drying time of the product;

• dyes - these elements are absent in colorless compositions;
• additives – protect the base from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, which prevents the surface from fading.

The best furniture polishes for dust

The third category of top is the softest, gentlest formulas to protect against dust accumulation. Special components create a film that repels various types of contaminants from the surface for a long time. To maintain cleanliness in the house, VyborExpert recommends 2 nominees.

Chirton anti-dust sea freshness

Household chemicals are suitable for caring for various materials, such as wood, plastic, ceramics, marble, glass. Polishes for a shiny, renewed appearance. Country of origin: Russia.

Does not contain ozone-depleting refrigerants. The composition contains a mixture of silicones that creates a film that can protect the surface from dangerous external influences. Effectively protects against water, oxidation, ultraviolet radiation, and has antistatic properties.

Reduces the risk of scratches and increases the service life of processed materials. After application, no streaks remain. Aerosol can with a volume of 300 ml. The spray has a fresh sea scent, which dissipates after a while.

Advantages:

• Versatility;
• Updates appearance;
• Film formation;
• Antistatic properties;
• Pleasant aroma.

Flaws:

• Does not mask deep scratches.

Do not clean different surfaces with aggressive chemicals, alkali or dishwashing detergent. Chirton contains no more than 5% soft non-surfactants, which are capable of removing dust and stains with high efficiency without destroying the structure of the material.

Pronto anti-dust and anti-allergen

A popular furniture polish according to reviews, it neutralizes up to 90% of allergenic microorganisms. It is universal in purpose, as it cleans any surfaces, including television panels and other equipment. Country of origin: Russia.

The chemical formula is based on silicone. Contains propellant, compressed air. Chemical gases are completely absent, which means the hazardous impact on the environment is reduced. The content of non-surfactants is minimal - no more than 5%. In tandem with other components, it has an antistatic effect and prevents the settling of fine dust.

It is located in a cylinder with a volume of 250 ml. The sprayer works properly and does not jam. The texture is white, creamy with a slightly pungent odor that dissipates after a few hours.

Advantages:

• Neutralization of allergens;
• Low content of non-surfactants;
• Antistatic effect;
• Environmental friendliness;
• Easy to use.

Flaws:

• Small volume;
• Smell.

Cleaning with Pronto furniture polish becomes easy and comfortable. It effectively removes fingerprints and other minor stains and adds a natural shine to the surfaces being treated.

The best online furniture stores

Advantages and disadvantages

Oil-wax has the following advantages:

• Contains natural ingredients. Thanks to this, the product is safe to use. It is non-toxic and hypoallergenic. This allows the material to be used in medical and educational institutions, if such a need arises.
• Versatility . The product can be used on all types of wooden surfaces - different types of furniture, parquet, etc.
• Vapor permeability. This means that the coating does not interfere with air circulation, which means it does not provoke wood rotting or the formation of mold and mildew on it.
• Easy to apply. Even a non-professional can treat the coating with oil-wax if certain instructions are followed.
• Does not change the structure of wood. Consequently, the use of the product does not lead to its destruction.
• Improves the appearance of products. The material levels the surface and gives it a beautiful shine.

• Provides protection for furniture both inside and outside. Thanks to the product, wooden products become resistant to the harmful effects of moisture, high temperatures, and sudden temperature changes. In addition, oil-wax increases the fire safety of interior items.
• Possibility of restoration. If over time, defects appear in places on the coating, it is not necessary to re-treat the entire surface. It is enough to make spot repairs.
• Protects the wood surface from cracking. This is especially true if the furniture is used in a room with heated floors. The fact is that the varnished surface of wood cracks with constant heating and cooling, losing its attractiveness. Using wax oil prevents this problem from occurring.
• Increases the service life of interior items.

No defects were found in the material.

How to choose furniture polish

Despite the large list of characteristics by which such products differ from each other, we recommend paying attention first of all to 4 points - the form of release, the materials processed, the formula, the effects promised by the manufacturer. Let's take a closer look at each point.

Release form

The choice of release form is more a matter of ease of use than of quality and cleaning efficiency. Manufacturers most often offer gels, creams and sprays, differing in consistency, smell, and application characteristics.

Material

Consider the characteristics of the coating you will be treating when choosing the appropriate product. When it comes to wood, it is important that the components do not cause deformation or swelling. Formulas of any concentration level are suitable for glass, ceramics, and plastic.

Compound

When it comes to camouflaging any imperfections, wax is considered the leader. It not only removes dirt, but also extends the period of cleanliness. For faded materials, compositions with coloring components are suitable. Low-quality products will leave streaks and marks.

Effect

A conscientious manufacturer not only indicates the composition on the label, but also lists the promised effects. Universal products are multi-purpose, but for varnish this is not the most suitable option, since it can dry out. Wax promises shine and the formation of a protective film. Many polishes provide an antistatic and antibacterial effect.

Pre-grinding

Polishing furniture is a long process and it begins with sanding. First, all cracks and other defects are covered with wood putty of a suitable color. After it has completely dried (the period is indicated on the label), sanding begins.

A sander is best for polishing wood or veneer. Tape or disk is a matter of taste and preference; it also depends on the complexity of the furniture shape. You will also need a set of sandpaper from coarse (80) to very fine (1200) grit.

In extreme cases, an angle grinder with a special attachment (disc and Velcro) may be suitable. But when working with it, it is difficult to achieve a really good result - there is no required mobility of the sanding platform, so the result of such wood polishing will not be above average.

What you might need to varnish furniture

We start sanding with 80 grit. We use it carefully, removing only large irregularities. Then we repeat the treatment with sandpaper at 120, then at 180 and 240. During the work, we must periodically remove dust and inspect the surface to identify unevenness and other defects. sometimes they are better identified by touch.

Then take water and 320 grit sandpaper. Wet the surface to be sanded and the sandpaper. We sand everything again, but this time with water. At this stage, you should get a good result - everything should be smooth. If everything is satisfactory, we move on; if not, we polish it for some more time.

Which furniture polish is best?

After getting acquainted with the top seven treatment products, choose one option taking into account the specified criteria. Vyborexperta.ru does not give specific recommendations, since everything is individual, but after comparing the advantages and disadvantages, it identifies several nominees:

• HG - an active formula based on natural oils removes dirt of any complexity and has water-repellent properties;
• Cinderella is an inexpensive anti-scratch furniture polish with antistatic properties that add shine;
• Kloger Active with wax - the best biodegradable composition with wax for cleaning and protecting wooden coverings, antistatic, antibacterial effect;
• Pronto anti-dust and anti-allergen is a polish for lacquered furniture with a soft, gentle formula that is safe for health and the environment.

Regardless of what you choose to buy, clean and wipe the surfaces dry before processing. Use soft textile sponges. If you have a sprayer, apply the composition at a distance of 30 cm. For best results, apply force during the procedure.

Varieties

There are several ways to classify material.

Depending on the type of wax:

On hard wax

This category includes products based on Caranuba and Candelilla wax. They add shine to the surface and have water- and dirt-repellent properties. Protects the base shade from fading. The materials are safe to use. Suitable for processing any surfaces.

On beeswax

This product acts in the same way as previous materials, but it has a lower melting point, so it does not increase the fire safety of wooden furniture.

Depending on the shade, the following products are distinguished:

• Colorless. There are no dyes in the composition of such materials. Thanks to this, the furniture retains its original shade.
• Colored. Materials containing dyes. They tint the surface, giving it the desired shade.

Depending on the type of wood, products are allocated for oak, pine, etc.

Both colorless and colored products have the same properties. The only difference is that the latter tint the furniture, while the former do not.

Recommendations for difficult cases

There are a number of cases that are generally considered complex (although this is not always the case). Let's look at them separately.

• Glossy furniture . The main thing is not to make scratches that can no longer be removed. Any glossy coating (film, acrylic, painted) is resistant to acids, acetone, and solvents that corrode the top layer. Remember that polishes are not appropriate here, and soap will add streaks. For gloss, there are special sprays that remove grease and dirt without damaging the coating.

Glossy furniture does not need to be polished with waxes

• Kitchen furniture . The main problem is pollution due to cooking. The simplest solution is dishwashing liquid. It removes odors, grease, and prevents the development of bacteria. Aggressive chemicals should not be used in the kitchen, for the sake of your health.

Use a minimum of aggressive household chemicals in the kitchen

• White furniture gets no more dirty than green or red furniture. And sometimes white is the best choice. For example, handprints, dust, and water droplets are almost invisible on white gloss. If you want to make cleaning as easy as possible, choose furniture with smooth surfaces without panels, milling, or complex textures. Give preference to easy-to-clean materials, such as plastic or painted MDF.

White furniture will not get more dirty than dark furniture if you wipe it regularly

• Lacquered furniture . Various materials can be coated with varnish: veneer, MDF, metal, plastic and, of course, wood. The main task is to prevent chips and cracks from appearing, for example, from impacts, and not to damage the varnish when cleaning. You should not use soap and water; it is better to add a little ammonia. Wipe with a damp cloth.

There are antistatic products for varnished wood

• Antique patinated Patina can be natural (if you are the owner of antique furniture) or artificial. It is applied to solid wood parts and film MDF. The decorative layer on top is varnished, so it won’t be possible to accidentally erase the patina (as some fear).

Artificial patina is abrasion resistant