Best Stains: Reddit’s Choice? (8 Top Stains!)

Imagine standing in the middle of a home improvement store, surrounded by countless cans of wood stains, each promising to enhance the beauty of your wood surfaces.

The colors range from deep mahogany to light pine, and the finishes vary from matte to glossy. You might feel overwhelmed, torn between the desire for a rich hue that brings out the grain of your wood and the need for a durable finish that can withstand the test of time.

With so many options available, how do you choose the best stain for your project? This is a dilemma faced by countless DIY enthusiasts and professional woodworkers alike.

And while there are many expert opinions on the subject, one of the most valuable resources for honest reviews and recommendations comes from the online community of Reddit.

In this article, I will explore eight of the top stains that have been highly recommended by Reddit users, delving into their features, benefits, and the types of projects they are best suited for. Let’s dive in, shall we?

The Importance of Choosing the Right Stain

Choosing the right wood stain is crucial. It’s not just about color, it’s about protecting and enhancing your wood.

Think of stain as more than just cosmetics. It’s a shield against UV rays, moisture, and everyday wear and tear. A good stain can significantly extend the life of your wood project, whether it’s a deck, a piece of furniture, or interior trim.

But how do you navigate the sea of options? First, consider the type of wood. Softwoods like pine absorb stain differently than hardwoods like oak or maple. The project’s purpose matters too.

Is it an indoor piece that needs to withstand occasional spills, or an outdoor project battling the elements? Finally, what kind of finish are you after? Do you want a matte, satin, or glossy look? These are all important questions.

I’ve seen firsthand the pitfalls of poor stain selection. A stain that’s too thin on a high- traffic floor can wear away quickly, leaving you with a patchy mess. Or a stain that doesn’t properly seal outdoor furniture can lead to rot and decay.

Reddit users often share their own horror stories and triumphs, offering valuable insights into avoiding these mistakes. They’ll often point out that proper prep work is key to a successful stain job.

The Top 8 Stains According to Reddit

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Based on my deep dives into Reddit threads and personal experience, here are eight stains that consistently get high praise.

1. Minwax Polyshades

• Name of the Stain: Minwax Polyshades.

  This is a classic, known for its convenience. It’s a stain and polyurethane in one! * User Recommendations: Reddit users often mention Polyshades for its ease of use, especially for beginners. One user said, “Polyshades was a lifesaver for my first furniture project. It’s forgiving and gives a decent finish.” * Application Process: Preparation is key. Lightly sand the surface, clean it thoroughly, and apply Polyshades in thin, even coats. Multiple coats will deepen the color and increase the sheen. * Final Appearance: Polyshades gives a glossy, furniture-like finish. The color is consistent and rich. * Durability and Longevity: While convenient, Polyshades isn’t the most durable option. It can be prone to scratching and chipping, especially in high-traffic areas. * Best Use Cases: It’s ideal for indoor furniture, decorative items, and projects where convenience outweighs ultimate durability.

2. Varathane Premium

• Name of the Stain: Varathane Premium Wood Stain.

  Varathane is renowned for its durability and vibrant color options. * User Recommendations: “Varathane is my go-to for floors,” one Reddit user commented. “It holds up incredibly well to wear and tear.” * Application Process: Sand the wood smooth, apply wood conditioner (especially on softwoods), and then apply the stain with a brush, rag, or foam applicator. Wipe off the excess stain after a few minutes. * Final Appearance: Varathane offers a beautiful, even color with excellent clarity. * Durability and Longevity: Varathane is known for its exceptional durability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and outdoor projects. * Best Use Cases: Floors, doors, and outdoor furniture where durability is paramount.

3. Rust-Oleum Ultimate

• Name of the Stain: Rust-Oleum Ultimate Wood Stain.

  Rust-Oleum offers a balance of affordability and quality. * User Recommendations: “I used Rust-Oleum on my kitchen cabinets, and I’m really happy with the results,” shared a Reddit user. “It was easy to apply, and the color is perfect.” * Application Process: Prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. Apply the stain with a brush or rag, and wipe off the excess. * Final Appearance: Rust-Oleum provides a rich, consistent color with a smooth finish. * Durability and Longevity: It offers good durability for indoor projects. * Best Use Cases: Cabinets, furniture, and other indoor projects where affordability and ease of use are important.

4. General Finishes Gel Stain

• Name of the Stain: General Finishes Gel Stain.

  Gel stain is a game-changer for difficult surfaces like veneer or fiberglass. * User Recommendations: “Gel stain saved my butt when I had to refinish a veneer dresser,” said a Reddit user. “It’s so much easier to work with than regular stain on those kinds of surfaces.” * Application Process: Clean the surface well. Apply the gel stain with a brush or rag, and wipe off the excess. Gel stain doesn’t penetrate the wood as much as regular stain, so it’s less likely to cause blotching. * Final Appearance: Gel stain creates a rich, even color with a slightly textured finish. * Durability and Longevity: Gel stain is durable and resistant to scratches and stains. * Best Use Cases: Veneer, fiberglass, and other non-porous surfaces where regular stain might not adhere properly.

5. Behr Premium

• Name of the Stain: Behr Premium Wood Stain.

  Behr is widely available and offers a wide range of colors. * User Recommendations: “Behr is my go-to for outdoor projects,” one Reddit user stated. “It’s weather-resistant and easy to find at Home Depot.” * Application Process: Prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. Apply the stain with a brush, roller, or sprayer. * Final Appearance: Behr provides a consistent color with a durable, weather-resistant finish. * Durability and Longevity: It offers excellent protection against UV rays and moisture, making it ideal for outdoor use. * Best Use Cases: Decks, fences, and other outdoor projects where weather resistance is essential.

6. Cabot Stain

• Name of the Stain: Cabot Stain.

  Cabot is known for its high-quality pigments and long-lasting protection. * User Recommendations: “Cabot is the only stain I trust for my deck,” one Reddit user declared. “It’s expensive, but it’s worth it for the longevity.” * Application Process: Prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. Apply the stain with a brush or sprayer. * Final Appearance: Cabot delivers a rich, natural-looking color with excellent clarity. * Durability and Longevity: It provides exceptional protection against UV rays, moisture, and mildew. * Best Use Cases: Decks, siding, and other exterior projects where long-lasting protection is crucial.

7. ZAR Wood Stain

• Name of the Stain: ZAR Wood Stain.

  ZAR is a favorite among professional woodworkers for its rich colors and easy application. * User Recommendations: “ZAR is the only stain I use on my custom furniture,” one Reddit user shared. “It’s easy to apply, and the colors are beautiful.” * Application Process: Prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. Apply the stain with a brush or rag, and wipe off the excess. * Final Appearance: ZAR offers a rich, consistent color with a smooth, even finish. * Durability and Longevity: It provides good durability for indoor projects. * Best Use Cases: Furniture, cabinets, and other indoor projects where a high-quality finish is desired.

8. Benjamin Moore Arborcoat

• Name of the Stain: Benjamin Moore Arborcoat.

  Benjamin Moore is a trusted brand known for its high-quality paints and stains. * User Recommendations: “Arborcoat is the best stain I’ve ever used for my fence,” one Reddit user exclaimed. “It’s easy to apply, and it looks great.” * Application Process: Prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. Apply the stain with a brush, roller, or sprayer. * Final Appearance: Arborcoat provides a rich, consistent color with a durable, weather-resistant finish. * Durability and Longevity: It offers excellent protection against UV rays, moisture, and mildew. * Best Use Cases: Fences, siding, and other exterior projects where long-lasting protection is essential.

Comparative Analysis

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a comparison table summarizing the key features of each stain:

Please note that prices are relative and may vary based on location and retailer.

One common theme I’ve noticed on Reddit is the emphasis on proper preparation. No matter how good the stain, a poorly prepared surface will lead to disappointing results.

Another trend is the growing popularity of water- based stains. They’re low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

User Experiences and Tips

Let’s get personal. I’ve seen some truly amazing transformations shared on Reddit, and I’ve had my own share of staining adventures.

One Redditor shared a story of refinishing an old oak table using General Finishes Gel Stain. The table had been neglected for years, with water stains and scratches covering the surface.

After careful sanding and cleaning, they applied the gel stain in a rich, dark walnut color. The result was stunning. The table looked brand new, with the grain beautifully enhanced.

Here are a few tips I’ve picked up from Reddit users and my own experience:

• Always test the stain on a scrap piece of wood before applying it to your project. This will give you a sense of the color and how it will look on your chosen wood.
• Use a wood conditioner before staining softwoods like pine. This will help to prevent blotching and ensure an even color.
• Apply the stain in thin, even coats. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.
• Wipe off the excess stain after a few minutes. This will prevent the stain from becoming too dark or uneven.
• Allow the stain to dry completely before applying a topcoat. This will prevent the stain from bleeding or smearing.

Conclusion

So, what’s the best stain? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best stain for your project depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

However, by considering the recommendations of the Reddit community and the factors I’ve discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and achieve beautiful, long- lasting results.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different stains and techniques. The most important thing is to have fun and create something you’re proud of.

Call to Action

Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite wood stains? Have you had any experiences, good or bad, with the stains I’ve mentioned in this article?

Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below or on social media. Let’s learn from each other and make our staining projects even better!

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