Questions and Answers for Varathane 1 qt. Wood Conditioner

A:  Happy to help! Rust-Oleum Varathane Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner is intended for use on softwood surfaces to help ensure an even color. Harder woods typically do not require a wood conditioner prior to staining. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Great question, Matt! Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner, Stains, and Polyurethanes can be used on pantry shelves and other surfaces that will have indirect contact with food. We would not recommend them for use on the inside of canisters or boxes that are storing loose food. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  We're happy to help, Gene. While Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner can help seal soft woods, it is not considered a food safe product. We do not recommend applying to surfaces that will make direct contact with food surfaces. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  We're happy to help. As our Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Gel Stain is an Oil-Based Stain we recommend using Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Wood Conditioner before applying the wood stain. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  Thank you for reaching out, Tati. Our Varathane Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner is designed to penetrate bare wood, ensuring even penetration and color when a wood stain is applied, it is not intended to provide any extra protection. Instead, we would recommend using Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Polyurethane as it provides superior durability to indoor wooden surfaces. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-qt-Clear-Satin-Water-Based-Interior-Polyurethane-200241H/100169146 -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  The Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner doesn't actually have a premium or a non-premium version, JD! You can use this wood conditioner for your staining needs. We hope this helps! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 1

A:  Happy to help! This is a listing for Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Wood Conditioner and is not recommended for use with water-based stains. Instead, we recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Wood Conditioner. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-qt-Classic-Water-Based-Pre-Stain-Wood-Conditioner-2-Pack-340226/305627166 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Happy to help, Andy. Varathane Wood Conditioner should be applied across the grain until the wood is saturated on top. Wipe the excess wood conditioner off in the direction of the wood grain. Do not let the conditioner dry before wiping excess. Allow the conditioner to penetrate for 30 minutes before staining. If the conditioner was allowed to dry before the excess was wiped off, simply lightly sand the surface and apply the stain, do not apply additional Wood Conditioner. If you have additional questions, give us a call at 800-901-0411. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 6