Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Mar 27, 2010 08:10pm | #1

   I assume you are speaking about the white marks in the finish, not black marks in the wood. 

   Using an oily substance over the area--including mayonnaise sometimes works--and generally can't hurt. 

   However, it is generally more effective to wipe the surface with a cloth just dampened with denatured alcohol.  You are NOT trying to wet the surface,  just barely damp  Don't rub hard, and if the first pass doesn't work, let the surface rest a moment between subsequent passes.  Too much alcohol can damage the finish, forcing the refinishing.   Even finishes that wouldn't be affected by alcohol when new, might suffer damage if they are old and beginning to deteriorate. 

2. 
   DonStephan | Mar 28, 2010 11:00am | #2

   Can you provide some additional information?  Is the finish brand new?  Do you know what type of finish it is, and how and when the water marks were created?  Are the marks white, black, or simply a slightly duller spot in raking light?

1. 
   knothole | Mar 28, 2010 11:50am | #3

   water marks

      The finish is at least 25 years old. on a very nice 4 leaf dinning table . The marks are from moisture through a paper plate that was  on a cloth place mat.

1. 
   Gretchen | Mar 30, 2010 08:49am | #4

   Steve's method will work--tried and true. Also you can try Howard's restor-a-finish.