12 best household wood stains

Household wood stains are products used in the realm of stains, finishes, and sealers in the context of home improvement and woodworking projects. These stains are specifically designed for application to wooden surfaces to enhance their appearance, protect them from damage, and preserve their natural beauty. Here is some information about household wood stains:

  1. Types of Wood Stains:

    • Oil-Based Stains: These stains are oil-based and are known for their durability and richness in color. They penetrate the wood deeply, offering long-lasting protection.
    • Water-Based Stains: Water-based stains are eco-friendly, fast-drying, and have lower VOC emissions compared to oil-based stains. They are ideal for indoor projects.
    • Gel Stains: Gel stains have a thicker consistency, making them easier to apply on vertical surfaces or woods with uneven textures. They are often chosen for their controlled application.
  2. Stain Colors: Wood stains come in a wide range of colors, from clear and natural tones to various shades of brown, red, and even exotic colors. The choice of color depends on the desired look and the wood's natural grain.

  3. Application Methods: Wood stains can be applied using brushes, rags, or foam applicators. Some stains are designed for spraying applications, which can be more efficient for larger projects.

  4. Preparation: Before staining, it's important to prepare the wood surface by sanding it to a smooth finish and removing any dust or debris. Proper surface preparation ensures an even and consistent stain application.

  5. Sealers and Finishes: After staining, it's common to apply a wood sealer or finish to protect the wood from moisture, UV damage, and wear and tear. These products can be clear or have a slight tint to enhance the appearance further.

  6. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Wood stains are categorized as suitable for either indoor or outdoor use. Outdoor stains are formulated to withstand the elements and provide extra protection against weathering.

  7. Wood Type: The type of wood being stained can influence the final result. Different woods absorb stains differently, affecting the color and appearance. It's advisable to test a small area before staining the entire surface.

  8. Drying Time: The drying time for wood stains varies based on the type of stain used. Oil-based stains typically take longer to dry than water-based stains. Proper drying time is crucial for achieving the desired finish.

  9. Cleanup: Depending on whether the stain is oil-based or water-based, cleanup involves using specific solvents or water, respectively, to clean brushes and applicators.

Household wood stains are commonly used in a variety of woodworking and home improvement projects, including staining furniture, cabinetry, decks, fences, and more. They offer an effective way to enhance the appearance of wood surfaces while providing protection against the elements and everyday wear and tear.Choosing the right type and color of wood stain is essential for achieving the desired aesthetic and functional results in your woodworking projects.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best household wood stains on the market
  

Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar, 12 Ounce

Based on 481 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar, 12 Ounce

From the Manufacturer

Krylon exterior wood stain is the first and only exterior wood stain in a convenient spray can. As durable as it is beautiful, it goes on smooth to leave a flawless finish that will hold up under the toughest conditions.

  • Premium, durable stain
  • Water repellent and UV fade protection
  • Fast, even coverage
  • Model number: K03601000

User questions & answers

Question: Are you able to still see the wood grain after applying
Answer: Yes, since it's really a stain. I used on a bare wood chair which had never been painted and I used the cedar color on. I also used it on an old rattan chair in a darker color and it turned out perfectly. You can see the grain on both items.
Question: Is this the price for one can
Answer: Yes. Only one can came to me when I ordered.
Question: Can this be applied over fading exterior latex stain? Thank you
Answer: I applied it over NEW lattice for a garden trellis- sorry, but I do not know about latex-you might give it a try as long as the old will not peel off. Hope this helps. ^__^
Question: Dose this need a clear finish on top to pertect the stain
Answer: I used the stain to stain my mailbox post. Didn't use a clear finish over it. I liked the matte finish look. It held up in the weather just fine.

Storm Brand - Step 1 Clean - 1 Gallon Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner to Remove Mold and Mildew Stains - use for Carpet, Wood, Laminate, Concrete, Drywall, Stone, Plastic, siding, Outdoor Furniture

Storm System

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Storm’s Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner solution is an exclusive hydrogen peroxide cleaner featuring an advanced formulation designed specifically to clean and remove stains caused by mold and mildew on most surfaces around the home. When applied, the powerful formula penetrates deep, producing a high-foaming action that instantly lifts stains and brightens right before your eyes without causing damage to most surfaces. After cleaning, kill, disinfect and deodorize.

  • Instant high-foaming, penetrating stain lifter
  • Bleach-free stain remover and cleaner
  • Formulated to reduce effort required to clean and remove stains
  • Whitens and brightens without harming most surfaces
  • Use on Carpet, Wood, Laminate, Drywall, Plastic, Tile and many more surfaces

User questions & answers

Question: What percentage is this solution
Answer: I don't know. But I do not like it.

Furniture Repair Kit Wood Markers Wax Sticks, for Stains, Scratches, Wood Floors, Tables, Desks, Carpenters, Bedposts, Touch Ups, and Cover Ups (21)

DAIXISM

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Step 1:Select desired color, fill the crack with a filler wax

Tips:



1. If there are larger holes,please warm the wax a bit before use to soften it , it will fill hole more easily

. 2. If the color is not what you want, we suggest that you can mix in a couple of the other wax colors.



Step 2:Scrape off excess wax with a card





Step 3:Select desired color, retouch the surface by drawing over scratches with touch up marker.



Tips:

1. You can blended several shades of markers on each piece.

2. Start with the lightest color, if the first pass proved to be too light,

you can went back over it with the same markeror shifted to a darker shade.

3. For better perference, please make sure the previous color is already dry before you blend other shades.

  • PRODUCT DETAILS – 21 Piece Furniture Repair kit, 10 touch up Markers and 10 Wax Sticks With 1 Sharpener. Special stain pen for wood
  • TEN UNIQUE COLORS - Both large felt-tip Markers and cover up Wax Sticks come in 10 unique colors, Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany, Burnt Sienna, Chestnut, White, Grey and Black shades to match the any colors of your furniture. You can repair furniture by yourself, do not need ask experience professional to retouch your scratched furniture etc
  • EXPAND USEAGE– These markers and crayon sticks can cover scratches, nicks, scuffs and discoloration on wood, wood-veneer, desk furniture, wood floors, trim, cabinets, tables, beds ,frames , doors and many more
  • EASY TO USE - These are very easy by drawing over the scratch, nick or discoloration and watch it disappear permanently. It’s a greatest ideal for any kind of wooden furniture. Dries in seconds and color fast, which is a very convenient repair tool for family use
  • The marker stain is alcohol-soluble. It easy to remove the excess stain. So - use the marker to make the color repair, then rub the alcohol wipe lightly over the repaired area to remove the excess surface stain but leave the stain in the scratch which is below the surface.

Miller SF1203 Wood Stain Scratch Fix Pen / Wood Repair Marker - Black Brown Wood

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An easy-to-use pen containing actual wood stain (not ink) designed to correct scratches, blemishes and imperfections on dark brown or near-black wood. The stain from the pen soaks into wood and mimics the surrounding color, making it extremely easy to match a wide array of black/brown wood shades. It will also never run or smear, making it easy to wax, clean or polish over it just like the rest of the floor or surface. The special filter also makes highly economical use of the stain, as each pen contains upwards of 1,000 coats of stain.

From the Manufacturer

The specially designed filter applies the stain in an easy and controlled manner, making it virtually impossible to use too much. And because it dries instantly, it’s easy to tell if more coats are needed.

  • Instantly dries and coats over to hides scuffs, gouges and stains
  • Perfect blend with any very black/brown wood including dark walnut, ebony, espresso, and any black/brown stained wood
  • Contains waterproof wood stain instead of ink – wax and polish won’t smudge it
  • Applicable on any type of wood surface, from floors to furniture
  • Filtered pen point makes pen last for over 1,000 coats

User questions & answers

Question: Is this skin staining
Answer: It didn’t stain my skin, it’s really all I can say.
Question: My furniture has ornate designs made of something other than wood. Will this work on the ornate design even if it’s not made of wood
Answer: This product is horrible. Applies more like a marker and less like a furniture wood stain pen. I don't recommend this product at all.
Question: Is this safe to use on crib to touch up? Food grade safe or something like that
Answer: Highly unlikely it's food grade safe. I would only use to touch crib as long as baby is nowhere near the touched up area.
Question: Has anyone tried any of these pens on the Ikea Hemnes dark brown/black line of furniture
Answer: Just used the black/brown pen on our black/brown Hemnes furniture and it looks great!!

Furniture Repair Kit Wood Markers - Set of 13 - Markers and Wax Sticks with Sharpener Kit, for Stains, Scratches, Wood Floors, Tables, Desks, Carpenters, Bedposts, Touch Ups, and Cover Ups

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Total Furniture Markup Repair Kit

It is a repair markers which are very easy by drawing over the scratch, nick or discoloration and watch it disappear permanently.

It’s a greatest ideal for any kind of wooden furniture. Dries in seconds and color fast, which is a very convenient repair tool for family use.

Color: OAK (oak), MAPLE (light brown), MAHOGANY (reddish brown), CHERRY (cherry), WALNUT (walnut), BLACK (black)

Material:

The pen body: plastic

The pen tip: fiber

Size(approx.): Pen length: 13.5cm/5.31in

Instructions for use:

(A):Choose the color that closely matches the surface to be repaired;

(B):Test it on an inconspicuous area;

(C):If the color matches, then apply to the scratched area;

(D):Let the area dry;

(E):If necessary, re-apply to darken;

List:

6 * Repair Markers

6 * Paper Wrapped Wax Sticks

1 * Sharpener

notice:

Please contact us through the seller's news in the first time if you have any dissatisfaction or doubt about our products, and we will give you a satisfactory solution within 24 hours!

  • PRODUCT DETAILS - This 13 piece kit includes 6 Repair Markers, 6 paper wrapped wax sticks and 1 wax stick sharpener packaged in a blister card.
  • 6 UNIQUE COLORS - Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany and Black to match the color of your furniture. Now there's no need for you to call a professional to retouch your scuffed furniture. Become the pro yourself!
  • PREMIUM QUALITY - Top quality markers and wax sticks that cover scratches, nicks, scuffs, and discoloration on furniture, cabinets, tables, beds and more. 100% effective and permanent.
  • EASY TO USE - Simply draw over the scratch, allow it to quickly dry, and watch the scratches disappear right before your eyes! These are to use on all types of wooden furniture. Use the included sharpener to sharpen the wax sticks.
  • 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - DAIXI will make sure that you will be satisfied with this product you buy from us. You are protected with our 100% No Questions Asked Guarantee for either a replacement or refund. We care about only putting out high quality products that satisfy your needs. If there is anything you need that we don't offer, we go and find the best for you!

User questions & answers

Question: are these water proof
Answer: Yes,these are water proof material,
Question: My floor is stained with a reddish brown stain but I can't remember the name of the color will this still work
Answer: You'd better decide what color you need so that the color of the marker pen can match your floor well.
Question: Does this work on leather
Answer: I imagine the markers would, but not sure how well it will do. These are specific color to specific types of wood.
Question: I splashed some nail polish remover on my coffee table. Would this help cover up the discoloration
Answer: Yes, you can choose the color you want, and decorate the surface by scratching it with a scratch mark, starting with the lightest color. If the first pass proves too light, you can return to it with the same mark. Above, shift to a darker shadow. For better results, make sure the previous color is dry before mixing other tones.

Varathane 215361 Wood Stain Touch-Up Marker For Dark Walnut, Espresso

Rust-Oleum

Based on 701 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Varathane Wood Stain Touch-Up Markers provide a quick, effortless one-step method for applying stain and finish. The easy-to-use marker is perfect for reaching hard-to-reach areas to revitalize furniture and other wood stained items. These markers can also be used on arts and crafts or other small projects to provide a decorative touch.

From the Manufacturer

A fast and easy way to touch up minor scratches on stained wood

  • Great way to repair minor scratches and blemishes on wood stained furniture, cabinets, moldings, floors and more
  • Quick, easy-to-use, one-step method to apply and finish
  • Dries to the touch in as little as 30 minutes allowing for quick fixes
  • Convenient felt-tip allows for quick precision staining in hard-to-reach areas
  • Color group assortment provides excellent matching of Varathane Wood Stains

User questions & answers

Question: I have a small unfinished wooden dresser knobs. Wood this stain marker work on them
Answer: In my opinion, it would work just fine. I used the marker to deepen the stain color of wooden salt & pepper mills. It really did well on that. Hope this helps.
Question: Will this work on covering up spots of white paint on wood
Answer: I don't think so. It needs to soak into the wood and the paint will prevent that. It won't even stick to the paint. Is there a way you can gently scratch off the paint? Then you could stain the spots.
Question: How many oz is this marker
Answer: 1/3 of an oz.
Question: I have light maple floors. What color should i order
Answer: Look at Mohawk products for light maple touch up stain pen. If you have deep scratches you will need to fill in with a light colored wax stick.

Product features

Varathane 215361 Wood Stain Touch-Up Marker For Dark Walnut, Espresso

Hide minor scratches and nicks in stained wood with the Rust-Oleum Varathane Stain Touch-Up Marker. This felt-tipped tool lets you apply stain with pinpoint precision—for easy, quick fixes. Also great for hard-to-reach areas and crafts.

FOR BEST RESULTS

Press pen down and apply directly to wood. Quickly wipe off excess.

Ready Seal 100 Clear, 1-Gallon Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer, 1 gallon (Packaging may vary)

Ready Seal

Based on 84 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ready Seal 100 Clear, 1-Gallon Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer, 1 gallon (Packaging may vary)

  • Requires no primer
  • May be applied using sprayer, roller or brush
  • Requires no back brushing or wet-line application
  • Can be applied in any temperature range

User questions & answers

Question: How often is re-application typically needed
Answer: Ready Seal says every 3-5 years.
Question: Can you use this on interior wood? Looking for something vs polyurethane to coat an inside log cabin walls
Answer: Yes I think it would work well. It is basically an oil with a small amount of sealer in it. Works well on outdoor furniture
Question: is this transparent or "clear" is a type of stain
Answer: So far my experience with the clear has been just that "clear". Before finding the clear we used the Light Oak on our cedar as it was the lightest stain we could find, but when I found the clear I wanted to try it and have been very pleased. We have been using Ready seal for about 3 or 4 years now.
Question: Can i use this on untreated wood that is getting moisture from the outside of my barn
Answer: Yes you can,Just remember the clear does not offer ultra violet protection

Varathane 269400 Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain, Half Pint, Ebony

Varathane

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Varathane premium fast dry wood stain is a high-performance stain enhanced with nano pigment particles. Nano pigments provide ultimate color quality and exceptional wood grain highlighting allowing for maximum color in one coat. Varathane fast dry wood stain seals wood pores and hardens in just one hour. Easily brushes on without the use of a pre-stain or wood conditioner.

  • Ideal for use on all interior wood projects: furniture, cabinets, doors, trim and paneling
  • One-coat coverage, fast-drying Oil based formula
  • Dries to the touch in just 1 hour and covers up to 70 square feet
  • High performance stain system enhanced with nano pigment particles
  • Highlights natural wood grain to reveal wood's beauty

User questions & answers

Question: Can this stain be thinned out? If so, with what
Answer: I haven't tried but other reviews indicate the fast drying formula is already thinned out
Question: Looking to paint hollow doors- Do I need a wood conditioner first? Or will this cover well in 1 coat
Answer: This is not a paint, but rather a stain. If you're looking to cover up defects or anything along those lines this will not work. Yes, it will alter the color of the wood with one use though.
Question: Is this considered a gel stain or regular stain
Answer: It's not a gel stain but the consistency is thicker than a regular stain.
Question: Should this be applied with a brush or cloth
Answer: We used a brush to apply and a cloth to rub it in/off after a few minutes. It's very easy to work with.

Product features

Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain

Varathane Fast Dry Wood Stains are 3 times faster than ordinary stains.

Sand with Increasing Fine Grits

  • Sand bare wood in the direction of the grain
  • Start with #120 grit sandpaper and progress through #150, #180 and #220 grits
  • Wipe clean with mineral spirits

Stain with Brush or Lint-Free Cloth

  • Apply liberally with brush or clean, lint-free rag
  • Wait 5-10 minutes according to color preference
  • Wipe off with clean, lint-free cloth in the direction of wood grain

Cover with Poly for Extra Protection

  • For long term protection and durability, top coat with Varathane Polyurethane
  • Can be coated within 1 hour of stain application

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Project

Minwax 70009444 Wood Finish Penetrating Stain, quart, Cherry

Minwax

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Minwax 70009444 Wood Finish Penetrating Stain, quart, Cherry

From the Manufacturer

Minwax is America's leading brand of wood finishing and wood care products. From staining and protection, to preparation, maintenance, cleaning and repair, Minwax makes and keeps wood beautiful.

  • Available in 28 beautiful colors.
  • Can be used to add beauty to any bare or stripped wood surface.
  • It is ideal for staining unfinished wood furniture, cabinets, wood door, trim, molding and hardwood floors.
  • Penetrates deep into wood fibers to highlight the grain
  • America's favorite wood finish

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a larger size of minwax stain
Answer: yes 1Gal
Question: Is there a gallon size or 5 gallon of your minwax woodfinish penetrating stain,cherry #235? Thank u
Answer: Only 1Gal , no 5gal
Question: How much does it cover? Will 1 can be okay for a chest
Answer: Yes, you could probably do 10 chests
Question: is there a difference between 235 cherry and classic cherry
Answer: I have never used these particular colors but it has been my experience that if they were the same they would have the same name...I am sure their is a difference between them even if its a subtle one....if you have one of each or partials you can combine the two to make a uniform color...just make sure you have enough to complete your project.

Katzco Total Furniture Repair Kit - Set of 34 - Resin Repair Wood Filler, Brushes, Markers with Plastic Scraper - for Stains, Scratches, Wood Floors, Tables, Desks, Carpenters, Bedposts

Based on 254 reviews Check latest price
  • SET INCLUDES two sets of our most powerful home improvement repair compounds including 8 Precision Tip Markers, 8 Wax Crayons, 8 Wood Fillers, 8 Application Brushes, 1 Crayon Sharpener, and 1 Smoothing Spatula.
  • COLORS TO MATCH YOUR HOME include common styles like White, Black, Maple, Cherry, Gray, Mahogany, Walnut, and Oak. Or blend different colors together to perfectly match your decor.
  • RETOUCH IMPERFECTIONS LIKE A PRO and permanently restore nicks, scuffs, and discoloration on floors and furniture like cabinets, tables, beds, frames, and much more.
  • REVITALIZE VINTAGE FURNITURE quickly and cleanly. Pack your wax or resin wood filler into the desired blemish with the included brush. Then smooth it out to be flush using the provided scraper, remove any excess, and let dry.
  • TOP-RATED QUALITY trusted by countless do it yourself heroes. Katzco Wood Fillers contain a special carpenter quality formula to match delicate wood finishes and seals in to last a lifetime.

User questions & answers

Question: Do these markers, crayons and fillers have a sheen when dry? Thank you
Answer: Not that I have noticed. I have only used the markers out of the kit so far. They work great and I don't see a shine. But, I am using it for small touch ups.

Katzco Furniture Repair Kit Wood Markers - Set of 13 - Markers and Wax Sticks with Sharpener - for Stains, Scratches, Floors, Tables, Desks, Carpenters, Bedposts, Touch-Ups, Cover-Ups, Molding Repair

Katzco

Based on 14 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Furniture Repair Markers Kit - Set Of 12 - Markers And Wax Sticks Kit - For Stains, Scratches, Wood Floors, Tables, Desks, Carpenters, Bedposts, Touch Ups, And Cover Ups - By Katzco Need to repair the beautiful finished paint of your wooden furniture from scratches and blemishes? Our Furniture Repair Markers And Wax Sticks Set will do the job! You don’t need to spend money for a professional to do the job while you can for do it yourself like a pro for cheaper! Depending if it is scratches or scuffs both can be handled with this Set. Before you start choose the right color you wish to use. For scratch first use Wax Sticks to fill the gap and wipe off, then use a Marker for a nice finish. And for minor scuffs use just the marker and Voilá. Our easy to use Furniture Repair Set will help you do it yourself and repair your wood furniture fast. These Touch Up Markers includes most colors of wooden furniture such as Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany and Black shades. A perfect must have tool in your house. You can now repair your furniture in a low-cost and convenient way. 13 Piece Furniture Repair Markers And Wax Sticks Kitludes: 6 Repair Markers, 6 paper wrapped Wax Sticks. Nicely packed in blister card. So what do you think, isn’t this awesome?! Get your Furniture Repair Set now!

  • PRODUCT DETAILS - This 13 piece kit includes 6 Repair Markers, 6 paper wrapped wax sticks and 1 wax stick sharpener packaged in a blister card.
  • 6 UNIQUE COLORS - Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany and Black to match the color of your furniture. Now there's no need for you to call a professional to retouch your scuffed furniture. Become the pro yourself!
  • PREMIUM QUALITY - Top quality markers and wax sticks that cover scratches, nicks, scuffs, and discoloration on furniture, cabinets, tables, beds and more. 100% effective and permanent.
  • EASY TO USE - Simply draw over the scratch, allow it to quickly dry, and watch the scratches disappear right before your eyes! These are safe to use on all types of wooden furniture. Use the included sharpener to sharpen the wax sticks.
  • 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - Katzco will make sure that you will be satisfied with this product you buy from us. You are protected with our 100% No Questions Asked Guarantee for either a replacement or refund. We care about only putting out high quality products that satisfy your needs. If there is anything you need that we don't offer, we go and find the best for you!

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work on small scratches in vinyl plank floors
Answer: I don’t know how you define natural paste wax. This has been around for many years and is one of the best waxes for use on wood work and metal. I rate it as a top wax for a woodworker.
Question: are they permanate
Answer: Wax on... Wax off... Karate Kid
Question: Does this work on wood veneer kitchen cabinets? I have edges that have faded over time and the color is gone
Answer: If it's a wood veneer that has been finished, Trewax is a great option. Apply it, let it dry some and then buff it with a lint free rag. You'll have to reapply every now and then (yearly).
Question: The wax crayons don’t really work but if I buy the markers will that work better
Answer: There is no silicone in this product. I don't have the can in front of me but I remember specifically purchasing it to lubricate the feeds on my jointer and planer because it didn't have silicone which is known to cause problems when finishing the wood.

Minwax 70006444 Wood Finish Penetrating Stain, quart, Special Walnut

Minwax

Based on 65 reviews Check latest price

Product description

70006 Size: 1 Quart Features: -Location: Interior -Container Size: 1 Qt. -Finish: Dark Wood

From the Manufacturer

Minwax is America's leading brand of wood finishing and wood care products. From staining and protection, to preparation, maintenance, cleaning and repair, Minwax makes and keeps wood beautiful.

User questions & answers

Question: How many square feet will the quart size do? I need to do 800 square feet, so how much would it take for this project (Hardwood Floors
Answer: I don't know,the can should tell you or go to Minwax website, I'm sure they can tell you.
Question: How many square feet does a quart cover
Answer: I never used mine, because the color was completely different from what was represented. As far as your question, it entirely depends on how many coats you use, but 16oz. will go pretty far for one coat.
Question: What kind of shiny finish can be used over this? Is this for exterior
Answer: I use MinWax Polyurethane gloss over it and it looks beautiful
Question: Minwax used to have a wood stain and sealer all in one. Is this that product
Answer: No it’s just stain and you have to use polyurethane on top to seal it

Latest Reviews

View all