What Do I Use to Clean My Dining Room Table?

Dining room tables can be the centerpiece of the room, and should be maintained properly to remain an attractive furnishing. While there are several retail products that can clean a dining room table, these items can be expensive. Instead, consider making your own, inexpensive cleaning solution, made from items most likely already in the home. Does this Spark an idea?

Wooden Dining Room Tables

Most dining tables are made of wood or glass. For wooden tables, there are several homemade cleaning options. For wooden dining tables, oil-based ingredients work best to clean and restore the shine on varnished tables. In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups water and 1/2 cup lemon oil or vegetable oil. Both work the same, but the lemon oil will create a citrus-scented cleaning product. Spray onto the table and wipe away with a clean cloth.

For unvarnished tables, use a bowl to mix 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup olive oil. Dip a cloth in this solution, ring out thoroughly, then rub over the table's surface, using long, wide strokes to distribute evenly. Repeat until the entire table has been cleaned, and let air dry.

Glass, Metals, and Similar Items

Some dining tables are also made of glass, metals, hard plastics and similar materials. All of these tables can be cleaned with the same basic cleaning solutions.

Vinegar works to clean, disinfect and deodorize these surfaces. In a spray bottle, mix a solution of 2 cups water, 1 cup distilled white vinegar and 10 drops liquid dish detergent. Spray directly onto the table surface and wipe with a clean cloth. This will clean the table, while leaving a streak-free shine behind.

Isopropyl alcohol also works to clean and disinfect, and is available for a few dollars per bottle at any drug store. In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups water, 2 cups isopropyl alcohol and spray onto the dining table. Clean with a damp cloth, and repeat when necessary.

Baking soda also cleans and deodorizes, and costs just a few dollars for a large box. In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups water, 1 cup baking soda and 10 drops liquid dish detergent. Spray onto the table's surface and wipe with a clean cloth.