Why Do Rings Form On Coffee Tables?
Coffee tables are integral to any living room, reception room or lounge, providing a convenient resting place for drinks, snacks, and more. Rings on coffee tables are an unfortunate but common annoyance and can be difficult to remove. But why, exactly, do these rings form on coffee tables? Let’s look at the reasons.
1. Drinks
The most common cause of rings on coffee tables is from drinks. Drinks, both hot and cold, can leave marks when consumed directly from the table. Cold drinks, for example, can leave small ‘sweat’ marks on the wood or other material of your coffee table. Hot drinks, on the other hand, can leave marks where the condensation evaporates after use. All of these marks can add up over time, leaving rings on the surface of your coffee table.
2. Other Liquids
Coffee tables are not just reserved for drinks. They can often be used as a convenient place to store food, snacks and other liquids. From sauce to soup, all liquids have the potential to seep into the surface of your coffee table, leaving marks and potential rings in the process.
3. Moisture
Moisture in the environment can also play a role in causing rings on coffee tables. Wood is one of the most common materials used to make coffee tables and is absorbent of moisture. This can lead to visible discolouration and rings in extreme cases.
4. Acids
In some cases, the cause of rings on coffee tables can actually be chemically based. Acids, which are present in many common household items, can quickly leave marks on the surface of a coffee table if not processed correctly.
How to Remove Coffee Table Rings
To prevent rings from forming on your coffee table, it is important to take steps such as using coasters or mats when served. To remove existing rings on your coffee table, there are some quick and easy steps you can take:
- Baking Soda: Mix one part baking soda and one part water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the rings and leave it overnight. In the morning, the rings should be gone.
- Vinegar: Take a cloth and dampen it with a mixture of vinegar and water. Rub this solution over the rings.
- Vegetable Oil: Take a soft cloth, dampen it with some vegetable oil, and gently rub it over the rings to remove them.
By taking preventative measures and utilizing the remedies listed above, it should be possible to keep your coffee table free from rings and maintain its aesthetic appearance.
