Even with the most careful planning and plenty of bubble wrap, it’s not uncommon to discover a few scratches or scuffs on your furniture after a move. Whether it’s your beloved coffee table or a vintage dresser, those small imperfections can be frustrating—but the good news is that most scratches can be fixed with a few simple techniques. We’ve put together this guide to help you repair scratched furniture after moving so your pieces can look as good as they did before the big day.
Assess the Damage
First things first—take a close look at the scratch. Is it just a light surface scuff, or has it gone deeper into the wood or finish? Understanding the depth of the damage will help you decide which method to use. Most surface-level scratches are easy DIY fixes, while deeper gouges may require a bit more effort (or professional help).
For Light Scratches and Scuffs
If the scratch hasn’t penetrated the finish or wood, you can often buff it out with everyday household items:
- Walnut trick: Rub a shelled walnut directly into the scratch using a circular motion. The natural oils can help blend the mark into the wood.
- Olive oil and vinegar mix: Combine 1/2 cup of vinegar with 1/2 cup of olive oil. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and rub it gently over the scratch. Let it sit for a few minutes, then buff with a dry cloth.
- Furniture touch-up markers or crayons: These are available at most hardware stores and come in a variety of wood tones. Fill in the scratch and wipe away any excess.
For Deeper Scratches
When scratches go beyond the finish, you’ll need to take a slightly more involved approach:
- Wood filler: Apply wood filler to the scratch with a putty knife. Once dry, sand it smooth and use a matching stain to blend it in with the surrounding wood.
- Wax repair sticks: These can fill deeper scratches while also providing color to help hide the damage.
- Refinishing the surface: In some cases, especially with multiple deep scratches, it may be best to sand down the entire surface and refinish it for a consistent look.
Don’t Forget About Upholstered or Painted Furniture
Upholstered items may suffer scuffs or small tears. For minor fabric damage, a fabric glue patch or needle and thread might do the trick. Painted furniture can usually be touched up with leftover paint or matching touch-up kits.
When to Call the Pros
Sometimes the damage is more than a DIY fix can handle—especially with antique or high-value pieces. In that case, working with professional movers or furniture restoration experts can be well worth it.
If you’re looking for help, we recommend We Haul It Inc. Not only do they handle moving with extreme care, but they also provide expert support for post-move repairs and touch-ups. On their website, you’ll find more info about how their team takes extra steps to minimize damage during moves—and what to do if something does get scratched. Their attention to detail and customer service makes them a solid choice for anyone who values their furniture.
Scratched furniture after a move isn’t the end of the world—especially when you have a few easy tricks up your sleeve. Whether you’re working with natural oils or repair kits, most blemishes can be handled quickly. And if not, companies like We Haul It Inc are there to help you bring your furniture back to life. Because every scratch tells a story—but that doesn’t mean it has to stay forever.
