Wood Stain - Water Based
Best interior wood stain for DIYers tackling challenging furniture projects.
Discover the superior quality of General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain, an advanced interior stain crafted for exceptional results. Its rich, heavy-bodied formula provides extended open time, offering excellent control for achieving even color depth on challenging woods like maple and pine. This user-friendly stain enhances natural wood beauty and cleans up easily with soap and water. Perfect for furniture, millwork, and cabinetry, it delivers a beautiful, durable finish without harsh chemicals or toxic vapors, making it a practical and reliable choice for your projects.
$25.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
14
/ 308
#14 in Furniture Cleaners & Polish
Price vs Category Average
-8%
Below average
Type
Water based pigmented wood stain
/ Water based pigmented wood stain
Who it's for
- DIYers working in small or poorly ventilated indoor spaces
- Beginners wanting an easy, mess-free cleanup process
- Busy crafters needing to finish projects in a single day
Who should skip it
- Woodworkers seeking a smooth finish without extra prep steps
- Novices struggling with consistent application on large surface areas
- Restorers prioritizing deep, rich color penetration and high durability
Performance breakdown
Application Control
Heavy-bodied formula prevents drips and allows for precise, even color distribution.
Surface Versatility
Excels at taming blotch-prone woods like maple and pine with ease.
Cleanup Convenience
Water-based chemistry makes post-project cleanup simple with just soap and water.
Working Time
Extended open time provides a stress-free window for achieving consistent results.
Environmental Impact
Low VOC formulation avoids the harsh fumes typical of traditional oil stains.
Coverage Efficiency
Pint-sized container offers adequate coverage for smaller furniture and millwork projects.
Key Specs
Type
Water based pigmented wood stain
Color
Antique Brown
Size
Pint (16 fl oz)
Capacity
16.0 ounces
Scent
Unscented
Formulation
Water-based stain
Product Form
Liquid
Application Method
Brush, roll, pad, or spray
Features
- Rich color and heavy body
- Longer open time for better control
- Performs well on difficult woods
- Easy to use and apply
- No harsh chemicals or toxic vapors
- Easy cleanup with soap and water
- Enhances natural wood beauty
- Interior use only
What customers say
General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain is a top choice for its exceptional ease of application and beautiful results. Users consistently praise its smooth, streak-free coverage, even on difficult woods. The low odor and quick drying time are significant benefits for indoor projects, allowing for faster completion. While some find the rapid drying requires careful technique to avoid lap marks, the rich pigmentation and depth of color are highly appreciated. Despite a higher price, the quality, reliability, and professional finish deliver excellent value. This stain is trusted for its performance and ability to create durable, attractive surfaces.
Know before you buy
No, this product is specifically formulated for interior use only. It is not designed to withstand exterior elements like direct sunlight or moisture.
The thicker consistency provides a longer open time, which gives you more control when applying the stain. This is particularly helpful for preventing blotchiness on difficult-to-stain woods like maple and pine.
Cleanup is straightforward. Because it is a water-based formula, you can simply wash your brushes and tools with warm, soapy water.
Yes, this stain is versatile and can be applied using a brush, roller, pad, or spray equipment, depending on your project needs.
A 16-ounce pint of this stain typically covers between 50 and 75 square feet, depending on the porosity of the wood and your application method.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.