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DIY bleached wood.

Bleached Wood Furniture DIY

An easy, yet effective, DIY way to get bleached wood furniture and get rid of stains, tannins, and lighten wood tones.
Full disclosure: when doing this project you should follow all manufacturer guidelines to protect yourself.

Equipment

  • Sander
  • Sand Paper
  • Paint Brushes
  • Glass jar
  • Rubber Gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Mask
  • Clean Cloths

Ingredients

  • Savogran wood bleach
  • Hot water
  • Vinegar

Instructions

  • Before you begin even thinking about adding bleach to wood furniture any and all paint, clear coat, or old stain must be removed. If it is stained wood it would be sanded or stripped before beginning. It needs to be as close to natural wood as possible. Do NOT use a finishing/high grit sandpaper for this step. Once you use a finishing/high grit sandpaper on wood it doesn't absorb product very well.
  • Next wipe off the wood with a clean rag to remove any dust or debris that may be on the wood. Use a damp cloth if needed, just allow the wood to completely dry before moving to the next step. If the wood is not completely dry you will end up with water spots on the wood. They will be left dark because they have already absorbed water so they wont absorb the bleach water solution.
  • Mix the hot water (not boiling) with the bleach powder following the directions on the can. DO NOT mix more than you need for the project you are working on. The entire 12 ounce container makes 4 gallons. If you're not going to be using all four gallons do not mix that much. Once it is mixed it has to be used or thrown away it can not be stored for use later once it has been mixed.
  • Use an old paint brush to apply the bleach going with the grain of the wood. Ensure every area is evenly coated with the mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  • Repeat step 4 until your desired look is achieved.
  • After you get your desired look with a clean cloth and hot water wipe off the surface you applied bleach to. You will repeat this step 3 times.
  • Next mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water. (A white vinegar and water mixture can also be used as a neutralizer. I did not have baking soda on hand so I chose to neutralize with white vinegar.) Use a clean paint brush to brush the mixture on. Ensure the area is evenly covered. Let completely dry.
  • You are officially done with the bleaching process. You're now ready to finish your project by painting, staining, or sealing. Whatever you wish. Based on the wood and your specific project you may need to go back with a high grit finishing sandpaper before adding any paint, stain, or varnish.