How to Clean and Shine a 50s Formica Table
Formica has been a tabletop choice for decades. Formica is made of laminate that resembles the natural look of wood or stone. Its popularity stems from the fact that it is less expensive than natural surfaces. Formica is durable and can last for many years with proper care. Cleaning and shining a 1950s Formica table back to its original condition can be accomplished with the proper techniques.
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Clean the table with a nonabrasive cotton cloth and a mild liquid detergent. Scrub the table section by section. Rinse with a clean cloth.
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Sprinkle some baking soda on a clean damp cloth and gently scrub the surface of the table, paying special attention to stained areas.
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Rinse the table with a clean cotton cloth, and dry with paper towels to prevent streaks and water spots from forming.
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Remove any remaining streaks after cleaning with a mild window cleaner. Dry with a clean cotton cloth.
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Apply Formica wax to the table top. This will rejuvenate the laminate surface to restore its natural shine and beauty. Formica wax can be found at most home improvement stores.
References
Resources
Tips
- Always clean spills as soon as possible, so they don't leave behind any permanent stains.
Warnings
- Never use abrasive cloths or scouring pads on Formica because it could scratch and damage the surface.
Writer Bio
Based in Statesboro, Ga., Emily Jones has been writing professionally since 2009. Her articles appear on various websites, specializing in the diverse topics of cleaning and insects. Jones is a graduate student studying education at Georgia Southern University.
Photo Credits
- old table image by Dubravko Grakalic from Fotolia.com
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