water stains on maple

[averypb]

Our new (to us) Chris Craft has some blackish water stains on the maple in the master stateroom. I've sanded it quite a bit and the discoloration has lightened but is still there. Is there anyway to lighten the discoloration with bleach or something else? I do plan on applying a light mahoghany stain as was originally done.

Barb

[Donn]

Barb...bleach will most definately lighten the stained wood, but I'd be very cautious in it's application. Wait for the experts to answer your question, before you do anymore.

[Mr. Know It All]

Oxcilic(not sure of spelling) acid a type of wood bleach, not common household bleach. Brush it on and rinse with lots of water. I've used it on the inside of my 16 ft. Lyman with pretty good results. Inside the stateroom could be another story though. I'm no expert either so like Donn says wait til one of them checks in.
Peace---> Kevin in Ohio

[wolfietuk]

The oxcylic acid works best if heated as hot as you can stand it. My question is are you doing a whole piece of wood. If you are bleaching a small area and then rinsing it off you run the risk of having a water spot where you stop.

Rick

[averypb]

I'm going to give the oxcylic acid a try in a small unnoticable area. I was only planning on treating the discolored areas, not the entire piece.
Thanks,
Barb

[andrew britt]

Oxalic has been very useful in removing black water stains from cherry without bleaching the color of the old cherry. Dissolve all that a jar of hot water will take - paint it on with a brush - rinse off after a few minutes and then wipe dry.