Top 10 Best Paint Stripper For Wood of 2022 – Reviews

If a person intends on painting a wood surface that’s been previously painted, then they are going to have to use a paint stripper for wood. This is especially important is the previous layers of paint are old and have begun to deteriorate, leaving a painted surface that’s bubbly, cracked or peeling. Trying to paint over these faulty paint layers can result in a paint job that’s less than professional. When choosing one of these products, however, it’s important to choose the best paint stripper for wood that’s available or else the person doing the work may end up with a brand that won’t get the job done efficiently. Which is why I’ve decided to list ten of the best paint stripper for wood brands currently available. Products designed to make short work of removing paint from wood.

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Best Paint Stripper For Wood – Top List

10. Sunnyside 658G1A Ready-Strip ADVANCED

This is an impressive all-rounder since it is capable of lifting more than just paint. Anyone looking for a multipurpose paint stripper for wood will be able to put this to good use as it can be used on lacquers, stains, varnishes, urethanes, and more. With a formula that is free-from NMP and methylene chloride, it is
safer than a lot of standard products. Although it takes an hour to get to work, the effects are great, removing up to 7 layers in one coating. It has a low odor which makes scraping the paint less of a chore.

 

9. Crown STRP Max Paint Stripper Liquid

Although this non-toxic formula comes with a bigger price tag, that’s because the reputable brand of Crown is behind it. It has been proven to make light work of paint and varnish, removing it from a variety of surfaces, especially detailed surfaces with grooves and lots of edges. These include different types of
wood, masonry, metal, and marine surfaces. It is one of the fastest working paint strippers for wood and only takes 5 minutes to get to work. The liquid formula clings to surfaces which makes it great for vertical use. It is free-from Methylene Chloride and NMP and comes with a money-back guarantee.

 

8. Sunnyside Corporation 65664 Hi-Speed Ready-Strip

Great for using on water-based, and oil-based paints, this strong formula only takes around half an hour to work saving you time and helping you get the job done faster. It can remove up to 3 layers of paint at a time and clings to vertical surfaces making it a great all-round paint remover. It doesn’t have a strong odor and is citrus scented to make the scraping bearable. At the end, it can be washed off using water and stays wet for longer which takes some of the strain out of the manual labor. Non-flammable, and a trusted brand for many, it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals like methylene chloride.

 

7. Dumond Chemicals, Inc. 1160N Peel Away 1 Heavy-Duty Paint Remover

A strong formula that has been designed to use on a variety of paint types including lead. It is water-based which takes nothing away from its effectiveness and on top of this, it also contains no VOC. Not only can it be used on wood, but also stone, brick, metal, and more which makes it great to have in your
garage for another project. There aren’t many paint strippers for wood that can remove as many layers with one coating as this, and a maximum of 30 is one of the highest you will find. It is eco-friendly which is how it manages to be low on odor.

 

6. Sunnyside Corporation 66432 Ready-Strip Paint Overspray & Spatters Remover

Sunnyside Corporation is a popular brand that has a variety of products in home DIY. Although this low-odor paint stripper for wood is better for splats and stains that occur after painting, it would make a handy product to have around when you have repainted. There are no harsh chemicals to be found in this water-based formula and is ideal for use on indoor and outdoor woods, as well as concrete, stone, brick, plaster, and more. Non-flammable, and considered one of the safer products around, it is ideal for a bit of cleanup that comes at an affordable price.

 

5. D Super Remover Paint Stripper (Gallon – 128oz)

One of the better paint strippers for reducing the time you spend scraping to reveal the wood, D Super Remover manages to be strong without the use of NMP, methylene chloride or highly toxic chemicals. Gentle on antiques and other wood finishes, you can use water to clean it off and it won’t take long to get
started. Many people report that within 15 minutes they can see the formula stripping the paint and it works on up to 5 layers at a time. Highly effective on most paint types, it comes from a brand with over 125 years of knowledge.

 

4. Goo Gone Latex Paint Cleaner

One of the best paint strippers for spills, when repainting wood gets messy, this is ideal for use on wooden and laminate floors. Any drips can be cleaned within a few minutes whether they are wet or dry so if you can’t stand the sight of blemishes, this is a great product to try and clean the area. It works on
latex, acrylic, and enamel paint and only requires a cloth or paper towel to apply. With a little elbow grease, this product will take away the need to use a heavy-duty paint stripper for wood on small imperfections.

 

3. Sunnyside Corporation 68932 Ready-Strip Graffiti Remover

This is the spray version of their popular paint stripper is designed for use on graffiti but is ideal for use on wood. It is water-based and has a formula that is stronger to remove spray paint, lacquer, oil-based paint, and varnish. Non-flammable and biodegradable it is great for getting out small blemishes and the likes of lipstick, ink, crayon, magic marker, and beyond. It is perfect for using on an outdoor fence where you might find graffiti but the variety of uses and surfaces that it works on makes it a popular product for many homes.

 

2. Dumond Chemicals, Inc. 3332 Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover

Even though this formula does not include Methylene Chloride, and is non-carcinogenic, it is a potent formula that works on a multitude of surfaces. They list wood as the first surface so that it is covered but itis also good to store for another day as it can be used on brick, concrete, plaster, stone, glass, plastic,
metal, fiberglass, and more. We like the fact that it is biodegradable and plant-based although this does mean it needs to be left for 3 to 24 hours. This is longer than most but the effects are the same. Water-based and safe to use, it is great for using on paints that are oil-based, water-based, and acrylics.

 

1. Citristrip QCSG801 Paint & Varnish Stripping Gel

For a paint stripper for wood that is great value, look no further. It is about as multipurpose as you could hope for as it is designed to be used on a multitude of surfaces including wood, metal, and masonry surfaces. In terms of what it can remove, the formula lifts oil-based paint and dried latex so you can apply a new finish. Not only that, but it can also remove varnish, and strips multiple layers with one coat. With no harsh fumes and a pleasant citrus scent, it isn’t going to take over your house. Since it contains no methylene chloride and is non-caustic and a favorite for many experts and DIY enthusiasts since it can
stay active for up to 24 hours at a time.

 

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Paint Stripper For Wood Guide

There is something about the antiqued look of peeling paint that can be charming, but also damaging to the material. This makes it necessary to strip the paint so you can protect what’s underneath.

The odd patch of peeling isn’t so strenuous to strip but still requires a quality product to get the job done effectively. The bigger jobs require something a little stronger. Whatever your job entails, and whatever the finish is underneath the paint, the following guide will help you choose the right paint stripper.

Types Of Paint Stripper

Solvent

This is popular because it can be put to more uses than a lot of the other types of paint strippers. The chemical-filled formula works to separate the paint from the material below. They can be used on wood and metal surfaces, working on oil and water-based paints effectively. These products often have a strong fume, due to the VOC (volatile organic compound) content. Always wear a mask when using a paint stripper, regardless of the type you use.

Caustic

Less versatile but still popular, this paint stripper work with the use of lye to turn paint into soap which is then easy to remove. You shouldn’t use caustic paint stripper over epoxy but it works well against oil-based paint on a concrete surface.

NMP

Short for N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, this is an alternative to methylene chloride as in some quarters it is considered to be safer but there is a debated topic.

Biochemical

Considered to be a more natural approach because many of the ingredients are sourced from plants, they can still be an irritant and some brands even use NMP as part of the formula.

Zero-VOC

These are often pricier because of their alternative ingredients to the likes of VOC and NMP and other hazardous chemicals but can be less effective and still carry their own irritants.

Paint Stripper Safety

Because of the chemicals in paint strippers, they come with warnings and health guidelines you should adhere to. Read the safety instructions thoroughly before you use them and remember the following.

  • Use chemical resistant gloves to protect your hands at all times – regular kitchen gloves will not give you enough protection so invest in a sturdy pair before you use paint stripper.
  • Wear Goggles – various irritants can cause lasting damage so a pair of goggles is essential no matter what type of product you use.
  • Protective clothing – a long sleeve t-shirt might not be enough, do your research on the particular type of product you are using to make sure you are fully protected.
  • Ventilation – If you are working indoors then always make sure there is adequate airflow at all times, this includes before and after the work is finished.
  • Wear a mask – Inhalation of the fumes can be incredibly hazardous so make sure you protect your lungs properly
  • Avoid Flames – Some formulas are more flammable than others but it is always best to stay away from flames or sparks

What To Look For In A Paint Stripper For Wood

Multi-Surface Paint Stripper

Because you don’t know what surface you are going to have to work on next, a general paint stripper that can be applied to multiple surfaces is always a good idea. Check that it works on wood first, then see if you can find one with the added benefit of removing paint on different surfaces.

Works Fast

If time is of the essence, you can find a paint stripper than dries in a matter of minutes. More important is the safety of those in your home so make sure you know what chemicals it contains so you can stay safe.

Strips Multiple Paint Types

Because oil and water-based paint react differently depending on the product, it can be useful to find a paint stripper that works on different types of paint. Some claim to work against any paint which can make things easy.

Avoid Methylene Chloride

Where possible – try to find a paint stripper for wood that does not contain this hazardous ingredient. It might be challenging since it is common so if you do end up buying a product that lists it as an ingredient, make sure you know how to apply it safely.

Test Old Paint For Lead

If you are working on a home built before 1978 then it is recommended that you test the paint for lead before working on it. These tests can be purchased from homeware stores and do not cost a lot of money.

Other Things To Remember

Because paint stripper can be made from a potent forulma, you should always make sure the surrounding area is protected. Use a chemical resistant cover to protect the floor and any nearby furniture.

Work outdoors if possible. If you are stripping paint from furniture, take it outside to ensure you get the most ventilation possible.

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