Correcting a sticky finish

Gary Dymski | Home Work

July 27, 2006

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About 10 years ago, I finished the top of a wood table with Varathane. Within the past year or so, the finish has become "soft," and in spots, it has developed a stickiness. Everything, such as dishes, cups and paper, sticks to the table. Even my hands. Is there anything I can do to remove this stickiness without refinishing the entire tabletop?

A.G., Bethpage

After 10 years, I believe your table is in dire need of a refinishing. Varathane is a brand name - like Whirlpool or Ford - and it doesn't tell me much. The company has a full line of wood finishes, from interior varnishes and stains to waterproof polyurethanes. It's pretty obvious your finish has become worn.

It reminds me of my days in parochial school, when the finish on those old wood desks became so gummy you could scratch your name into it. You might try washing away the stickiness with a 50-50 solution (equal amounts) of white vinegar and water or even mild dishwashing detergent and water. Some oil soaps - I think Murphy's Oil Soap is an excellent wood cleaner - might work, too. These act as mild varnish cleaners. Stronger, more caustic varnish cleaners are available in paint and hardware stores. You can check the same shelves for furniture restorers; however, they can be expensive and take a lot of scrubbing and polishing. Once restored, try using a wood wax that will repel water and other stains.

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If these methods are unsuccessful, I would advise refinishing the entire surface. Consult a pro at a local paint shop for the best finish options, but I would suggest a low-gloss polyurethane that resists water and can be easily cleaned, sanded and refinished.