How to Remove a White Water Ring on a Dining Room Table

When a dining room table is not protected, it will eventually end up damaged. A sweating glass leaves behind a white water ring after the moisture seeps into the finish. If the moisture ends up beneath the varnish, the ring will turn black. Once the wood turns black, it will require striping, sanding and refinishing. However, a white water ring can be removed from a dining room table very easily, and it will look as good as new. I had to remove a white water ring on my boyfriend’s dining room table, and I was relieved when it came right off.

Necessary Supplies for Removing the Moisture

A iron can be used to remove a white water mark on a dining room table. If an iron is not available, you will need a flat microwave-safe plate. When using an iron, you will need a thin cloth to protect the wood from excessive heat. Both methods work, but an iron is the preferred tool when trying to pull moisture out of the varnish. When the moisture evaporates, the white water ring will disappear.

Procedure to Remove a White Water Ring on a Dining Room Table

Begin by heating an iron on a low to medium setting. If using a flat plate, heat it in the microwave along with food of your choice since the oven should not be used when empty. The plate should feel hot to the touch underneath.

If using an iron, cover the white water mark with a thin towel. Iron the towel on the dining room table. As the heat penetrates the fabric, the moisture that created the ring will evaporate. Otherwise, turn up the heat setting until it is sufficient, and press the towel again. Just like magic, the white ring should be gone.

If using a hot plate to remove a white water ring from a dining room table, simply place the plate on the white water ring for about a minute. Do not leave it on the bare dining room table any longer. Moisture will form beneath the plate and create more problems. If the hot plate is in place just long enough to pull out the water, the white water ring will disappear.

Source: Personal and Professional Home Design and Maintenance Experience