Staining a solid wood door is a great way to enhance its natural beauty and protect it from everyday wear. Whether you’re restoring an old entryway or finishing a brand-new door, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve a professional-looking finish.
🧰 Materials & Tools You'll Need
Materials:
Wood stain of your choice
Water-based polyurethane (satin finish recommended for a natural look)
120 and 180 grit sandpaper
Tack cloth
Disposable gloves
Lint-free cloth or old rags
Stir stick
Drop cloth or protective sheet
Tools:
Angled paintbrush
Small electric sander (optional but saves time)
Ladder (if staining in place)
🪵 Step-by-Step Guide to Staining a Wooden Door
1. Protect Your Workspace
Lay down a drop cloth to shield your floor from drips or spills. If possible, remove the door from its hinges and lay it flat on sawhorses.
2. Sand the Surface
Start with 120 grit sandpaper to smooth out the wood. If the door is unfinished, a light sanding will help the stain absorb evenly. Finish with 180 grit for a finer surface.
3. Clean Thoroughly
Wipe away all dust using a tack cloth. The surface should be smooth, clean, and dry before staining.
4. Apply the Stain
Stir the stain well (do not shake). Using an angled brush, apply the stain along the grain of the wood. Avoid over-brushing and watch for drips.
5. Let It Soak
Allow the stain to sit for 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the depth of color you prefer. Then use a clean rag to wipe off excess stain.
6. Check for Evenness
Check for blotchy or uneven areas. If needed, reapply a light coat and wipe again to balance the tone.
7. Add More Coats (Optional)
You can apply additional coats to deepen the color. Let each coat dry before applying the next. Remember: your polyurethane topcoat will slightly darken the final appearance.
8. Seal with Polyurethane
Stir (don’t shake) your waterborne polyurethane. Apply thin, even coats with your brush. Avoid overworking the surface to reduce air bubbles and drips.
9. Let It Dry & Sand Lightly
Let the coat dry (usually about 1 hour). Then lightly sand with 180-grit sandpaper to smooth out imperfections.
10. Apply Second (and Third) Coats
Wipe off any dust with a tack cloth, then repeat the polyurethane application process. Two to three coats are typically sufficient—especially for doors exposed to frequent use.
11. Clean Up
Once dry, clean your tools and enjoy your newly stained door!
💡 Tips:
For the best results, work in a well-ventilated area with low humidity.
Always test stain on a small hidden area first.
Lay the door flat if possible—it’s easier and minimizes drips.
