Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Bay Port, MI

For small, simple pieces that aren’t antiques, a professional furniture refinisher can usually refinish a piece in two to three hours, while larger pieces—like bed frames and full dining sets—could take several days. Your refinishing professional should be able to give you an estimated timeline for the work before getting started so that you can plan to be without your furniture during the process. Antique furniture might require additional time and take a week or more to refinish, as they require special care to avoid damage.

If your wood furniture is sticky after already cleaning it, it’s likely from using too many polishes or waxes. You’ll need to remove some of the excess wax with a cloth and warm water mixed with dish soap. You can then reapply the wax or polish afterwards, but try to use a much smaller amount and wipe away any excess.

Wood stain does go bad, but it will last in the can for between three and six years, provided you use proper storage techniques. Storing wood stain in open containers or in extremely low or high temperatures will cause your wood stain to become unusable much more quickly. Water- and latex-based wood stains typically last for just two to four years, while oil-based wood stains can last for three to six years.

Wood stains last anywhere from two to five years, depending on exposure to the elements, your local climate, the type of stain, and the surface it’s on. For instance, vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal surfaces. Some types of woods, like dense hardwoods, will require a recoat yearly, as they are too dense for the stain to absorb. In any event, apply a recoat every 2 to 4 years. As for storage, a can of unopened stain can last up to 5 years, though results may vary.