I never liked using harsh chemicals to clean. The love the idea of using items from my kitchen, things I can eat to clean our home. However, when my son was born, it became a mission ~ creating a non-toxic home for Mathew.

I did a lot of research but also a lot of experimenting.

One of my favorite experiments was to stain an unfinished wood desk for Mathew to use. I decided to use tea. I simply steeped several bags of black tea in a Mason jar over-night and painted it on. It took four coats to get the desired color but it looked good. I only sealed it with olive oil, so over the last 10 years, it had gotten worn, but what doesn’t?

Here are some other ways I take care of wood in our home:

Wood Polish – I mix 70% olive oil with 30% fresh lemon juice in a small jar (it will keep for a while in the refrigerator). When I want to use it, I shake vigorously, and then apply. The acid in the lemon juice cleans the wood and the olive oil nourishes it. It was an excellent choice as Mathew starting to chew on our coffee table when he was teething.

Scratches in wood – walnuts or pecan, whichever matches your wood better. Simply rub the nut into the scratch; it will camouflage the scratch.

Water rings – Mayonnaise, leave it on the water ring over night and then rub off. The ring should disappear.

Wood Floors – Gotta love Murphy’s Oil Soap but a lovely homemade recipe works as well and is cheaper.  In a bucket of warm water add an ounce of Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap, I prefer peppermint for its scent and anti-bacterial properties, and then add a ¼ cup of white vinegar.

How do you take care of the wood in your home? Please share and I will continue to share.