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Yes, vinegar can break down the adhesive bond, effectively dissolving the glue from wood. It will be much easier to wipe away. Vinegar’s acidity, which helps to make it an effective all-purpose cleaner, can also aid in removing adhesive with less chance of damaging the wood and finish than more aggressive solvents. 

The cost to refinish a dresser ranges from $300 to $2,000 on average, depending on the dresser’s size, material, and detail. If you need to repair the dresser before refinishing it, you can expect that service to cost extra. While it’s possible to restore and refinish antique furniture yourself, we recommend hiring a professional furniture refinisher to maintain the integrity of vintage and heirloom pieces. That way, you have the peace of mind of knowing that your dresser will receive professional-grade restoration.

Chalk paint can be applied without sanding first. Keep in mind that while there are a lot of chalk paint color options available, there aren’t as many choices as latex or oil-based paint.

You can also learn how to paint furniture without sanding using a liquid deglosser, sometimes referred to as liquid sandpaper. This can remove any old paint, gloss, or varnish, without the need to manually sand. Apply the deglosser using a cloth, then wait for the chemical to penetrate through the surface. Once it soaks through, you should be able to wipe away the residue with a towel. 

Yes, refinishing can decrease or even diminish the value of antique furniture, as most collectors look for original finishes to maintain the piece’s historical integrity. Learning how to clean antique wood and carefully restore the finish without stripping it is the best way to maintain the piece’s original value. Either way, it’s best to take it to a professional furniture refinishing and restoration expert rather than attempting a DIY restoration.