What to save? What to throw away? These are questions facing flood victims.

Here's some advice on salvaging and repairing furniture.

First, decide which pieces are worth restoring based on extent of damage, cost of the article, sentimental value and cost of restoration.

Antiques are probably worth the time, effort and expense. If damage appears minor, you might be able to clean, reglue and refinish antiques at home. Extensive repair or re-veneering should be done at a reliable repair shop.

Solid wood furniture usually can be restored, unless damage is severe. You may need to clean, dry and reglue it. Slightly warped boards may be removed and straightened. Upholstered furniture may be salvageable with a professional cleaning to remove stains. But if you have to replace the padding and the upholstery -- an expensive proposition -- it might be wiser to just buy new furniture.

WOOD PIECES

White spots or a cloudy film may develop on furniture that has gotten damp. To remove the spots: If the entire surface is affected, rub with a damp cloth dipped in turpentine or camphorated oil, or in a solution of one half cup household ammonia and one half cup water. Wipe dry at once and polish with wax or furniture polish. If color is not restored, dip 3/0 steel wool in oil (boiled linseed, olive, mineral or lemon). Rub lightly with the wood grain. Wipe with a soft cloth and re-wax.

VENEERED FURNITURE

Wood veneered furniture is usually not worth the cost and effort of repair, unless it has great monetary or sentimental value. If veneer is loose in just a few places you may be able to repair it. Carefully scrape glue under loose areas. Press veneer back in place. Place wax paper over affected area and heat with warm iron. Remove iron and place weights on area. If veneering doesn't stay in place or is bubbled, carefully slit the loose veneer with a razor blade and apply a good glue. Ask for advice at the hardware store. Cover the glued spots with wax paper and then place something heavy over the area while the glue dries.

WET FURNITURE

If your insurance allows partial reimbursement for flood-damaged furniture, it may be worthwhile to apply the money to new furniture, rather than pay for extensive repairs.