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Unquestionably Confused

On 5/28/2015 12:18 PM, wrote:
I have used TSP for many years to remove old grease and grime from
old varnished wood. However, as others have pointed out, you won't
want to use TSP unless you are committed to revarnishing what you
have cleaned. I have also used TSP on painted surfaces, but beware,
you don't need much elbow grease or water. Just a damp rag soaked in
TSP solution (based on measurements on package) and wrung out well.
Too much scrubbing may remove some of the old paint.

TSP is used as a de-glosser before repainting or refinishing old
varnish/urethane, etc. I am getting ready to put a new finish on my
tired knotty pine. Fortunately, mine is gorgeous except the finish
has dulled over time. I am going to clean with TSP and then add a
new coat of Urethane.

Hope this helps.

Back in me yute, we had a house that had knotty pine T&G paneling
throughout. It was up forever and the fact that my mother smoked
cigarettes didn't help the finish...

Wash down with a cloth and Murphy's Oil Soap, a soft brush if necessary
and dry it.

Worked well.