Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner Reviews: Is It Worth It?

Maintaining the beauty and longevity of your wooden surfaces is a priority for any homeowner. That’s why Murphy Oil Soap deserves a spot in your cleaning arsenal.

After years of personal use and extensive research, I’m convinced this product stands out in the crowded market of wood cleaners. Let me take you through my journey and insights on why Murphy Oil Soap is a top choice for wood care.

My Experience With Murphy Oil Soap

I’ve been using Murphy Oil Soap for over two decades, and it has become a staple in my household cleaning routine.

My initial encounter with this product was driven by a need to preserve the antique furniture I inherited from my grandparents.

These pieces were not only valuable but also delicate, requiring a gentle yet effective cleaning solution to maintain their charm.

At first, I was skeptical about using a commercial cleaner on such treasured items.

However, Murphy Oil Soap quickly won me over with its mild yet powerful formula. I diluted the soap as recommended, applied it with a soft cloth, and gently wiped down each piece of furniture.

The results were remarkable—the wood regained its natural luster without any harsh residues or damage to the intricate details.

As time went on, my reliance on Murphy Oil Soap expanded to other areas of my home. I started using it on my hardwood floors, kitchen cabinets, and even the outdoor porch boards. One memorable experience was restoring my porch, which had become stained and dull from exposure to the elements and bird droppings.

Mixing the soap with hot water, scrubbing with a brush, and ensuring quick drying with fans transformed the wooden planks, making them look revitalized and shiny once again.

Beyond wood surfaces, Murphy Oil Soap proved its versatility by effectively cleaning my stainless steel appliances. It effortlessly removed fingerprints and smudges, leaving the surfaces gleaming without streaks.

This multi-surface capability is one of the reasons I’ve remained loyal to Murphy Oil Soap for so many years.

However, not everything has been perfect. I did notice a slight variation in the soap’s color in newer batches, which was a bit surprising given my long-term use.

Despite this, the performance remained consistent, and the lighter color didn’t affect the cleaning efficacy. It’s a minor issue that doesn’t overshadow the overall positive experience I’ve had with the product.

Overall, Murphy Oil Soap has consistently delivered excellent results, whether I’m tackling antique furniture, everyday wooden surfaces, or even stainless steel appliances. Its gentle formula, combined with its effectiveness and versatility, makes it an indispensable tool in my cleaning toolkit.

If you’re looking for a reliable wood cleaner that you can trust across various applications, Murphy Oil Soap is definitely worth considering.

Pros of Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner

One of the most compelling advantages of Murphy Oil Soap is its versatility. Here are the key benefits I’ve experienced:

Multi-Surface Cleaning: Effective on antique furniture, hardwood floors, kitchen cabinets, outdoor porch boards, and even stainless steel appliances.
Gentle Yet Effective Formula: Cleans thoroughly without stripping natural oils, preserving the wood’s inherent beauty and strength.
Enhances Natural Shine: Leaves wood surfaces gleaming with a noticeable reflection, revitalizing the wood’s appearance.
Environmentally Friendly: Biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals, making it safer for both your family and the environment.
Ease of Use: Can be used with a spray bottle for quick touch-ups or a bucket for more extensive cleaning tasks.
Pleasant Fragrance: Leaves a subtle, fresh scent without being overpowering.
Long Shelf Life: Maintains its effectiveness over time, ensuring it remains a reliable choice in your cleaning supplies.
Trusted Brand: Over 25 years of reliable performance has earned it a loyal customer base.

Cons of Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner

Despite its numerous benefits, Murphy Oil Soap does have a few drawbacks:

Requires Thorough Drying: Especially in humid conditions, improper drying can lead to water marks or spots.
Color Variation: Some users have noticed a lighter color in newer batches, which might be a concern for those who prefer consistency.
Not Suitable for All Wood Types: While it excels with most hardwoods, it might not be the best choice for certain finishes or exotic woods that require specialized care.
Slightly Higher Price Point: Compared to some other brands, it may be a bit pricier, although the quality and effectiveness justify the cost.
Potential for Buildup: Overusing the soap, especially on floors, can lead to residue buildup that dulls the wood’s appearance.
Not Ideal for Certain Surfaces: Shouldn’t be used on waxed wood, certain plastics, or stone surfaces like granite or marble.

Tips To Get The Most Out of Murphy Oil Soap

To maximize the benefits of Murphy Oil Soap, proper maintenance and application techniques are essential. Here are some detailed tips that I’ve found invaluable over the years:

Dilution is Key: Always adhere to the recommended dilution ratio. Typically, a mixture of one ounce of Murphy Oil Soap to one gallon of warm water works well for most cleaning tasks. Using too much soap can leave a residue, while too little may not provide the desired cleaning power.
Use the Right Tools: Opt for soft cloths or mops when applying the soap. Microfiber cloths are particularly effective as they trap dust and dirt without scratching the wood surface. Avoid abrasive materials that can damage the finish or texture of the wood.
Ensure Proper Drying: After cleaning, make sure the wood surfaces dry quickly to prevent water stains and spots. On sunny days, this usually happens naturally. On cloudy or humid days, using fans can help expedite the drying process, ensuring that the wood remains pristine.
Regular Maintenance: Establish a regular cleaning routine to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Regular maintenance makes each cleaning session easier and more effective. Depending on your home’s usage, this could be weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Reapplication of Oil: For unfinished wood surfaces, applying a light coat of oil after cleaning can help maintain their luster and protect them from environmental factors. This additional step ensures that the wood remains resilient and retains its natural beauty over time.
Storage Tips: Store Murphy Oil Soap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage extends the product’s shelf life and ensures it remains effective for future use. Keeping the bottle tightly closed also prevents contamination and maintains its original quality.
Spot Testing: Before using Murphy Oil Soap on a new or sensitive surface, perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area. This helps ensure that the soap doesn’t react adversely with the wood or finish, preventing potential damage and giving you peace of mind.
Avoid Overuse: While Murphy Oil Soap is highly effective, overusing it can lead to buildup, especially on floors. Use the appropriate amount for each cleaning session to maintain optimal results and prevent the accumulation of residues that can dull the wood’s appearance.
Proper Cleaning Techniques: When cleaning larger areas, work in sections to ensure thorough coverage and effective cleaning. This method helps maintain consistency and ensures that every part of the surface receives adequate attention.
Complementary Products: For best results, consider using Murphy Oil Soap in conjunction with other wood care products like furniture polish or wood conditioners. This combination can enhance the overall appearance and longevity of your wooden surfaces.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that Murphy Oil Soap continues to deliver excellent results, keeping your wooden surfaces looking their best for years to come.

Comparison of Murphy Oil Soap Wood Cleaner With Other Brands

When it comes to wood cleaners, the market is saturated with numerous brands promising impeccable results. However, having used several products over the years, I can confidently say that Murphy Oil Soap stands out among its competitors.

Let me break down how it compares to some of the leading brands: Quick Shine Floor Finish, Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner, and Weiman Hardwood Polish and Restorer.

Murphy Oil Soap Vs. Quick Shine Floor Finish

Effectiveness and Versatility: Quick Shine Floor Finish is renowned for its ability to provide a glossy finish to hardwood floors. It excels in adding shine and protecting floors from everyday wear and tear. However, while Quick Shine is fantastic for enhancing the appearance of sealed floors, it doesn’t offer the same versatility as Murphy Oil Soap. Murphy Oil Soap can be used on a variety of wood surfaces, including antique furniture, kitchen cabinets, and even outdoor porch boards, making it a more all-encompassing solution for wood care.
Ease of Use: Both products are relatively easy to apply, but Murphy Oil Soap offers more flexibility. You can use it with a spray bottle for quick touch-ups or dilute it for larger cleaning tasks. Quick Shine typically requires application with a mop or cloth, which can be less convenient for smaller or more intricate surfaces.
Eco-Friendliness: Murphy Oil Soap takes the lead in terms of environmental responsibility. Its biodegradable formula is free from harsh chemicals, making it a safer choice for both your family and the environment. Quick Shine Floor Finish, while effective, contains more synthetic ingredients, which may not be as eco-friendly.

Murphy Oil Soap Vs. Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner

Performance on Sealed Floors: Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner is highly specialized for sealed hardwood floors, delivering a streak-free finish that enhances the wood’s natural beauty. It’s formulated to clean without leaving any residue, making it an excellent choice for maintaining pristine floors. However, Murphy Oil Soap doesn’t just clean; it also nourishes the wood by preserving its natural oils, which is crucial for maintaining the wood’s health over time.
Multi-Surface Capability: While Bona excels with sealed floors, its application is more limited compared to Murphy Oil Soap. Bona products are primarily designed for floors, whereas Murphy Oil Soap can be used on a broader range of wood surfaces, including furniture, cabinets, and even some stainless steel appliances. This makes Murphy Oil Soap a more versatile option for comprehensive wood care.
Price Point: Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner tends to be priced higher than Murphy Oil Soap, especially when considering the need for multiple specialized products for different surfaces. Murphy Oil Soap’s multi-purpose nature provides better value for money, as one product can address numerous cleaning needs around the home.

Murphy Oil Soap Vs. Weiman Hardwood Polish and Restorer

Cleaning Power: Weiman Hardwood Polish and Restorer is known for its strong cleaning action and ability to restore shine to dull wood surfaces. It combines cleaning and polishing in one step, which can be convenient for users looking to streamline their cleaning routine. However, this potency can sometimes be too harsh for delicate surfaces, potentially causing damage over time.
Gentleness on Wood: Murphy Oil Soap strikes a perfect balance by providing thorough cleaning while being gentle on wood surfaces. Its mild formula ensures that it cleans effectively without stripping away the wood’s natural oils or causing any harm to the finish. This makes Murphy Oil Soap a safer choice for maintaining the integrity and longevity of your wood furnishings and floors.
Application Flexibility: Weiman Hardwood Polish and Restorer is primarily designed for polished wood surfaces, limiting its use to specific applications. In contrast, Murphy Oil Soap’s versatility allows it to be used on a wide range of wood types and finishes, as well as other surfaces like stainless steel, providing a more comprehensive cleaning solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Murphy’s oil soap good for cleaning wood?

Absolutely. Murphy Oil Soap is specifically formulated to clean wood surfaces effectively without stripping away natural oils. It leaves wood looking clean and enhances its natural shine, making it an excellent choice for both finished and unfinished wood.

What should I not use Murphy’s oil soap on?

While versatile, Murphy Oil Soap isn’t suitable for all surfaces. Avoid using it on waxed wood, certain plastics, or finished surfaces that require a different type of cleaner. It’s also not recommended for use on stone surfaces like granite or marble. Always test a small area first to ensure compatibility.

Does Murphy’s oil soap remove water stains from wood?

Yes, it can help reduce the appearance of water stains by cleaning and restoring the wood’s natural oils. However, for deep or stubborn stains, additional treatments or specialized products might be necessary to fully eliminate the discoloration.

Can you use Murphy’s oil soap on unfinished wood?

Yes, Murphy Oil Soap is excellent for unfinished wood. It cleans effectively while maintaining the wood’s natural texture and appearance. Applying a light coat of oil after cleaning can further protect and enhance unfinished surfaces, keeping them resilient against environmental factors.

Wrapping Up

In my experience, Murphy Oil Soap is a reliable and effective wood cleaner that deserves a place in every homeowner’s cleaning toolkit. Its ability to handle a variety of wood surfaces, combined with its gentle yet powerful formula, makes it a standout choice.

Whether you’re preserving cherished antiques or maintaining everyday wooden surfaces, Murphy Oil Soap offers the performance and versatility you need to keep your wood looking its best. If you’re looking to maintain the beauty and integrity of your wood furnishings and floors, Murphy Oil Soap is definitely worth considering.