Buyer’s Guide to Stains
This buyer’s guide summarizes the environmental pros and cons and durability of the three major categories of wood stains: natural oil (made with linseed and other oils as binders and petroleum-derived solvents as carriers), acrylic or urethane (made with acrylic or urethane as binders and petroleum-derived solvents as carriers), and water-based (made with acrylic or urethane as binders and water as a carrier).
Stains protect wood from water and abrasion to varying degrees when used alone; they can be sealed with a clear finish to increase durability. We recommend using a water-based sealer because of its low environmental and health impacts, quick drying time, and ease of clean-up. All leftover stain must be handled as hazardous waste when you dispose of it, so try not to buy more than you need.
For a comparison of specific products, see The Green Guide's Wood Finishes Buying Guide.
| Material | Selection Tips | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Oils | Many states limit VOC content to 250 g/L. Levels far below that start to sacrifice quality. Look for low-toxic and low-biocide products. | * Minimally processed * Derived from renewable materials (seeds and nuts) * Few people are allergic or sensitive to these oils * Long-lasting; no coating to flake off * Don’t require sealer, saving resources | * Long drying times result in longer VOC exposure * High levels of petroleum-derived and chemical solvents * Clean-up requires high-VOC solvents |
| Acrylic/Urethane | Many states limit VOC content to 250 g/L. Levels far below that start to sacrifice quality. Look for low-toxic and low-biocide products. | * Slightly lower VOC content than natural oil stains * More water resistant than water-based stains | * Manufacture of synthetic binders is polluting and energy intensive * Solvents are derived from non-renewable petroleum * Clean-up requires high-VOC solvents |
| Water-based | Many states limit VOC content to 250 g/L, but levels down to 50 g/L are available. | * Solvent is primarily water * Low VOC content * Quick drying; shorter VOC exposure * Fewer toxic substances; easier to find nontoxic products * Spills clean up with soap and water | * Manufacture of synthetic binders is polluting and energy intensive * May contain toxic ethylene glycol solvent * Can raise grain, requiring more preparation work |
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