White ring marks on furniture

White ring marks on furniture (tables and sideboard tops) are caused by moisture entering the surface of the finish and making it opaque or appear white. The severity of the problem is contingent on the tenacity of the finish. Wax finishes can usually be left and the moisture will dissipate over a day or so. At the other end of the finish spectrum is a modern lacquer finish. While this is a hard and durable finish, it is not impervious to steam penetration – who left the pizza box on top of the table? - and it is more difficult, but not impossible, to repair.

The easiest way to eliminate white ring marks is to rub them with the grain, using a 0000 fine steel wool. Rub the surface with light strokes until you feel confident enough to apply some pressure and can see the results of your “dusting” with the steel wool. It is very important to use a fine steel wool because you will have to match the sheen as on the rest of the top of whatever you are working on. This can be done by rubbing with a coarse cloth or a good quality furniture wax. For a more matte finish you might use a 000 grade steel wool using the same “dusting stroke”. Always start gently and exercise patience so that you don’t have to repair your repair job, but always perform with confidence.