Why Is My Stained Wood Sticky?

The right wood stain is an exceptional way to enhance the beauty of wooden flooring or wood furniture. With the variety of color choices available, the right tone to match or accentuate your décor has never been more accessible. However, wood stain can become sticky and feel damp or tacky to the touch if it isn’t applied correctly. Sticky stain then becomes a magnet for dust, fingerprints, and any dirt or debris it comes in contact with. Ick!

Understandably, this can be a frustrating experience and often requires refinishing to remedy. If you find yourself asking, “Why is my stained wood sticky?” Here are some potential causes and actionable steps  you can take to prevent this from happening again.

You Didn’t Prep the Wood Correctly

To stop the stain from turning into a sticky mess, you first need to prepare the wood properly. Sanding the wood thoroughly with fine-grit sandpaper will help to guarantee that the wood is smooth and that all surface coatings have been removed. Rough wood or surface coatings may hinder the new wood stain’s ability to permeate the wood.

Sanding also opens the wood’s pores, making it easier for the wood to absorb the stain. After sanding, be sure to remove any dust from the wood by sweeping or vacuuming it up, and then wipe down the wooden surface to be treated with a damp cloth.

To open up the grain for maximum penetration on interior wood before treatment, enlist the help of WOCA Intensive Wood Cleaner for wood floors or WOCA Intensive Cleaner Spray for wood surfaces such as staircases, doors, or panels. Just make sure to have let the wood dry completely before applying stain.

You Used the Wrong Stain

Once the wood is adequately prepared, it’s time to choose a wood stain. Many types of wood stain are available and choosing the right one for your project is crucial. You want to be sure to use a product that provides a highly durable finish with low odor, is safe for the environment, and is non-toxic. You should also use high-quality products with a proven track record.

Luckily, WOCA has you covered. WOCA offers a variety of premium oil finishes in a full palette of nine designer colors. Made from plant-based oils and water-based cleaners, WOCA products are not only reliable but they’re sustainable, too. All of our products are VOC free or low in VOCs, making them safer for you, your family, and your furniture.

You Didn’t Apply It Correctly

Application is everything. Once you’ve chosen the right stain for your project, you need to make sure that you apply it properly.

Start by stirring the stain thoroughly so that the pigment is evenly distributed. For best results, apply an event amount of stain to the wood using a clean, high-quality applicator pad or lint-free cloth. 

To control the amount of stain you’re applying, work in small sections and follow the direction of the wood grain. Make sure you have even coverage with no gaps and no darker overlapping areas. Allow the stain to sit for anywhere from 5-15 minutes, depending on how large the surface is, how deep of a tone you prefer, and the specific application instructions that come with the stain. (Always double check the application instructions.) Then carefully wipe up any excess.

 

You Didn’t Let It Dry Long Enough

You know what they say about patience. After applying a fresh stain, it’s necessary to allow it to dry completely. Depending on the type of wood and weather, this can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours. In some cases, it may even take several days. During this time, avoid touching or walking on the wood as much as possible, as this can cause the stain to become sticky.

 

You Didn’t Maintain It

Once the stain is dry, keeping it well-maintained with proper after care is of paramount importance. Wait 3 to 5 days after application before exposing your floor or wooden surface to water or cleaners, then maintain a regular cleaning schedule. Regular cleaning with products specially formulated for cleaning oil-finished wooden floors can go a long way to keeping the stain fresh, clean, and protected from daily wear and tear.

Make a plan for daily, bi-weekly, and quarterly maintenance. Having the tools you need to clean up and dry spills as they happen is vital to avoid the wood becoming discolored or sticky.

With proper preparation, the right stain, and proper maintenance, you can protect and beautify your investment without the risk of annoying, sticky wood stain on your floors or surfaces.

Ready to stock up on what you need for interior wood staining and cleaning? Click here to get started. (Got an exterior project in mind, instead? Click here.)