Furniture, Wood and Cabinetry Finishing - Furniture Refinishing

My beautiful oak veneer cabinets are 23 years old. They just don't clean up well anymore and there are a few water spots. I would like to clean them up and put on a new finish/protectent without having to restain them. The problem is mainly on the doors around the handles. Is there a way I can accomplish this?

Drop back by and let me know the following:

are the water spots whitish or black?

what specific problems do you have around the handles?

They are white spots, water, I think. Around the handles it seems to be build up of grime or oils, the surface is darker than the rest of the cabinets and it won't wash off with soap oil. Also, I know there is a more yellow tinge to them than there used to be.

First, thanks for emailing me. Second, my profound apologies for overlooking your post in the first place - but better late than never I guess.

The yellowing is a natural by product of lacquer that's aging - it is accelerated by being in a smoking household.

The water spots, grime, et al can be removed in the following manner.

Remove all the handles - they need to be cleaned separately. Warm soapy water may do the trick.White vinegar and 0000 steel wool will.

The finish can be cleaned by making a paste of common baking soda and water and scrubbing the piece with this mixture using a damp sponge. Go over the entire piece, then wipe clean with damp rags, followed by dry rags to remove the last bit.

The sheen may be restored by using a fine automotive abrasive compound, such as Turtle Wax Polishing Compound and Scratch Remover. A lot of elbow grease, but I think you'll find the final results worth it.

Again, my apologies for the unseemly delay in responding.