How to remove water rings from a wooden table

15 minutes. Costs nothing to a few dollars.

Try this first (costs nothing): wipe the ring with a dry cloth. A white ring is usually moisture trapped in the finish, not in the wood. Lay a thin cotton cloth over it and warm it with a hairdryer on low for short bursts. Keep the dryer moving.

If the ring is still there

1. Test any product on a hidden spot first.
2. Rub the ring gently with a soft cloth and a small dab of furniture wax or polish, along the grain.
3. Buff with a dry cloth.

Some people use a little mayonnaise or toothpaste. Results vary and they can mark some finishes. Test first, use a tiny amount and use one product at a time.

Dark rings

A dark ring means water has reached the wood. Sanding and refinishing may be needed. For valuable furniture, ask a restorer.

If that does not work

If the finish is cloudy or lifting, it is damaged beyond a quick fix. Wax can cover it for a while. For prevention, use coasters and wipe spills at once.

Skip it if

Skip heat on veneer, which can lift. Warm gently or skip heat altogether. For other stain rescue, see how to get red wine out of carpet.

Worked example

A glass has left a white ring on a dining table. Lay a thin cotton cloth over it and hold a hairdryer on low about 15 cm above, moving it, for 30 seconds. Check. Repeat in short bursts up to a few times. If the ring fades, finish with a little wax and a buff. If it does not fade at all, the damage is probably in the finish and needs refinishing.

Common mistakes

• Rubbing hard with a rough pad. It leaves scratches.
• Holding heat in one place. It can blister the finish.
• Using too much liquid. More water makes more rings.
• Rubbing across the grain. Follow the lines of the wood.

For the polishing cloth, see microfibre cloth vs sponge.