Types of Wood Stains and Finishes for Interior Use (2024)

Oil-based interior stain is what most people think of when it comes to wood stain. They are readily available and the easiest to use.

• They usually have a linseed oil binder that allows plenty of time to remove the excess before the stain dries. They are typically applied with a rag or cloth instead of a brush (although you can use a brush).
• Oil-based stains are the best wood stain for furniture or any large wood surface because of the slower drying time, which gives the piece a more even finish.
• Oil-based stains tend to penetrate deeper, leaving behind a richer color that is easy to refresh by applying another coat.
• They also have excellent surface adhesion that makes the surface resistant to peeling, giving the wood a more durable finish.
• You do need to remove the existing finish first before you apply the stain. You’ll need to use mineral spirits to thin the stain and for clean-up.
• They contain noxious chemicals and may require the use of a respirator mask when working with the stain.

Water-based interior stains are easier to clean up and are fast drying. These stains use water as the binder, which makes it easy to clean up or thin with water.

• They are extremely resistant to mold and mildew and more environmentally friendly.
• Because of its quick drying time, water-based stains are perfect for small projects.
• They do not penetrate the wood as deeply as oil-based stains which result in softer colors, but you can obtain a darker color with successive coats.
• Water-based wood stains also have a tendency to raise the grain of the wood.
• You can apply water-based stains by brush or with a rag.
• For best results, apply to raw wood or wood with the existing wood finish removed.

Gel stains are in between a traditional stain and paint. Gels let some of the wood’s unique markings and texture shine through while giving the wood a crisp, consistent finish.

• Like oil-based stains, gel stains clean up with mineral spirits.
• When it comes to application, gel stain requires less preparation than regular stains and paints.
• They are thicker and messier to apply. Use a rag or cloth to apply for best results.
• Gel stains are the best wood stain for furniture or floors made of pine or other woods prone to blotching. Blotching is uneven coloring caused by varying densities and resin deposits in the wood.

Tip: Gel stain adheres well even if the piece is not completely sanded down to the original wood.

Lacquer is a speedy, durable finish that produces an intense, high shine finish. It’s a type of film-forming topcoat used to protect and add luster.

• It’s normally applied over stain as a finishing coat.
• It dries fast and is typically applied with spray equipment.
• Lacquer can be used for interior woodworking, cabinets, mouldings and trim, but is not suitable for exterior use.

The term varnish is often used conversationally as a general term for wood finish. However, true varnish is a specialty item that must be ordered online or found at specialized shops. It can be tricky to apply and is not recommended for use by beginners.

Polyurethane was created as a synthetic alternative to varnish. It is thicker than varnish, requiring fewer coats for coverage. Oil-based polyurethane is a tough coating and it stands up well against exposure to chemicals and high heat. It also resists abrasion and scratches, making it an excellent choice for indoor projects such as wood floors, cabinets or stair railings.

• Oil-based polyurethane dries hard. It forms a durable, protective coating, but is less flexible than other formulas.
• Should only be used in areas with high ventilation. It has a strong odor until fully cured.
• Curing takes longer than other coatings and the surface remains tacky until fully dried.
• Cleanup requires mineral spirits.

There are a few cautions to take into consideration before working with stains. Stains and wood coatings contain various amounts of volatile organic chemicals or VOC. These chemicals can cause skin and eye irritations, lung and breathing problems, and headaches. In general, water-based stains contain less VOCs, but the same precautions should be taken when using any type of stain.

• Use stains in a well-ventilated area. It’s a good idea to wear a respirator and to open windows or work in an outdoor space.
• Keep away from open flames. The chemicals in stain are highly flammable.
• Protect your hands with disposable nitrile gloves to protect your skin for staining or potential allergic reactions. Do not use latex gloves. Latex can dissolve when exposed to solvents.
• Wear old clothing to protect yourself.
• Make sure to wear safety glasses to keep the stain out of your eyes.
• Keep pets and children away from the work area while you are using stain.
• Do not pile or ball stain-soaked rags in the regular trash while they're still wet. They need to be thoroughly dried before disposal.

Keep your paintbrushes and clothes in reusable condition by learning how to properly clean stains.

For Oil-Based Stains:

• Scrape off as much of the stain from the brush as you can. Run the bristles back and forth across a scrap piece of wood or cardboard to get more off. Rub the bristles on a rag.
• Pour mineral spirits or turpentine into an empty metal can or bowl that will not be used for any other purpose.
• Immerse the paint brushes into the solvent and allow it to penetrate the bristles.
• Once most of the stain is removed, properly discard the solvent and pour clean solvent into the can or bowl.
• Swish the brush in the solvent to make sure all the stain is out of the bristles. You can use a wire brush to comb through the bristles to make sure all the pigment is out.
• Dry the bristles with a rag, then wash the brush with warm water and soap.
• Rags soaked in stain that are left in a heap can build up heat and easily combust and catch fire. Allow the rags to dry thoroughly before disposal. Spread the rags outdoors, on the ground or on a metal rack, until completely dry. Then you can throw them in the trash.

Safety tip: Mineral spirits and turpentine should never be poured down your drains or outdoors. Put your used mineral spirits or turpentine in a sealable container and transport them to the hazardous-waste collection site.

For Water-Based Stains:

• Scrape off as much of the stain in the same manner as described above for oil-based stains.
• Wash brushes and rags with warm water and soap.