How to Stain Outdoor Wood Furniture​

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

When staining outdoor furniture, the first step is to make sure the wood is absolutely dry and free of mold and mildew. 

Be sure to check the underside too.

If the wood has stains from mold or mildew, you can properly prepare the surface with a premium cleaner like Woodluxe® All-in-One Wood Cleaner. For mild cases, you can mix your own solution of one part household bleach to three parts water. It’s best to do this outside or in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to rinse the furniture and allow it to dry completely before applying an exterior wood stain.

If the weather is cold, move the furniture indoors to dry. In mild weather, it’s fine to place the furniture in a garage, carport, or other shelter from the rain. Don’t cover the furniture with plastic or a tarp, as doing so will not allow enough air circulation for thorough drying.

Step 2: Sand Your Exterior Wood Furniture

The next step is to smooth the surface to be stained. If the old finish is in fairly good condition, you can prep the surface with sandpaper. Start with a coarse grit, working with the grain, then move to a fine grit until you obtain a smooth finish. An orbital hand sander is the perfect tool for this job. 

If the old finish is in poor condition, you may choose to remove it down to the bare wood. This can be accomplished with a quality exterior wood stain remover such as Woodluxe® Wood Stain Remover.

Step 3: Apply Your Exterior Wood Stain​

The recommended application method for staining outdoor wood furniture is by brush. Apply stain in the direction of the grain. 

When choosing the best wood stain for outdoor furniture, select a product that is known to protect and beautify.

Woodluxe® Exterior Stain is formulated to protect against the harshest weather conditions as well as UV rays. Woodluxe offers a range of colors and opacities.

Step 4: Dry & Maintain​

Let the wood furniture dry in a clean, dust-free, well-ventilated area. Don’t leave it outside to dry, as wind and air may deposit dust and particles onto the wet surface.

Dry times vary. It is important to consult the label on the can or read the Technical Data Sheet for the product you choose.

Once the furniture is dry, you’re good to go. Situate your furniture where it won’t be under a drip line from a roof or tree limb. An occasional wash with Woodluxe All-in-One Wood Cleaner will help you enjoy your freshly stained outdoor wood furniture for years to come.

If your outdoor furniture is made from a material other than wood—like wicker, wrought iron, aluminum, or plastic—visit your locally owned Benjamin Moore store to get expert prep instructions and product recommendations.

Once your outdoor furniture is looking its best, try painting or staining an outdoor fence for your next project.