Give That Old Orange Wood a Modern Touch

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Even if your wood furniture wasn’t orange when you bought it, the surface may have faded to a warmer tone over time. But don’t worry, you don’t have to toss it out! There’s an easy DIY trick to give that dated orange furniture a modern makeover.

While sanding down to the raw wood can work, it might not give you an even finish. Refinishing is the way to go if you want a clean slate that you can customize to your style. Start by using mineral spirits to clean the surface and get rid of any hidden dust and debris. Then, you can either sand it down until you hit the raw wood, or try using wood bleach followed by diluted vinegar to even out the color. For a super simple two-step option, consider using a wood refinishing kit.

Once you’ve removed the orange tones, make sure to seal your wood furniture to keep it looking fresh. Avoid oil-based sealants, which can actually cause the wood to turn amber over time. Water-based polyurethane or polyacrylic are better options that won’t get warmer with age. And remember, too much direct sunlight can discolor hardwood, so try to limit UV exposure.

For a durable, long-lasting finish, polyurethane is a top pick. But if you want a more eco-friendly option, water-based polyacrylic can also do the trick. You can choose from a range of finishes, from satin to matte. Just steer clear of lacquer – it’s not the best choice for this project.