How to Clean Black Lacquer Furniture

If you have ever owned black lacquer furniture, you know how striking and luxurious it looks. The shiny finish makes your home look chic and elegant, but keeping gleaming pieces of black lacquer in tip-top shape can be challenging since dust, dirt, and fingerprints often stick out even more clearly on such dark surfaces.

How to Clean Black Lacquer Furniture

Fortunately, there are some simple strategies for cleaning large or small pieces of lacquered wood without damaging them that will keep your furniture looking fresh and new. In this blog post we’ll show you how to clean black lacquer furniture the right way so read on to discover our top tips!

9 Best Ways on How to Clean Black Lacquer Furniture

1. Dust Your Black Lacquer Furniture Frequently:

It’s important to dust your black lacquer furniture regularly, at least once a week if possible. This will prevent any build-up of dirt and grime that can harm the finish of the furniture over time. Use a soft cloth or feather duster to carefully wipe down the surface of your furniture, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies.

2. Use a Gentle Cleaner:

When it comes to cleaning black lacquer furniture, less is more. Avoid using harsh cleaners or chemicals that can strip away the finish or cause discoloration. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner specifically designed for lacquered surfaces. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently wipe down your furniture in a circular motion.

3. Protect the Finish:

To maintain the glossy finish of your black lacquer furniture, it’s important to protect it from scratches and scuffs. Place coasters under glasses and vases, and use tablecloths or placemats when dining on your lacquered table. This will prevent any damage to the surface and keep it looking shiny and new. This is especially important for high-traffic areas like the dining table or coffee table.

Place Coasters Under Glasses

4. Use a Microfiber Cloth:

One of the best tools for cleaning black lacquer furniture is a microfiber cloth. These soft, lint-free cloths are gentle on the delicate finish and can effectively remove dust and dirt without scratching the surface. Make sure to use a clean, dry cloth for each piece of furniture to avoid spreading any debris or grime. Using a slightly damp microfiber cloth can also help to remove any stubborn dirt or fingerprints.

5. Avoid Sunlight:

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause black lacquer furniture to fade or discolor. To prevent this, keep your furniture away from windows and direct sunlight. If you have no choice but to place your furniture near a window, make sure to use curtains or blinds to block out the sun’s rays. This will help preserve the color and finish of your furniture.

6. Clean up Spills Immediately:

Accidents happen, but it’s important to clean up spills on black lacquer furniture as soon as possible. Use a soft cloth to gently blot away any liquid, being careful not to rub as this can damage the finish. If necessary, use a mild soap and water solution to clean up the spill, then dry the surface thoroughly with a soft cloth.

Clean Up Spills

7. Avoid Using Rough or Abrasive Materials:

When cleaning black lacquer furniture, it’s important to avoid using rough or abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the delicate finish. This includes steel wool, scouring pads, or rough sponges. Stick to soft cloths or gentle cleaning tools like a microfiber cloth to avoid any damage.

8. Use Furniture Polish With Caution:

While furniture polish can make your black lacquer furniture shine even more, it’s important to use it sparingly and with caution. Some furniture polishes contain harsh chemicals that can damage the finish, so be sure to read the labels and opt for a gentle polish specifically designed for lacquered surfaces. Apply it sparingly with a soft cloth and buff it in gently.

9. Seek Professional Help:

If your black lacquer furniture is heavily stained or damaged, it may be best to seek professional help. Furniture restoration experts have specialized knowledge and tools to clean and restore delicate surfaces like lacquer. It may cost more than DIY methods, but it will ensure that your furniture is cleaned and restored correctly without any further damage.

Following these tips will help you keep your black lacquer furniture looking beautiful and shiny for years to come. Remember to clean regularly, protect the finish, and use gentle cleaning methods to maintain its elegant look. With a little care and attention, your black lacquer furniture will be the centerpiece of your home for many years. Happy cleaning! 

Use Gentle Cleaning Methods

Additional Tips and Tricks to Clean Black Lacquer Furniture

1. Always use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean black lacquer furniture. Avoid using abrasive materials or rough sponges as they can scratch the surface.

2. If there are tough stains or sticky residue on the furniture, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist onto the affected area. Gently wipe with a soft cloth to remove the stain.

3. For a deeper clean, add a few drops of mild dish soap to the vinegar and water solution and use it to gently scrub the furniture with a soft cloth. Make sure to wipe off all the soap residue with a damp cloth afterward.

4. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ammonia-based cleaners on black lacquer furniture as they can cause damage to the finish.

5. Regularly dust the furniture with a soft cloth or feather duster to prevent dust build-up and maintain its shine.

6. To remove scratches on black lacquer furniture, use a small amount of shoe polish that matches the color of the furniture and gently rub it onto the scratch using a soft cloth. Wipe off any excess polish with a clean cloth.

7. For more stubborn scratches, you can also use a furniture touch-up marker in a matching color to cover up the blemish.

8. Avoid placing hot or wet items directly on black lacquer furniture as it can cause damage to the finish. Use coasters and placemats to protect the surface.

9. If your black lacquer furniture has a high-gloss finish, you can use a polish specifically designed for lacquer furniture to maintain its shine and protect it from scratches.

10. If you notice any chips or peeling on the furniture’s surface, use a small brush to apply a layer of clear nail polish over the damaged area. This will help prevent further damage and keep the furniture looking new.

11. When storing black lacquer furniture, make sure to wrap it in soft cloth or bubble wrap to prevent any scratches or damage. Store it in a dry and cool place away from direct sunlight.

Following these tips and regularly maintaining your black lacquer furniture will help keep it looking sleek and shiny for years to come. With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of your furniture without worrying about damage or wear and tear.  So go ahead, invest in some high-quality black lacquer pieces, and elevate the look of your home with their elegant and sophisticated touch.

Wipe Off Any Excess Polish

Precautions Need to Be Followed for Cleaning Black Lacquer Furniture

1. First and foremost, it is important to handle black lacquer furniture with care as it can easily get damaged or scratched.

2. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials on black lacquer furniture, as they can cause discoloration or damage to the surface.

3. Always use a soft cloth, preferably made of microfiber, for dusting and cleaning black lacquer furniture. This will prevent any scratches or marks on the surface.

4. Before cleaning, ensure that the furniture is completely dry and free from any spills or stains. If there are any spills, wipe them off immediately with a damp cloth.

5. Do not place black lacquer furniture near sources of heat such as radiators or fireplaces, as it can cause the finish to crack or peel.

6. Avoid placing heavy objects on black lacquer furniture, as it can cause dents and permanent damage to the surface.

7. When moving black lacquer furniture, always lift it instead of dragging it across the floor. This will prevent any scratches or marks on the bottom of the furniture.

8. Regularly dust and clean black lacquer furniture to prevent dust and dirt from building up, which can make it difficult to clean in the future.

Following these precautions will not only help keep your black lacquer furniture looking clean and shiny but also extend its lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty of black lacquer furniture for many years to come.

Always Lift It Instead of Dragging It

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Clean My Black Lacquer Furniture?

It is recommended to clean your black lacquer furniture at least once a week to maintain its shine and prevent the build-up of dirt and dust. However, the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on the amount of use and exposure to environmental factors such as smoke or moisture. You can also give your furniture a quick wipe down with a soft, damp cloth daily to remove any surface dust or debris.

What Tools and Products Should I Use for Cleaning?

For regular cleaning, you will need a soft microfiber cloth, warm water, and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the lacquer finish. If there are any tough stains, you can use a specific cleaner made for black lacquer furniture or gently rub it with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Be sure to test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first.

How Do I Prevent Scratches on My Black Lacquer Furniture?

To prevent scratches, avoid placing sharp objects directly on the furniture surface. Use coasters, placemats, or tablecloths to protect the surface from scratches caused by utensils, cups, and plates. When cleaning, be gentle and avoid using abrasive materials such as rough sponges or steel wool.

Can I Use Furniture Polish on Black Lacquer Furniture?

No, it is not recommended to use furniture polish on black lacquer furniture. The polish can leave a residue on the surface and attract more dust and dirt. It can also cause damage to the lacquer finish over time. Stick to using a soft, damp cloth for regular cleaning.

Conclusion

Now you know how to clean black lacquer furniture and maintain its beauty for years to come. Remember to clean it at least once a week, use gentle cleaning tools and products, and avoid harsh chemicals or furniture polish. With proper care, your black lacquer furniture will continue to shine and be a stylish addition to your home décor.  So go ahead and enjoy the elegance of black lacquer without worry!  Happy cleaning!

Photo of author

Adrian Green

Adrian is a woodworking hobbyist and has loved Woodworking since he was 10 years old. Back then in childhood, his father used to have a furniture shop. He used to help his dad and learned a lot from him about how to fix woodworking furniture, basic carpentry knowledge and also about how to work hard and take care of business. He enjoys woodworking as a hobby. He loves the feeling of creating something with his own hands, and the satisfaction that comes from seeing his finished products used by others.

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