If it is really dirty carefully wash it with a mild soap & water, rinse with clean water & cloth. This works well for solid timber, be careful if it is ply & is lifting (can still be done, just be extra careful) Contrary to what people think wood doesn't mind water. By washing you won't be oiling over dirt, you will clean it up & if you like it rub with steel wool (000 - 0000) then decide if you are going to wax it, varnish it, French polish. If the wood seems very dry & cracked mix up 50% turpentine & 50% Linseed Oil (raw), shake well & paint on with an old brush. You can do this until it will take no more or just a couple of coats over a couple of days - leave for about a week, sand with very fine sand paper or steel wool (0000), then finish as required. The Turps/Linseed will darken some timbers. On very old wood remember to apply the same to ALL the wood, underside, drawers etc. not just the outside/top. I have done many pieces like this over the last 30 odd years!
I am wondering if anyone could give me some ideas on reviving plastic outdoor furniture.I have had these plastic wicker style chairs for a few years and they are star...
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Murphys Oil soap or orange oil.
If it is really dirty carefully wash it with a mild soap & water, rinse with clean water & cloth. This works well for solid timber, be careful if it is ply & is lifting (can still be done, just be extra careful) Contrary to what people think wood doesn't mind water. By washing you won't be oiling over dirt, you will clean it up & if you like it rub with steel wool (000 - 0000) then decide if you are going to wax it, varnish it, French polish. If the wood seems very dry & cracked mix up 50% turpentine & 50% Linseed Oil (raw), shake well & paint on with an old brush. You can do this until it will take no more or just a couple of coats over a couple of days - leave for about a week, sand with very fine sand paper or steel wool (0000), then finish as required. The Turps/Linseed will darken some timbers. On very old wood remember to apply the same to ALL the wood, underside, drawers etc. not just the outside/top. I have done many pieces like this over the last 30 odd years!