How to Remove Water Stains from Wood with Mayonnaise

Removing water stains from wood can be frustrating, especially when you want to avoid harsh chemicals. Luckily, some household hacks—like using mayonnaise—offer an eco-friendly solution. These tricks can revive worn wooden surfaces and effectively tackle moisture marks left by frequent spills.

Interior experts in the U.K. recommend mayonnaise for removing water stains, highlighting its oil content as the key ingredient. They call it the “easiest way” to get rid of stubborn marks on wood.

The mayonnaise method is straightforward. First, apply a small dab of mayo onto the water-stained area with a microfiber cloth. Adjust the amount depending on the size of the stain.

Next, cover the spot with a paper towel and let it sit for several hours.

After a few hours, check the stain. If it’s gone, you can wipe away the mayo and polish the surface. If the stain persists, try leaving the mayo on overnight.

This mayonnaise trick is one of the simplest solutions and requires minimal effort. However, if mayo doesn’t work, there are alternatives. For example, toothpaste may have a similar effect. Avoid whitening toothpaste, as it can lighten the wood’s color.

Removing water stains isn’t always simple, but these eco-friendly methods let you refresh wooden surfaces with items you likely already have in your kitchen.