During the 1930s, the tobacco company W.D and H.O.Wills gave away colourful and entertaining collectors ‘cigarette trade cards’ in packets of their cigarettes. ‘Household hints’ was issued several times, in slightly different editions from 1930 to 1939. Some of the ideas look antiquated and redundant but occasionally there are forgotten gems that are pertinent today. I am sharing this series as a historical glimpse into yesterday’s home maintenance and the occasional addition to solutions for the modern home.
15. Removing Stains from Polished Furniture
“Unsightly stains (other than heat spots) on polished furniture may be removed by the following method. Slightly damp a cloth with methylated spirits and have a second one ready with furniture polish on it. Put a little salt on the stain and rub the first cloth briskly over it. Polish immediately with the second cloth. Great care must be taken in applying the methylated spirit as too long or too strong and application will seriously damage the polished surface. The illustration shows the best method for holding the two cloths.”
This method only works on surfaces that have been French polished. To check, use a cotton bud dipped in Methylated spirit, and rub a hidden or underside area. If it has been polished, the bud will pick up some of the finish. Although the household hint will bring good results,there are other less invasive methods that could be tried first. A wood reviver can remove stains and bring new life to tired wood. The Goodlife Centre makes its own using a recipe based on one used by The Victoria and Albert Museum.
