Where you are certain of the surface coating on the wood, you can use the appropriate method for removing the material.

Start by cleaning the surface with a dilute mixture of warm water and dishwashing soap to remove dirt.

Dry the surface thoroughly before assessing the condition of the remaining finish.

Remove stubborn dirt, grease and wax with mineral oil.

Wipe the surface of the wood with a clean cloth dampened with the mineral oil, or use a mop to clean floors.

Methylated spirits on a cloth will remove shellac finishes and wax.

Use acetone or lacquer thinner to remove lacquer.

You can remove varnish and polyurethane with special chemical strippers, but these products are toxic and should be handled using a respirator, eye protection and gloves.

In most cases, it’s safer to strip varnish or polyurethane by sanding.

Clean it before you strip it.

Simply mopping with mineral oil can reveal the true nature of a wood floor.