How to clean an old poly finish

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Cleaning an old cradle with a poly finish before applying a new wipe-on poly finish requires careful attention to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Remove any Loose Debris: Use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dust, dirt, or debris from the cradle's surface.

• Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a mild cleaning solution by combining warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or wood cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the existing finish.

• Dampen a Soft Cloth: Moisten a soft, lint-free cloth with the cleaning solution. Wring out excess liquid to ensure the cloth is damp but not dripping wet.

• Gently Wipe the Surface: Wipe down the entire surface of the cradle with the damp cloth, working in the direction of the wood grain. This will help remove any built-up grime or residues without damaging the existing finish.

• Rinse with Clean Water: After cleaning, rinse the cloth thoroughly with clean water and wring out any excess. Use the damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue from the surface of the cradle.

• Allow to Dry Completely: Allow the cradle to air dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This will ensure that the wood is fully dry and ready for the new finish.

• Lightly Sand the Surface: Once the cradle is dry, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) to create a slightly rough texture for better adhesion of the new finish. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.

• Remove Sanding Residue: After sanding, use a tack cloth or a clean, dry cloth to remove any sanding residue from the surface of the cradle. This will ensure a smooth finish for the new poly application.

• Apply the New Wipe-On Poly Finish: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the wipe-on poly finish. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, apply a thin, even coat of polyurethane to the cradle's surface, working in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying additional coats as needed, sanding lightly between coats for optimal smoothness.

• Allow Sufficient Drying Time: Once you've applied the final coat of polyurethane, allow the cradle to dry completely according to the manufacturer's recommended drying time before placing any objects on it or using it.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean an old cradle with a poly finish and prepare it for a new wipe-on poly finish, ensuring a beautiful and durable result.

Why not use a scraper to take off the old finish, sand to 220 and apply the new finish.  Mark Novak on the Anvil site of U-tube makes a strong case for this method and his stock refinishing is marvelous.  P

If the old finish is in good shape (no cracks, flakes, etm) a mild mix of Dawn and warm water in a lint-free cloth (old t-shirts work) to remove any residue from prior use.  Then, rub-down with grey synthetic scrub pad (steel wool can leave metal fibers and oil behind).  Allow to dry well, vacuum well, and apply your wipe-on per directions.  Allow to cure for a week before use to allow all the tail solvents to evaporate.

Using a scraper to remove an old application of poly will not be a pleasant experience.  A scraper will do well in softer films like polymerized oils (linseed, etm) without urethane resins.  If you want to remove the old (hard) poly, I think you'd do better to have the piece commercially stripped and then proceed as in new work:   sanding with multiple grits, etc.

I'd wipe it down with mineral spirits, sand any rough spots with 220 grit, scratch up the old finish with 0000 unlubed steel wool, and apply the new poly. Congratulations on becoming a Great Grand and still being able to work wood well.