Scrapers, for example, take a long time and are labor-intensive. The same goes for a heat gun. While you could use a power sander or some form of rotary grinder, you’re going to deal with large amounts of dust that you’ll need to clean up. What to look for in a wood stain remover? If you want a simple and effective way to remove stains, a wood stain remover is the way to go. There are other methods for removing stain but none are as easy as using a wood stain remover.

The product should be left on for up to 30 minutes but not allowed to dry, so it is best to perform the application on a dry but overcast day, and you may need to apply further product before washing it off just to keep it wet. Once the time is up, you should wash it off with a pressure washer or hose. Being heavy-duty, the formula is highly toxic and should be washed off thoroughly and kept away from the skin as it is caustic. There are a few different types of wood stain removers, and we’ll discuss each of them in greater detail below: This wood stripper from DEFY is intended to remove clear or semi-transparent stains from any type of wood. It will also remove weathered sealers and varnishes. It comes ready to go and does not need to be diluted. You simply use a garden sprayer to mist the product all over damp wood and then wash it off, ideally with a pressure washer. If you don’t have any special equipment, you can work in small areas and apply this stripper with a paintbrush and then wash it off with a hose. The formula works to lift of the previous stain which can then be washed away with water.

Surface Preparation

All of this comes at a fair price, too. "The bottle isn't huge," notes our tester. "But, you still get enough to work on really large or tough stains. The bristle applicator is a major bonus as the friction really seemed to help lift some of the tougher stains, like makeup." This product seemed to work better on set-in stains. For those spots and smears that you've been putting off, or that need more attention, it's worth your consideration—as long as it's not wine or foundation, as those faded but were not completely removed. It also has a very light scent, which our tester found to be pleasant.

If your wood is coated with wood oils, whether that be teak oil, linseed oil or another type of wood oil we’d first and foremost recommend you strip them using Aquanett. It’s designed specifically for removing wood oils and it’s a gel formula so it’s easy to use. If your wood stain remover consists of potent chemicals, it could be hazardous to both you and your family’s health. Look for a wood stain remover that’s safe for indoor use if you’ll be using it inside your home. Rinse with copious amounts of freshwater, using the highest pressure from the water source available or use a Power Washer at 500-1000 psi (35-70 bars) working in direction of grain. (Rinse adjacent areas at same time).You have to remember to wear your gloves before handling this chemical product. However, it is good enough you are working on an outdoor project.