How To Remove Coffee Stains From Wood

Coffee spilled on wood can be wiped up immediately with almost no telltale staining. Allowed to set, the coffee may leave a tough stain on wood floors or a treasured piece of furniture. Most coffee stains can be removed using household supplies without sanding or using harsh chemicals on wood. Distilled white vinegar, for example, is a weak acid that dissolves coffee stains without harming the wood.

Step 1

Wet a wad of paper towels in water and pour 1/2 tsp. of liquid soap or a mild detergent onto the towels.

Step 2

Wipe away as much of the coffee stain as possible and blot the area with a fresh application of paper towels.

Step 3

Pour one tsp. of white vinegar onto the stain and let it set for a minute. Wipe away the vinegar and dissolved coffee with clean paper towels. Let the wood air dry completely.

Step 4

Polish or wax the wood to restore the natural shine. Pour 1 tsp. of wood polish or remove the equivalent amount of a wax paste from the package onto a clean buffer cloth and rub into the wood in a circular motion. Allow the polish or wax to dry, typically half an hour, then buff with another clean cloth to shine. Repeat until the wood achieves the appearance you desire.