Do you know how to remove black spots from antique wood?

I have acquired an antique dresser that has several black spots embedded on the top of the wood. I have tried to remove them with different cleaners, but so far, nothing is working. I believe it to be dirt from many years of use and other than the spots, it is in good condition. Do you know of any way to remove the black spots without damaging the wood. Thank you, Anne M.

  4 answers
  • Terrie Vaughan Terrie Vaughan on Dec 01, 2017

    Years ago an older friend showed me how to use cigarette ashes and mayo mixed, to remove spots on wood. It worked, not sure the surface we were working on had just black spots or other blemishes but it worked. I was shocked. You might give it a try. If you can find someone who smokes who can save some ashes for you.

    • See 2 previous
    • Anne Roberson Mason Anne Roberson Mason on Dec 01, 2017

      Thank you so much!!

  • Jan Jan on Dec 02, 2017

    I had a cute night stand I purchased from an auction with the same ailmen. Found an answer and it worked. Purchase Bar Keepers Friend make a paste using water. Spread that on the dark spot and leave for 24 hours. Remove and repeat until it’s gone. I had to do it three times But it looks perfect now. If that doesn’t work you’ll have to strip the old finish, sand and refinish it. Good luck!


  • Peter Peter on Dec 02, 2017

    If it's OAK, the black may be Ammonia Stains. They're usually Deep. And Permanent!

  • Can you post a photo? Sometimes it just may be how the stain set when originally finished.