Furniture refinishing question

I’d be grateful for input re: cleaning/restoring wood furniture, along the lines of Bob Marvin’s response to be2bk’s thread about Style of Chair. I’ve inherited several pieces of furniture, nearly all with “condition issues,” running the gamut of worn and scratched surfaces, bubbling veneers, and many, many layers of dust from years of storage. Regardless of damage, the furniture has sentimental value to me. My primary aim is to clean these items, rather than restore them to perfection (which I’d leave to a pro, if I ever went that route). In response to be2bk’s post, Bob Marvin wrote: “The discolored feet (and the finish in general) can be made to look much better in minutes with Old English furniture polish, Howard-Restor-A-Finish, Scott’s Liquid Gold, or a similar product. I especially like the Howard stuff, which Pintchik carries.” I’ve also gotten recommendations to first damp wash with Dawn, followed by naptha or mineral spirits. I’ve been warned off using Murphy’s oil soap. Any other suggestions or cautions re: cleaning and restoring the furniture’s finish would be much appreciated.

By vinca |