26 best stains for cedar we tested in 2023

• BEST OVERALL: STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector

• BEST FOR FURNITURE: Furniture Clinic Wood Stain | Non-Toxic Wood Stain for Indoor & Outdoor Wood

• BEST SEMI-TRANSPARENT: #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding - 1 Gallon (Cedar)

1. BEST OVERALL:  STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector

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When it comes to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of wood grain, the STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector is our top pick.

Key Features:

• Wood Deck Protector: This genuine oil-based semi-transparent stain and sealer are specifically designed to protect and enhance the beauty of wood grain. Whether you have a wooden deck, furniture, or other wooden structures, this product is ideal for preserving their aesthetics.

• Compatibility: The Storm Protector is compatible with a wide range of wood species, including Redwood, Cedar, Pine, Douglas Fir, Spruce, Cypress, Mahogany, pressure-treated wood, and more. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for households with various wood surfaces.

• Deep Penetration: Unlike some surface-level treatments, this stain and sealer penetrate deeply into the wood, providing enhanced protection against the elements. It forms a robust barrier that shields your wood from water, preventing moisture-related damage.

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Why Our Editors Suggest This Item:

The STORM SYSTEM Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer & Stain Protector is the best overall choice for wood protection and enhancement. Its oil-based formula ensures thorough penetration into the wood, offering long-lasting safeguarding against Mother Nature's elements. Whether you have a deck, wooden furniture, or any other wood-based structure, this product is compatible with a wide range of wood species, making it a versatile solution for homeowners. It's time to invest in the preservation and beautification of your wooden assets with this exceptional stain and sealer.

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2. BEST FOR FURNITURE: Furniture Clinic Wood Stain | Non-Toxic Wood Stain for Indoor & Outdoor Wood

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Key Features:

• Effective On All Surfaces: This quick-drying wood stain is suitable for a wide range of wood surfaces, making it a versatile solution for your indoor and outdoor furniture. It provides excellent coverage and even color penetration. Plus, it's environmentally friendly as it's water-based.

• Available in 9 Colors: Furniture Clinic offers this wood finish in nine different colors and two different sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect shade to match your furniture or decorative preferences. With its ability to rejuvenate old and tired wood, it can breathe new life into your cherished pieces.

• Safe to Use: The water-based wood finish solution is not only effective but also safe for both your wood and the environment. It has a pleasant odor, is non-toxic, and is easy to apply and clean up after.

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Why Our Editors Suggest This Item:

The Furniture Clinic Wood Stain is the top choice for enhancing and protecting your indoor and outdoor wood furniture. With its compatibility across various wood surfaces, quick-drying formula, and availability in nine appealing colors, it offers versatility and customization to suit your needs. Moreover, its water-based, non-toxic nature makes it a safe and eco-friendly option for preserving the beauty of your wood furniture. Choose this wood stain to give your furniture a fresh lease on life and a beautiful, long-lasting finish.

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• Best stains for cedar fence

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3. BEST SEMI-TRANSPARENT: #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding - 1 Gallon (Cedar)

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When you're looking to enhance the natural beauty of your exterior wood while providing protection, the #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is the top choice.

Key Features:

• Allows Wood Beauty to Shine: Available in five magnificent semi-transparent deck stain colors, this product dries to flat, natural-looking surfaces that let the true beauty of your outdoor wood shine through. It enhances the wood's appearance without covering it up.

• Compatibility: This wood stain is safe to use on various wood species, including pressure-treated pine, cedar, fir, redwood, and most other softwoods. It offers protection against color fade and prevents graying. While hardwoods may require more frequent coatings for upkeep, this stain is suitable for a wide range of wood types.

• Easy Cleanup: Featuring a low VOC level of less than 50 g/L, #1 Deck Sealer not only protects your wood but also offers easy cleanup with soap and water. It's a more environmentally friendly option while delivering excellent results.

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Why Our Editors Suggest This Item:

The #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is the go-to choice for those seeking to showcase the natural allure of their exterior wood surfaces. With a variety of color options and the ability to protect against fading and graying, it offers versatility and longevity. Moreover, its easy cleanup process and low VOC content make it a responsible choice for both your wood and the environment. Choose this wood stain to maintain the authentic beauty of your outdoor wood while ensuring lasting protection.

Good news for you if you keep reading until now!

I want to share with you my top tips for staining. I love DIY projects, and I did appreciate that I purchased this paint sprayer that gave me a lot of help. I completed my work much more quickly. I think you should also give it a thought. Plus, if you want to know more about getting the most suitable sprayer, look no further than this review. 

OTHER CHOICES

• BEST OIL-BASED:  Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood

• BEST STAIN & SEALER:  Thompsons WaterSeal TH.A21711-16 Advanced Natural Wood Protector

• BEST FOR OUTDOOR: Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding

Choosing the right cedar stain involves considering several key factors to ensure the perfect finish for your wood surfaces. Here's a streamlined guide with essential headings:

1. Stain Type:

The first decision is the type of stain that suits your needs:

2. Transparency:

• Transparent Stains: Highlight the wood's natural grain but offer limited UV protection.
• Semi-Transparent Stains: Balance color enhancement with UV defense while maintaining wood texture.
• Solid Stains: Provide robust UV protection and cover the wood's grain.

3. Base Formulation:

Select the stain base that aligns with your preferences:

4. Color Options:

Explore various stain colors to find the one that complements your project:

5. Protection and Maintenance:

Evaluate the stain's protective qualities and long-term maintenance requirements:

By focusing on these five key areas, you can confidently purchase the best cedar stain for your project, achieving both the desired appearance and lasting protection for your cedar wood surfaces.