Best way to clean, strip, and preserve veneer wood

Question

I have three large Waterfall dressers given to my kids and they are just stunning. However, I want to fix some chipped places, clean them up and possibly strip them. 
Would like to know best products to use since it's veneer. And any advice from folks who have experience with stripping veneer.

Lagree Wyndham · Answer

You can strip veneer the same as solid wood, however be careful you may lose some of your wood detail (grain pattern) can actually be lost when stripping. I do not know what is called, some type of laminate patter?? Sorry that's my best description I lost some detail on a painted bed,,I had no idea what was under the paint...so be careful if you do strip. Yours may not be that way, but the strip between the upper and lower drawers makes me think that it is. Others will no better than me.

But your pieces look so good I would try using ta Formby's product that will bring back the life to finish and color in any nicks and scratches. I am sorry I do not know the specific product name...it may be the re finisher, But I am not sure, I have a shop full of it and can not think of the name.

Janet Pizaro · Answer

If you want a non-toxic stripper I would use Citristrip found atHome Improvement stores. It is safe for an indoor environment.

Sarah · Answer

I used a liquid sand paper (forget the name) from Home Depot. It was gentle enough to remove the shine so I could refinish.

Franny Monaghan Lathe · Answer

I agree with the Homer Formby's . I have used it a lot . At my local Lowes it was $15.00 a can. I buy more than I think I would need so I don't run out mid work. I used 4 cans on a shelf set. If the piece as dried up varnish on it like the vanity I redid you may be able to get away with just lightly sanding it . but nothing rougher than 120 grit. You could find a small spot and try sanding it. If the finish comes off easy and is real powdery you may be able t tackle it that way . Take your time .

Tricia Jackson Jones · Answer

I have used Formby's as did Franny. Loved it and it did not damage the veneer. It just took off the darker bits of stain and varnish. Would not use anything else.

Michelle Leslie · Answer

Hi Maggie, this video will show you how to strip veneer - yes you can. This video tutorial will show you how - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmuCZMQTih0

Cynthia H · Answer

Hi! This is what I use on vintage and antique furniture:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08MVVPQ14/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_CZ7ZHGQJ0YAT3BRT8D46

Holly Lengner - Lost Mom · Answer

There are lots of veneer projects here that may be able to help: Home and Garden DIY Ideas | Hometalk

Lifestyles Homes · Answer

Your pieces are not in that bad of shape, considering they’re 100 years old.

I would not go through the mess and potential risk of stripping them.

I would buy both a bottle of Old English Light Scratch Cover and a bottle of Dark Scratch Cover. It has a conditioner in it too.

Start with the Light and see how it’s working. Then go back with the dark In selected areas, if need be.

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Hi,

You could burnish the pieces and then re- finish.

Best way to clean, strip, and preserve veneer wood

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Best way to clean, strip, and preserve veneer wood

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