ᐅ How do I clean BILLY shelves to remove old stains?

Hello everyone,

I have a basic problem with my BILLY shelves, which I have been using for several years. Despite regular maintenance, some areas still develop stubborn stains that are difficult to remove. These stains often appear dried or like a kind of grease film that has built up over time.

I would like to know which methods or cleaning agents are best suited to remove these stains without damaging the surface of the BILLY shelves. I am particularly concerned about the white lacquered versions, where delicate surfaces need to be treated carefully.

Does anyone have experience with removing such stubborn stains from BILLY shelves? Are there any home remedies or professional products you can recommend?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Foje44 schrieb:
I am especially concerned about the white painted versions, where sensitive surfaces need to be treated.

I recommend starting with mild dish soap and a soft cloth. If the stains are stubborn, you can use diluted vinegar essence at a ratio of 1:10, but be sure to test it first in an inconspicuous area.

Avoid wiping too wet to prevent the material from swelling.

reni45 schrieb:
I recommend starting with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.

That’s a good first step. For stubborn stains on the painted surfaces of BILLY shelves, I suggest a gradual approach:

1. Gentle cleaning with soapy water and a microfiber cloth.
2. For persistent grease or dust buildup, isopropyl alcohol can be used, as it dries quickly and does not damage the surface.
3. For deeper discolorations, consider a specialized plastic cleaner that is pH neutral.

Important: Never use aggressive solvents like acetone, as they can damage the paint.

Also, avoid using excessive moisture on the surfaces to prevent damage to the cabinet materials (particleboard/MDF). After cleaning with alcohol, it is advisable to wipe down with a dry cloth.

Foje44 schrieb:
Are there any specific home remedies or professional products you would recommend?

Hey, I’ll join in and share a little prime example! 🙂

I had the same big “stain drama” with my BILLY shelves—especially with old stains that had settled like a stubborn film over the surface. My secret tip: a gentle mix of water, a bit of dish soap, and a drop of lemon juice. Lemon has a mild bleaching effect and breaks down grease. Apply everything with a soft cloth, don’t scrub to protect the finish, and then wipe again with clean water.

For the tough cases, I carefully experimented with a paste made from baking soda and water—let it sit briefly and then gently wipe it off. It works really well without damaging the finish!

I’d also highly recommend a microfiber cloth—it’s gentle on the surface and absorbs dirt effectively. Good luck with your experiments! 🙂