Windex to Strip Wood Finish?

Question

I sprayed some windex on my solid oak table to remove some caked on food and it softened the finish.  As I plan to strip the table top soon anyway I sprayed about a square foot of the table top and then let it sit for a couple of minutes.  To my surprise the clear finish and stain softened up to the point that I could easily scrape it off down to the bare wood.  Any reason I shouldn't continue to use Windex to strip the whole top??

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

It's shellac on the table, use alcohol to dissolve the shellac.  Windex contains water and raises wood grain.

? · Answer

1

Anonymous · Answer

Strip Wood Finish

Carolyn · Answer

If it works, go for it.  I know that Vick's vapor rub works too, but has is smelly and sticky. (one jar tipped over and leaked, bubbling up finish). 

Windex does not have 'warnings' like most strippers, but still always work with fresh air, preferably outside. If you have to do this project inside, make sure a window is open and have a fan going. 

It may be the vinegar or the ammonia that is softening the finish.  Either way, it should be quick and easy to do this way.  Good luck.

Anonymous · Answer

There's a heat torch like product you can buy.. It looks like an industrial strengh hair dryer.. .It will literally take the paint off in bigger sections, down to the wood ! It's fairly easy to use just point it in the direction you want to strip and let the paint bubble and scrape off with a scraper.... That will be a little easier than a sander.. Good luck

? · Answer

go to "how to strip wood finishes/Ehow.com

They have several ways to strip, various wood finishes from several items.
Hope it helps

Trending News

Windex to Strip Wood Finish?

6 Answers