6 Ways To Strip Paint, Stain & Sealant From Furniture

This article contains affiliate, but not sponsored links.

Removing paint and stain from pieces is an essential part of flipping furniture. There are a number of ways you can get the job done, so it’s best you try out a few methods to find out what works best for you. I’ve made a list of the most common ways to strip paint, stain, and sealant from furniture. Keep in mind, most of these methods require access to an outside space, a mask, and gloves.

**Important: Remember, before removing any older paint or stain you should always test for the presence of lead.

SANDING

Sanding is the method I use most often, although I don’t like sanding more intricate pieces. I use my orbital sander (I like this one and this one) and start with a 120 grit, then switch to a 220 grit to smooth it out.

This is a tried and true method. It’s reliable and you know what to expect.
It’s inexpensive once you invest in a sander.

If you’re sanding veneer you can sand too far down and you won’t be able to fix it. My Flip It eCourse teaches you how to avoid doing this!
Dust will be everywhere (including on your clothes and in your hair).

CHEMICAL STRIPPER

Chemical stripper is definitely an effective method. I like to use the KwikStrip brand (I'm linking it here, but it’s actually much more affordable if you purchase it in store).

It gets the job done. If you have multiple layers of thick paint, this is the method for you.
It’s fun to scrape off - watching the paint melt off while you scrape is satisfying.

Chemical stripper stinks. Like, really stinks. You need to use it outside for safety and smell purposes.
It can be messy. The paint will peel off and you have to scrape it off and then wipe it all down to clean.
You can’t use chemical stripper when it’s cold outside, so plan accordingly.
Sometimes you’ll still have to sand (although it will be a much faster sand!).
It’s toxic, so avoid breathing it in or touching it with bare skin.

CITRISTRIP

Citristrip is another, less toxic, type of stripper. Full disclosure, I never recommend using Citristrip. But it is an option for anyone who wants to try it.

It’s definitely not as toxic as chemical stripper (but you should still use caution).
Citristrip is very easy to find in stores and online, making it a convenient choice.
It smells like oranges!

Sticky. Mess. NOT easy to clean up - you’ve been warned, I’m not a fan.
You have to use a lot for it to work.
It can only be used in certain weather like warmer climates.
Most people wrap their piece with saran wrap after applying the Citristrip. This creates more waste and extra cost.

OVEN CLEANER

Oven cleaner is another method, though it’s slightly controversial. Although it doesn’t work on paint, it’s effective when used on certain types of varnishes and stains (but you never know until you try).

When you find a surface it will work on, it will WORK and work well.
It’s really affordable.
Oven cleaner is super easy to find in stores.
It doesn’t create a huge mess, but you have to be careful with the mess you do create (see cons below).

This stuff is toxic for you and for the environment (the environment part is what makes it controversial).
It doesn’t work on paint - only certain types of varnishes and stains.
It’s hard to get rid of the runoff without impacting the environment, so try to do a ton of research before using to make your plan.

SCRAPER

Using a scraper is so ridiculously satisfying. If you like seeing instant results, this method might be for you.

Soooooo satisfying to use!!!
It’s an easy method - any skill level could master a scraper.
You can control pressure, which is more difficult in methods like sanding.
It works really well for removing thick paint or the top layer of sealant.

You’ll mostly likely still have to sand, but the sanding will be minimal and should go quickly.
It can be tedious to slowly scrape everything off.

HEAT GUN

A heat gun is another fun method, but should be used with caution. You’ll definitely want to wear a mask and do it outside.

Super cool and satisfying to watch!
You can use a heat gun in any temperature.

Fire = burn potential (for you and your furniture). Be very careful using a heat gun.
Can be smelly (like a burn smell).

So which method is best for you?

It totally depends on the piece. but always test a hidden spot first in case the method doesn’t work. I typically start with oven cleaner if there’s not paint or sanding. I adjust if the method is time consuming or ineffective.

If you’re still unsure about what method to use (or how to do it!) check out my Flip It! eCourse. I walk you through everything you could possibly need to know, from finding furniture, flipping it, selling it, and more. I show you how to clean brushes, where I find my furniture, how I treat it for potential bugs, how to fix chips, how to avoid brush strokes, how to seal, what paint to get, and how to sell.

For more DIY tips, follow me on social media!