Cabinet Staining Guide: Complete Tutorial

Staining vs Painting Cabinets

Understanding the difference helps you choose the right approach:

When to Stain

• Cabinets are solid wood (not MDF, laminate, or particleboard)
• You want to see the natural wood grain
• Going from one wood tone to another
• Matching other wood elements in your home

When to Paint Instead

• Cabinets are MDF, laminate, or have veneer
• You want a solid, uniform color
• Wood is low-quality or has significant flaws
• You want white, gray, or non-wood colors

Types of Cabinet Stain

Choose the right type of wood stain for cabinets:

Oil-Based Stain

• Pros: Deep penetration, rich color, long working time
• Cons: Strong odor, longer dry time, requires mineral spirits
• Best for: Raw wood, traditional looks
• Top pick: Minwax Wood Finish

Gel Stain

• Pros: Won't run, easy to apply, works on many surfaces
• Cons: Doesn't penetrate as deeply
• Best for: Vertical surfaces, over existing finishes
• Top pick: General Finishes Gel Stain

Water-Based Stain

• Pros: Low odor, fast drying, easy cleanup
• Cons: Raises wood grain, less depth of color
• Best for: Quick projects, light colors
• Top pick: Varathane Water-Based Stain

Popular Cabinet Stain Colors

These are the most popular cabinet stain colors for 2026:

How to Stain Cabinets: Step-by-Step

Follow this cabinet staining process for professional results:

Materials Needed

Step 1: Remove Doors & Hardware

1. Label each door and drawer with painter's tape (U1, L1, etc.)
2. Remove all hinges and hardware
3. Keep hardware in labeled bags

Step 2: Strip Old Finish (If Needed)

If changing stain color or finish is failing:

1. Apply chemical stripper per manufacturer directions
2. Wait recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes)
3. Scrape off with plastic scraper
4. Apply second coat if needed
5. Neutralize stripper per instructions

Step 3: Sand Surfaces

Sanding progression:

1. Start with 80-100 grit for heavy removal
2. Progress to 120 grit
3. Finish with 180-220 grit for smooth surface
4. Always sand with the grain
5. Use sanding sponges for detailed areas

Step 4: Clean Thoroughly

• Vacuum all sanding dust
• Wipe with tack cloth
• Clean with denatured alcohol for oil stains
• Let dry completely

Step 5: Apply Wood Conditioner (Optional)

For soft woods like pine that absorb stain unevenly:

• Apply pre-stain conditioner
• Let soak 5-15 minutes
• Wipe off excess
• Apply stain within 2 hours

Step 6: Apply Stain

1. Work in a well-ventilated area
2. Apply stain with brush, foam pad, or cloth
3. Work in manageable sections
4. Let stain penetrate 5-15 minutes (longer = darker)
5. Wipe off excess with clean lint-free cloth
6. Wipe with the grain
7. Let dry 24 hours

Step 7: Apply Second Stain Coat (If Needed)

• For darker color, apply additional stain coats
• Let each coat dry 24 hours
• Light sand with 320 grit between coats
• 2-3 coats maximum (more can look muddy)

Step 8: Apply Clear Topcoat

Topcoat options:

• Polyurethane: Durable, available in oil or water-based
• Lacquer: Professional choice, fast-drying
• Varnish: Traditional, good for wood

Application:

1. Apply thin, even coats with brush or sprayer
2. Let dry between coats (follow product directions)
3. Light sand with 320-400 grit between coats
4. Apply 2-3 coats for durability

Step 9: Reassemble

1. Let final coat cure 2-3 days minimum (1-2 weeks ideal)
2. Reinstall hardware
3. Rehang doors using your labeling system
4. Adjust hinges as needed

Common Cabinet Staining Mistakes