If you’ve ever tried to clean mineral spirits off wood, you know it’s not an easy task. The oil-based solvent is hard to remove and can leave behind a sticky residue. Here are four tips for cleaning mineral spirits off wood:
- Use a degreaser. A variety of degreasers can be used to clean mineral spirits off wood, including household cleaners like ammonia and bleach. Be sure to test the degreaser on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the wood.
- Use a water-and-vinegar solution. Mix 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the mineral spirits soaked wood and let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge.
- Use baking soda and water. Combine 1 cup of baking soda with enough water to make a thick paste, then scrub the paste onto the mineral spirits soaked wood using a brush or sponge. Be sure to rinse off the baking soda before letting the wood dry completely.
- Use rubbing alcohol and lemon juice. Pour 2 ounces of rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle filled with fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon). Mist the solution onto the mineral spirits soaked wood and let it sit for several minutes before scrubbing with a brush or sponge ..