Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Spur, TX

If your wood stain is still rubbing off after the recommended drying time, it means the pigments didn’t soak into the wood properly and remain on the surface. There are a few possible causes, including applying the stain in hot temperatures, applying too much stain, or failing to wipe off excess before it dries completely.

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 you spill wood refinishing oil, wipe up the liquid quickly without spreading the stain and then use soap and water or a stain remover to get rid of the spot. Since the product is oil based, using a detergent like dish soap or a thinner like mineral spirits will help take out the stain. You may need to repeat this process multiple times to remove the stain.

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.