How to Clean Used Furniture Bought From Charity Shops (2026)

Buying second-hand furniture is an affordable way to furnish your home, especially as op shops are among the cheapest places to shop. Before you use a piece, it is important to know how to clean used furniture bought from charity shops. Cleaning removes dirt and sanitizes the item.

This guide provide instructions on how to clean wood, upholstery, and metal furniture.

Cleaning wooden furniture (dressers, tables, chairs)

Solid wood furniture is durable, but it requires cleaning to protect its finish.

1. Dust and wipe down: Start with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. For a deeper clean, mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water. Dampen a cloth in the soapy water, wring it out, and wipe all surfaces.
2. Rinse and dry: Use a second cloth dampened with plain water to wipe away soap residue. Follow with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
3. Tackle grime and odours: For sticky spots or musty smells, a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can work. Use a soft-bristled brush for detailed carvings.
4. Restore shine: Once dry, use a furniture polish, buffing in the direction of the wood grain.

Cleaning upholstered furniture (sofas, armchairs)

Upholstery requires more work, as fabrics can hold dust and odours. The hygiene principles are similar to our guide on washing second-hand clothes.

1. Give it some air: If possible, let the piece sit outside in a sunny, dry spot for a few hours. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant.
2. Vacuum thoroughly: Using the brush attachment, go over every surface. Remove cushions and use the crevice tool for corners.
3. Deodorize with baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda over all fabric. Let it sit for at least an hour to absorb smells, then vacuum it up.
4. Spot clean stains: Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first. For tougher stains, a portable spot cleaner or a specific upholstery shampoo may be needed.
5. Consider a professional clean: For a valuable or heavily stained piece, professional upholstery cleaning is an option.

Cleaning metal and plastic furniture

These pieces are generally easy to clean but may have issues like rust.

1. General wash: Clean surfaces with a soft cloth using warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive scourers that can scratch the surface.
2. Remove rust spots: For minor rust, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
3. Protect the finish: Once clean, you can protect metal from rust by applying a coat of car wax, especially for outdoor furniture.

Knowing how to clean used furniture bought from charity shops is a useful skill. With a little effort, you can ensure your find is a clean part of your home. When you’re ready to declutter, read our guide on how to donate household goods responsibly.