Stain Color Finder

Wood Stains

Wood Stain Color Finder

Find the perfect stain for your project. Filter by brand, color family, or wood type. Compare similar colors across brands.




Showing all stains

Top Stain Brands of 2025

Editor’s Choice
General Finishes

General Finishes

Gel Stain
Best for pine, maple & vertical surfaces. No blotching.

Most Popular
Minwax

Minwax

Penetrating Stain
Widest color selection. Available everywhere.

Fast Dry
Varathane

Varathane

Quick-Dry Stain
1-hour dry time. Great for quick projects.

All-in-One
Watco

Watco Danish Oil

Oil Finish
Stain + finish in one. Beautiful hand-rubbed look.

Stain Selection Tips

Match Stain to Wood

Oak takes any stain well. Pine blotches—use gel stain or pre-stain conditioner. Maple needs extra prep for even color.

Oil vs Water-Based

Oil-based: deeper color, 8-24hr dry. Water-based: 1-2hr dry, easy cleanup, may raise grain.

Test First

Same stain looks different on each wood species. Always test on scrap before your project.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Pre-stain conditioner on softwoods — Pine and fir will blotch without it.
  • Sand to 150-180 grit — Finer grits prevent stain absorption.
  • Wipe off excess — Pooled stain won’t cure properly.
  • Multiple coats = darker — Let each coat dry before adding another.
  • Stain isn’t a finish — Apply poly, lacquer, or oil after staining.

Brand Comparison

Brand Type Dry Time Best For
Minwax Oil penetrating 8 hrs General use, wide availability
Varathane Fast-dry oil 1 hr Quick projects
General Finishes Gel stain 8-12 hrs Problem woods, no blotching
Cabot Exterior 24-48 hrs Decks, outdoor furniture
Watco Danish oil 8-10 hrs All-in-one stain + finish

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