

Whether this is a big or small project will depend on where your water stain is. The only way to properly do that is by sanding back the surface of the wood, says Mann. These remedies can have different results depending on the type of wood and its finish.ĭark water stains occur over time and take sanding to remove.ĭark water stains are more difficult to remove because there are two steps: you must remove the water, and also clear away mold that has grown within the wood.

Quick tip: Always spot-test your water stain remedy in an inconspicuous spot. Odorless mineral spirits or acetone can also be used to thin the top layer of varnish and remove the stain, but since they're not specifically designed for this purpose they may leave blemishes, says Mann. If it's still there, try a ring remover solution. Leave it on for 6 to 8 hours, and then wipe away to see if the stain is gone. If home remedies haven't worked, it's time to reach for wood-specific products, says Mann. Then, go over the towel with an iron, making sure the iron never comes into direct contact with the wood. If that doesn't work, lay a kitchen towel over the stain. Point it at the stain until the water evaporates. Start by using a hair dryer on a hot setting. However, heat can also warp wood, so proceed with caution when trying these methods, says Mann. New stains can sometimes be removed by applying heat, which causes the water to evaporate. Since these are deeper within the wood, they're more difficult to remove, says Mann. These stains, which appear deep brown or black, happen when water seeps into the wood, then begins to grow mold. Dark water stains: If light stains aren't treated, they'll eventually develop into dark water stains on wood.These are newer stains, where the water has only affected the finish of the wood or the surface layer, says Mann. Light water stains: Light water stains appear white or light-colored, and may have a cloudy appearance."The difference between light and dark stains is the length of time the water has been on the wood and therefore how far it has penetrated," says Laurence Mann, director of Wood Finishes Direct.
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But generally, you can get a sense how to approach removal by determining whether you have a light or dark water stain.

Light water stains appear cloudy or light compared to the wood, whereas dark ones appear almost black.
