Grease Stains on Wooden Tables
Many of us have beautiful and functional wooden tables as part of our interior, whether it’s a dining table, coffee table, or kitchen worktop. Wooden tables add warmth to any space, but they also require maintenance to stay looking great and free from dirt. Grease stains on wooden tables can be especially frustrating, as they can be difficult to remove once they soak into the surface. On this page, you’ll find useful advice on how to remove grease stains from wooden tables and how to prevent future issues with proper oil treatment.
Why Do Grease Stains Appear on Wooden Tables?
Wood is a porous material that reacts quickly to its surroundings, meaning it easily absorbs liquids and grease. If your wooden table is not properly treated, it can quickly become damaged by grease and dirt. Grease stains on oak tables can be particularly challenging, as oak is often used untreated or only lightly treated, which makes it more susceptible to staining.
How to Remove Grease Stains from a Wooden Table
If you notice grease stains on a wooden table, it’s important to act quickly before the stain penetrates deeper into the wood and becomes more stubborn. We recommend starting with a damp cloth and our Rubio Monocoat wood soap to remove surface grease.
If the stain is more persistent, we recommend using our Grease Remover, which is specifically designed to remove grease stains from surfaces treated with one of our Rubio Monocoat wood oils.
If you want to prevent grease stains in the future, oil treatment is an effective way to reduce the risk of grease stains on wooden tables. Oil treatment protects the wood by creating a water- and grease-repellent surface, making it easier to clean and maintain.
We recommend using either our indoor oil Oil Plus 2C or our exterior oil DuroGrit. Both are suitable for all types of wooden surfaces and provide optimal protection against grease and dirt. They are also enriched with nourishing and eco-friendly ingredients, ensuring long-lasting protection while maintaining the wood’s natural appearance.
How to Oil Treat Your Wooden Table
If you want to oil treat your wooden table to prevent future grease stains, it’s important to clean the table thoroughly first. This ensures the oil can penetrate the wood properly and provide the best protection.
In some cases, it may be necessary to lightly sand the table if there are uneven areas or old stains. Once the table is clean and free from dust, apply the oil using a wide brush in an even layer, following the direction of the wood grain. Allow the oil a few minutes to soak into the wood, then wipe away any excess oil using a clean cloth.
With both our interior and exterior oils, only one single coat is required. Thanks to advanced molecular bonding technology, the oil penetrates the wood immediately, and after just one layer you achieve a perfect result.
Oil treatment not only protects against grease stains but also enhances the wood’s natural beauty. Your wooden table will look refreshed and become far more resistant to everyday wear and tear.
How to Avoid Grease Stains on a Wooden Table
Oil treatment helps make your wooden surface more resistant to grease and dirt in the future, but it may also be necessary to follow a few additional steps. For example, always use coasters or protective mats under hot pots, plates, and glasses.
It’s also important to wipe up spills and grease as quickly as possible to prevent it from soaking into the wood. Keep the table clean using a damp cloth and our Rubio Monocoat wood soap.
To maintain the protection of your wooden table, we recommend repeating the oil treatment at least once a year. This ensures your table remains well-protected and resistant to grease stains in the long term.
Prevention is the Key to a Grease-Free Table
Removing grease stains from wooden tables can sometimes be a challenge, but it is an unavoidable part of everyday life. With the right techniques and regular oil treatment, you can easily keep your table looking beautiful and well-maintained.
Remember that prevention is the key – a properly treated wooden table is far more resistant to grease and dirt.


reading time:6 minutes