Match your furniture's scratch to a fix using things already in your kitchen or closet. No special products needed.
Find Your FixTell us about the scratch and we'll rank the best household methods for your situation.
Select your scratch details above and click "Show Repair Methods" to see your matched fixes.
Not sure which type you have? Use this visual guide to figure it out before choosing a method.
Only the clear finish is marked. The wood underneath is untouched. These look like light white lines and disappear when you wet them. Most common on tables and shelves.
Test: Run your fingernail across it. If you can't feel a dip, it's surface-level.
The scratch cuts through the finish and into the wood itself. You can feel a groove. These happen from pet claws, moving furniture, or sharp objects dragged across the surface.
Test: Your fingernail catches in the groove. You can see raw wood color inside.
A cloudy circle left by a hot mug, wet glass, or condensation. Moisture gets trapped between the finish and the wood. Very common on dining tables and nightstands.
Test: Circular shape, usually white or light gray. Surface is smooth, not rough.
The surface is smooth but the color has changed. Could be sun fading, chemical reaction, or a stain that didn't set right. Common on pieces near windows or where cleaners were used.
Test: No texture change. Color looks different from surrounding area.
These common items handle most furniture scratches. Check what you already have before buying anything.
Best for: surface scratches on medium to dark wood
Crack the nut and rub the meat across the scratch. The natural oils fill the gap and darken the exposed wood. Buff with a soft cloth after.
Best for: light scratches and dull finishes
Mix equal parts. Dab on with a cloth and rub along the grain. The oil adds moisture while the vinegar gently cleans. Wipe off excess after 5 minutes.
Best for: deep scratches on finished wood
Match the color as close as possible. Rub into the scratch with a cotton swab, let dry 10 minutes, then buff. Works especially well on lacquered surfaces.
Best for: deep gouges on painted or stained furniture
Pick a matching color. Melt the crayon tip with a lighter for 2 seconds, drip into the gouge, then scrape flat with a credit card. Buff smooth.
Best for: white rings and water marks
Spread a thick dab over the ring. Leave it overnight (8+ hours). The oils penetrate and push out trapped moisture. Wipe clean in the morning.
Best for: stubborn white rings on lacquer
Make a thin paste. Gently rub on the ring with a soft cloth using light pressure. Wipe clean immediately. Test in a hidden spot first.
Best for: color matching on dark wood
Mix with a few drops of water to make a paste. Dab into scratches with a cotton swab. Build up color in layers. Seal with a thin coat of olive oil.
Best for: color matching on medium wood
Steep a strong bag for 5 minutes. Dab the tea onto light scratches with a cloth. The tannins add a warm brown tint. Repeat for darker results.
Landlords and property managers check these spots during move-out inspections. Fixing scratches now saves you money later.
Check off items as you repair them. This list is stored in your browser and stays here between visits.
If household methods aren't giving you the result you want, a set of wood touch-up markers in multiple tones is the next step. They cost less than a pizza and cover scratches in seconds.
Browse Touch-Up Markers on Amazon