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Oil finishes are frequently utilized on wood furniture and kitchen items. Oil finishes, in general, are ecologically friendly, food-safe, and non-toxic. They also have a more textured grain pattern than many alternatives and are easier to repair. Because oils have been used as wood finishings for thousands of years, oil finishes are considered to be the most traditional type of finish. Oil finishes are a popular way to protect the wood, but they can be difficult to understand. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. We have compiled a list of the 10 oils for finishing wood and included reviews from real consumers who have used these products in their homes.
Summary of The Top 10 Oils For Finishing Wood
What Are The Best Oil Finish for Wood Made Of?
Here are some of the components of the best oil finish for wood made of:
1. Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is obtained from the seeds of flax, which has been used for almost two thousand years to produce linoleum and oil paints. It’s a natural product that is considered eco-friendly and non-toxic. People have been using its wood finishing properties for thousands of years because it helps protect with durability while improving shine and luster.
Linseed oil is sold in three different forms: raw, boiled, and polymerized. Raw linseed oil has not undergone any heating process or purification to achieve its final consistency; it’s just pure liquid with naturally occurring impurities left intact. Boiled linseed oil undergoes a two-step process that heats up the oil and then cools it down to solidify. The polymerized version has gone through a purification process that removes the natural impurities from the oil but also leaves behind a hardened substance that can cause buildup or become gummy when mixed with other ingredients during use.
Raw linseed oil is considered by many as being the best out of all three linseed oils because it retains more of the natural benefits and has a shorter drying time. Boiled oil takes months to dry while raw oil dries in just one week, but if you want something that is ready for use sooner than boiled may be your best option. Polymerized will provide maximum protection against wood rot or insect infestation so it’s the best choice for outdoor projects or applications that will be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
2. Tung Oil
Tung oil is pressed from nuts of the tung tree (Aleurites fordii) which are native to China but are now cultivated in other regions including India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Compared with linseed oil it has a slower drying time—around 15 days or so—but some people prefer this because they don’t have to worry about applying a finish before going to bed and waking up with dust on their surface. Tung oil also provides a more natural, matte appearance that is less shiny than many other finishes.
Tung oil can be applied by itself or as the base for another type of coating such as varnish, lacquer, epoxy resin, etc
Raw or 100 percent pure tung oil is just as difficult to come by as linseed oil. Many artisans utilize boiled or polymerized tung oil, and it’s not unusual for producers to mislabel items as tung oil when they aren’t. If you’re looking for a genuine tung oil finish, Real Milk Paint has it.
3. Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a petroleum by-product that has gone through the purification process and been filtered to remove any impurities. It’s often found in laxatives because it lubricates and coats the digestive system but also in hundreds of other products like baby wipes, lotions, ointments, etc., which makes it readily available for purchase.
It’s considered to be an eco-friendly product because it is made from a renewable resource, but some people are wary of using petroleum products for safety reasons. This oil provides the same type of protection as other types—it seals out moisture and protects the wood against rot or insect infestation while also adding luster—but many critics argue that it doesn’t dry, which means it can attract dirt and dust.
Mineral oil has been used for hundreds of years to preserve wood because it’s affordable, readily available, easy to apply (so long as you don’t mind the fact that it never really dries), and brings out a beautiful color on the surface.
4. Walnut Oil
Walnut oil is pressed from the seeds of walnuts that are grown in many regions around the world, including North America and Europe. It’s most popularly used for cooking but also has a number of applications when it comes to wood finishing.
Compared with other types of oils, walnut oil takes longer to dry—upwards of about two weeks—which means you need to wait before applying a second coat or varnish. It also provides the same level of protection that other types do, meaning it’s resistant to rot and insect infestation while adding luster to your project.
Walnut oil has been used for hundreds of years because not only is it readily available but several civilizations have also deemed it a superior wood finish. However, there are several credible sources that suggest walnut oil isn’t the best choice when dealing with exterior applications because it will absorb into your project and leave behind an oily residue or film that can become grimy over time.
5. Danish Oil
While danish oil is a popular wood finishing in Denmark, it does not have a precise definition. The term danish oil can refer to a variety of substances, much like mineral oil. In fact, the confusion surrounding danish oil is far greater. The phrase “Danish Oil” is basically a catch-all for any oil-based wood finish, regardless of origin.
Danish Oil is a blend or combination of oils and thinners that may include tung oil, linseed oil (flaxseed), soybean oil, safflower oil, and mineral spirits—it’s not unusual for it to also contain waxes and other additives.
RELATED: 5 Best Wood Finishing Oils In 2021: Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Top 10 Oils For Finishing Wood on Amazon
1. SUNNYSIDE CORPORATION Boiled Linseed Oil
- Penetrates and protects wood creating a quality finish for wood furniture and antiques
- Enhances natural wood tones and grain patterns of wood
- Extends and fortifies oil-based paints and coatings
- Apply to unfinished wood only
- Fast drying, usually within 12-18 hours depending on conditions
Linseed oil is a traditional, unadorned wood oil that brings out the grain while staying true to the wood’s natural hue.
Boiled Linseed Oil is most commonly used in wood furniture and cabinets because it can be applied by hand rather than with a machine or sprayer—it’s also the most popular oil finish on Amazon. Linseed oil that has been boiled has a shorter drying period than untreated linseed oil. For a smooth, level finish, Sunnyside takes 12 to 18 hours to dry and is resistant to water. It prevents chalking by repelling water. It’s safe to use on most hardwood furniture finishes and antiques.
Pros
- 100% pure and made from boiled linseed oil
- Dries fast
- Repels elements
- Makes finishes stronger
- Does not change color
Cons
- Has a strong smell while applying and drying
- Does not provide UV protection
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2. Watco Danish Oil – Perfect on Tight Grained Woods
- Ideal for use on a variety of indoor wood surfaces including bare, stripped or sanded; not recommended for floors
- Oil-based formula of blended oil & varnish penetrates deeply into wood pores for ultimate protection
- Dries to the touch in as little as 6 hours and covers up to 170 sq ft
- Easy application and protects against spills, abrasion, chipping and peeling; many projects can be completed in less than an hour
- Creates rich, warm glow that enhances the natural look and feel of the wood
The name “Danish Oil” is a misnomer, as it’s actually for wood with a varnish additive. It combines the look of genuine oil with the protection of varnish. The Walnut hue gives the wood a deep, rich tone. It’s simple to use and penetrates deeply into the surface for a stunning finish. You may safely apply it to sand, bare, or unfinished wood.
It’s ideal for tight-grained woods and surfaces with unique grains because it can delve deeply without hiding the patterns. It isn’t completely maintenance-free since it does not entirely seal the wood. To keep the project from drying out, you’ll need to reapply it on a regular basis.
Pros
- Beautiful finish
- Accentuates the natural grain
- Gives more protection to finish
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Does not always protect the wood from UV rays
- Has an oily residue that needs to be cleaned after
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3. Watco Teak Oil Finish– Good Choice for Dense Woods Such as Teak
- Provides interior or exterior one-step protection and color for dense woods such as teak, rosewood and mahogany
- Provides superior color and finish in one easy application
- Dries enough for light use in 8-10 hours and covers up between 160-190 sq. ft. per quart
- Provides outstanding UV and moisture resistance, and great protection for marine use above the water line
- Creates a rich, warm glow of a hand-rubbed finish
Watco Teak Oil Finish is safe for use on wood surfaces that are unfinished, bare, or sanded to a smooth finish. It’s ideal for use on teak, cedar, mahogany, and other exotic wood species that have a natural oil content. It penetrates deeply into the surface and provides a smooth, level finish that is buildable.
The fact that it dries in only eight hours makes it perfect for last-minute projects. It’s resistant to water and UV radiation. It’s non-toxic, so it’s safe to use around children and pets.
The one downside is that Watco’s Teak Oil Finish can leave the surface somewhat matte in appearance if you don’t apply several coats. It may also cause some slight spotting when applied over an already dark stain or varnish on teak wood.
Pros
- Makes wood look natural
- Can be used on exterior projects
- Does not require sanding or stripping of the previous finish
- Makes wood look new again
- Easy to apply
- Does not leave any greasy residue
Cons
- Over time, may cause the wood to look matte and less shiny
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4. Osmo – Polyx– Perfect Natural Oil for Wooden Floors
- Extremely durable and hardwearing – will not crack, flake or peel
- Resistant to water, dirt, and common household spills
- Microporous and molecularly bonds with the wood fibres
- Easily applied with a brush, roller, buffing pad, or cloth
- Can be spot repaired and/or renewed with no sanding required
Osmo’s Polyx is a blend of several oils and waxes. It contains sunflower, thistle, and soybean oil as well as both Carnauba and Candelilla wax. This product uses a simple mineral spirit as a solvent. It has a lesser stench than other, similar products. It’s easy to apply and the coat will last for years if properly maintained.
Although it’s ideal for larger rooms, such as floors and windows, it’s a little pricey. This isn’t the best option if you’re on a budget. However, this is a good option if you want something that will last for several years. It’s ideal for conditioning hardwood flooring indoors to avoid harm from drying out.
Pros
- Minimal VOC emissions
- Perfect for wooden floors
- Great for sealing interior wood surfaces
- Protects against moisture and UV rays
- Ideal for wooden floors with sealants or waxes
Cons
- Is very expensive
- Does not work well on raw pinewood surfaces
- Requires multiple coats for the best results.
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5. Formbys Low Gloss Tung Oil Finish
This oil is going to feel very much like the natural oils in wood grains rather than something man-made or unnatural. It’s also going to be very forgiving if you mess up as well since it does not dry out quickly so you can clean up spills easily.
There are some downsides to consider before choosing this product. It does have a strong smell, so you’ll want to apply it in a well-ventilated area and use gloves when applying the oil. This is going to be more expensive than many of its competitors on the market as well, especially considering that it’s not a stain and you will need to apply multiple coats.
Pros
- Safe for use around children and pets
- Easy application with no greasy residue left behind
- Has a low sheen that’s a natural feeling on wood surfaces
- Ideal for barely finished woods, including raw pine.
Cons
- It has a strong smell when applied.
- It requires the application of several coats to achieve its best results.
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6. CabotStain Australian Timber Oil– Nice For Outdoor Wood Furniture and Hardwood
- 3-way oil protection for superior penetration
- Ideal for decks, siding, railings, and outdoor furniture
- Available in 5 wood toned colors
- Not Intended for interior surfaces
- Water Reducible Formula
CabotStain Australian Timber Oil is a blend of different oils, including tung oil and linseed oil. This product has a low odor, making it ideal for use in areas where you don’t want the smell of strong chemicals to overpower your space. It’s also resistant to mildew and water damage along with heat, so it will last for years if well cared for. This oil is very easy to apply and remove using a rag or cloth, so you can quickly touch up any areas that need attention in between regular cleanings of your wood surfaces.
Pros
- Non-toxic and safe for use around children
- The low odor that won’t overpower your space
- Water-resistant, heat resistant, and mildew resistant
- Very easy to apply and remove.
Cons
- This product does not contain any sealants, so it’s only going to be effective for short-term uses.
7. Minwax Tung Oil Finish – Good Option for Reconditioning
- Minwax Antique Oil Finish may be used over finished and unfinished wood
- Antique Oil Finish is recommended for interior wood surfaces such as cabinets, tables, paneling, doors and trim
- Works by penetrating the wood
- May be used over wood stained with Minwax Wood Finish, or other Minwax wood stains, or applied directly to bare wood to enhance its beauty
- Antique oil finish
Minwax Tung Oil is one of the Best Oil Finishes for Wood on the market. It has a blend of linseed oil, alkyd resins, and other ingredients to create an easy-to-apply product with no strong chemical odor or difficult cleanup process. Use it on bare wood surfaces as well as items that have been previously stained or varnished. This oil is great for reconditioning and refinishing items that are already finished, such as antiques or other pieces with more delicate finishes.
Pros
- Ideal for refurbishing wood surfaces that have been previously stained or varnished
- Minwax Tung Oil has a low odor that won’t overpower your space
- This oil is resistant to water, mildew, and heat damage.
- It’s very easy to apply with no strong chemical odor or difficult clean-up process.
Cons
- Minwax Tung Oil can be applied in thin coats that won’t stand up well over time.
- It may need frequent reapplication if you want the best possible results.
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8. Tried and True – Good for Interior Use
- Tried & True Danish Oil is an all-purpose, 100% natural and food safe traditional oil finish. Pure high-grade, fast drying linseed oil without any drying aids (aka heavy metal salts).
- Proprietary heat treating process turns raw flax oil into Danish Oil. 100% renewable, safe for skin & food contact. No need for PPE or ventilation while using. Petrochemical Free, Heavy Metal Free.
- Gains a patina as it ages. Truest Danish Oil formula, as they would have been made 125 years ago! Great for users new to natural oil finishing or those that want a classic simple hand rubbed finish. Use on raw iron, earthen floors or any other project that traditionally calls for pure linseed oil.
- Perfect finish for live edges. Excellent primer for other Tried & True products. This product can be applied over other natural oil finishes and penetrating stains. Can also be a base coat grain enhancer prior to pouring epoxy.
- Tried & True products have infinite repairability and will last longer than a lifetime when properly maintained. No yellow plastic flakes as they age! These are 100% solids (no fillers, no solvents) so a little bit goes a very long way.
Pure linseed oil that has been polymerized is known as Danish oil. It’s cost-effective and gives your wood a nice sheen. While it penetrates better than cooked linseed, it may take longer to finish.
Tried and True is a blend of oils including linseed oil, tung oil, and other ingredients. This product offers remarkable water resistance as well as heat protection that’s ideal for use in areas where you don’t want to worry about spills or high temperatures affecting the wood surface. It’s also great for items that will come into contact with food or drink. Apply this oil to bare wood surfaces as well as finished pieces, such as antiques and other delicate furniture finishes.
Pros
- Tried and True is cost-effective yet still gives your wood a nice sheen
- It penetrates better than cooked linseed
- This oil is resistant to water and heat damage
- It can be used on interior wood surfaces as well as items that will come into contact with food or drink.
- Best for indoor spaces
- No toxic smell
Cons
- Tried and True may take longer to dry than other linseed oil products on the market today.
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9. OSMO TopOil
- DIN and EN rated for direct contact with food
- Ideal for countertops, tabletops, chopping boards, ect.
- Very durable and hardwearing – water and chemical resistant
- Resistant to common liquid spillages such as water, juice, tea, cola and wine
- No sanding necessary for spot repairs or future applications
OSMO TopOil is another great oil-based product that’s easy to apply. It has a low and pleasant odor, won’t leave your wood looking too glossy or shiny, and penetrates wood well. This oil is resistant to water, mildew, and heat damage while being easy to clean up after the job is done. It’s also great for many projects including furniture, cabinets, floors, and outdoor projects. The product comes in a convenient aerosol spray can for quick application of the oil on any surface or project.
Pros
- OSMO TopOil has a low odor and won’t leave your wood looking too glossy or shiny.
- This oil penetrates wood well and can be used on many projects including furniture, cabinets, floors, and outdoor projects.
- The aerosol spray can make it easy to apply.
- This oil is resistant to water, mildew, and heat damage.
Cons
- Some customers may find the aerosol can difficult to use.
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10. Watco Tung
- Ideal for staining and protecting wood surfaces such as cutting/butcher blocks, salad bowls, counters, utensils and more
- Specially formulated nontoxic stain works in just one application and is FDA compliant for food contact
- Dries to the touch in 2 hours, fully cured in 72 hours
- Rich stain enhances wood grain for a lustrous color and sheen
- Easy to apply oil is more durable than traditional butcher block oils for a longer lasting protection
Watco Tung Oil is another great oil-based product that’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces. It penetrates wood well, offering remarkable water resistance and heat protection while remaining easy to clean up after the job is done. This oil penetrates wood well and can be used on many projects including furniture, cabinets, floors, and outdoor projects.
Pros
- Watco Tung Oil offers great results in both indoor/outdoor spaces
- It penetrates wood well and can be used on many projects including furniture, cabinets, floors, and outdoor projects.
- This oil is resistant to water, mildew, and heat damage.
- This product comes in a convenient aerosol spray can for quick application of the oil on any surface or project.
- It penetrates wood well and is resistant to water, mildew, and heat damage.
Cons
- Some customers may find the aerosol can difficult to use.
RELATED: Wood Finish Mineral Oil: The 3 Best & How To Apply Them
Buyer’s Guide-What To Consider When Choosing Best Oil Finish for Wood
Price of the oil
The message is still, “Don’t buy a product that you can’t afford.” You should be aware that there are less expensive varnishes available with the same level of protective properties. As a result, don’t put yourself in a financial position trying to obtain pricey goods.
Easy of Applying
It is important that the oil be easy to apply. If it’s too thick, you risk not being able to get an even coating on your project. Also, if you have a big job ahead of you, this can be really frustrating and time-consuming trying to mix up more products for each coat needed. You should consider how long each application takes as well. If you have a large job, it may be better to go for an oil that dries quickly and doesn’t require multiple applications. This will save you time on big projects or those with more than one coat of varnish needed.
Durability
While all products on this list are durable, some last longer than others. If you need something that will stick around on your project for a long time, these products are the ones to go with. However, if you plan on moving after some time or don’t mind redoing some of your work every few years, then durability may not be at the forefront of your list.
Lifespan
This is a feature that works with durability. The longer the lifespan of your product, the more expensive it’s going to be. You should determine if you want something for yourself or plan on selling it at some point in the future. If this is not an issue for you and the price isn’t either, then longevity can be considered when making a purchase.
Ease of Cleaning
This is especially important if you’re using oil on furniture. When it comes to cleaning your product, remember that there are many different types of oils and they don’t all dissolve the same way with certain solvents or water. You want something that will clean up easily afterward but not too easy as dirt and dust can accumulate and damage your project.
Drying Time
You want something that is going to dry quickly after application. If you have a large project, this can be really beneficial as it will speed up the process and save you time. However, if your product doesn’t dry clear or takes too long to do so, then there’s no point in purchasing an oil with these properties.
Types of Wood Varnishes
Exterior Varnish. Exterior varnishes are best suited for use on outside surfaces. Even so, most exterior varnishes can be used on the inside of a building.
Acrylic Varnish. They are non-toxic, have faster-drying properties and resistance against elements such as UV rays, and are environmentally friendly. They’re water-based and safe for the environment.
Yacht or Spar Varnish. The clear coat on this hardwood floor adds a protective, glossy layer that may be easily cleaned with soapy water. This wood is resistant to humidity and stains. It’s often chosen as exterior paint for boats and other above-waterline structures because it is waterproof and prevents water from coming into touch with the wood.
Top 10 Best Oil Finish for Wood: FAQs
Is it Possible to Repaint Oil-Sealed Wood?
Oil is sometimes used as a furniture polish. It’s not the same thing as a sealer, though it does greatly improve wood’s resistance to moisture. Because every sort of oil will naturally repel water to some degree, it will function as a sealer in some circumstances. Oil impregnation was once used to preserve the life of a wooden boat.
How much should I pay for wood oil?
More expensive oils, such as coconut oil and jojoba oil, are blends of different types of oil. Some of the products on our list fall into this category.
Where can I buy wood oil?
Oil finishes for wood are available in department stores and online, as well as through other retailers.
What is the cheapest wood oil?
Minwax Tung Oil Finish, which costs just $15 for a pint on Amazon .com.
Where can I buy cheap wood oil?
You’ll find several products from the brands listed above on Amazon for under $15.
How to apply oil?
You can apply the wood oil using a brush, cloth, or rag. Make sure to cover the entire surface and let it sit for around 30 minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth.
Conclusion
In case you want your wooden construction to have a lovely finish, you’ll need the finest varnish for wood. There are many varnishes on the market these days, but thankfully we’ve only chosen the very best ones that will bring out the beauty in your work.
Furthermore, we’ve put up a buyer’s guide to assist you with decision-making on several of the aspects you’ll have to consider before purchasing varnish. We hope that this article will be useful in your search for the best varnish. Please leave a comment regarding whether or not you agree with the goods. Have fun while shopping.
Reference: Wikipedia
