Wooden internal doors can add a touch of warmth to any home, but keeping them clean is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity. Whether you have an oak door, or an white wooden door – it’s important to know how each wood door differs, and to get on top of your cleaning routine to keep your doors in good nick.
Preparing to clean wooden doors
Before you start cleaning, it’s important to gather the necessary materials first. Wooden doors like a Victorian style, for example, require a bit more attention than a composite or uPVC door – so it’s essential to invest in the right cleaning products that won’t damage your
Cleaning tools:
- Soft cloths
- Microfibre cloth
- Mild soap or detergent
- White vinegar
- Water
- Olive oil or wood polish
- Soft brush or old toothbrush
- Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
How to clean wooden doors at home
Cleaning your internal wooden doors at home is fairly straightforward, but it’s useful to take note of the following tips to make sure you get the most out of your wooden doors.
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and loose dirt from the door surface and trim. This is especially handy for wooden doors with lots of trim – such as 4, 5, or 6 panel doors.
- Wiping: Mix mild soap with water to create a gentle cleaning solution. Dampen a soft cloth in the solution and wring out excess water. Wipe the door surface gently, following the grain of the wood.
Making sure that you dust and wipe your wooden doors regularly will maximise the lifespan of your doors.
Home remedies for cleaning wooden doors
Natural cleaning products or home remedies are often more gentle than regular household cleaning products. Wood can be a sensitive material, and using softer cleaning methods can help to preserve your wooden door for longer.
Cleaning wooden doors with vinegar
- Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Cleaning: Dampen a cloth with the solution and wring out excess water. Wipe the door surface gently.
- Rinsing: Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any vinegar residue.
Olive oil and vinegar polish
- Mixture: Mix 2 parts olive oil with 1 part white vinegar.
- Application: Dampen a cloth with the mixture and wipe the door. This will clean and polish the wood simultaneously.
Baking soda paste
Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste.
Application: Apply the paste to stubborn stains with a soft cloth. Rub gently and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
How to clean wooden doors with glass in them
Wooden doors with glass panels, such as interior doors with glass or half-glazed internal doors, require special care to keep both the wood and glass clean and streak-free.
- Dusting the glass: Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Glass cleaner: Spray glass cleaner directly onto the glass. Alternatively, mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Wiping the glass: Wipe the glass with a clean microfibre cloth in a circular motion to avoid streaks.
- Detailing the edges: Use cotton swabs dipped in the cleaning solution to clean the edges and corners of the glass panels.
Final tips to regularly maintain your wooden doors
Taking care of your wooden doors is relatively simple, but it’s important to clean them regularly to avoid scuff marks and dirt buildup.
- Dust weekly: Dust your wooden doors weekly to prevent grime, pay special attention to the trims on your 2 and 3 panelled doors.
- Polish monthly: Polish wooden doors monthly to maintain their shine and protect the finish.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners: Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on wooden doors, as they can damage the surface.
- Check manufacturer’s Instructions: If your doors came with specific care instructions, follow them closely to avoid voiding any warranties.
Invest in high quality doors with A Wood Idea
Maintaining the quality of your wooden doors is just one aspect of ensuring your home’s look and functionality. For those looking to upgrade or explore a variety of high-quality wooden doors, including stylish Shaker doors, browse our collection or visit our showroom.
Learn more about us and our craftsmanship, or contact us to speak with our experts who can help you choose the perfect door for your needs.
