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Wooden Furniture Scratches? Here’s How to Restore Them Like a Pro

Introduction

Scratches on wooden furniture can make even the most elegant piece look aged and neglected. Whether caused by pets, accidental bumps, or daily wear and tear, scratches don’t have to be permanent.

Luckily, you can repair them using simple household items or specialized products. Here’s how to bring back your furniture’s original charm.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

The first step in fixing scratches is understanding how deep they are.

Shallow Scratches: These only affect the surface and are easy to fix.

Medium Scratches: These penetrate deeper and may require staining.

Deep Scratches & Gouges: These need filling, sanding, and refinishing.

Once you determine the level of damage, you can choose the best repair method.

Step 2: DIY Fixes for Minor Scratches

Coconut Oil Polish A simple fix for minor scratches is coconut oil. Apply a small amount onto a soft cloth and rub it into the scratch. This nourishes the wood and restores its shine.

Pencil or Marker Touch-Up If you have a scratch that’s just a shade lighter than the wood, use a matching colored pencil or marker to fill it in.

Rubbing Alcohol and Shoe Polish For medium-toned wood, mix a few drops of rubbing alcohol with dark shoe polish. Apply with a cotton swab to darken the scratch.

Step 3: Methods for Deeper Scratches

Homemade Wood Stain Mix equal parts instant coffee or cocoa powder with warm water to create a DIY stain. Apply it to the scratch and let it dry for a seamless blend.

Petroleum Jelly Treatment Rub petroleum jelly over the scratch and let it sit overnight. The oils will penetrate the wood and help lessen the appearance of scratches.

Step 4: Fixing Serious Damage

Wood Putty or Wax Filler If you’re dealing with a deep gouge, use wood putty or wax filler. Match the shade, fill in the damage, smooth it out, and let it dry.

Re-Staining and Sealing For heavily scratched furniture, lightly sand the damaged area and apply a fresh coat of stain. Once dry, seal it with furniture wax or polyurethane.

Step 5: Maintaining Scratch-Free Furniture

Regular Dusting and Polishing Dusting removes tiny particles that can scratch the surface. Polish wooden furniture every few months to keep it protected.

Use Tablecloths and Coasters Protect tables and wooden surfaces from scratches by using soft tablecloths, coasters, and placemats.

Keep Pets’ Nails Trimmed If you have pets, keep their nails trimmed to prevent scratches on wooden floors and furniture.

Conclusion

Scratches on wooden furniture are inevitable, but they don’t have to be permanent. Whether using household items or professional repair products, you can restore your furniture’s beauty with ease. Try these methods and keep your furniture looking as good as new!