Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/31/2008

Question
Hi Eileen,
I am planning on re-staining my Oak kitchen cabinets and I saw some questions about that earlier. I have heard that the cabinets would have to be completely sanded down for the stain to stick. What is your experience on this. I will most likely stain them with Minwax Mahogany stain. What do you find is the best one to use for this purpose: Wood Finish, Gel Stain or Water-Based Wood stains?
Is it necessary to use a Pre-stain conditioner? These cabinets are about 15 years old.
Thank you so much for your help.
Camilla

Answer
Hi Camilla
Nice to hear from you.
Your cabinets will need to be completely stripped with paint stripper if you are changing stain.
You cannot sand a finish off.
Sounds like you are planning on going a darker color so its best if you do just one door as a test to be sure you can get the wood a darker color. Its not always possible although a lot of oak takes a stain beautifully.
Also experiment with the stains.
Try the Minwax you mention first.
Then try a gel stain.
Do not use a water stain.
Do not use a pre stain or conditioner of any kind.
Big job so do your test.
Get back to me if needed.
Regards
Eileen