Tips and Techniques for Stripping Wood Furniture

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How to Choose the Right Stripper

Most stripping products work well on just about any type of finish. So, when you’re shopping for one, it really comes down to two factors: speed and safety. Don’t blindly accept marketing claims on the front of the bottle about how safe it is. Some ‘safe’ strippers contain chemicals that are dangerous if you touch them with bare hands or inhale the fumes. Read the back of the bottle! That’s where you’ll find information about what chemicals it contains and what safety precautions you should take.

Before you send your old furniture to the landfill, check out these inspiring upcycling furniture ideas for cabinets, chairs, sofas, and more!

Methylene Chloride

People who strip furniture for a living often choose methylene chloride stripper because it’s fast and it works. But it’s nasty stuff! It can burn your skin, it smells bad, and the fumes can cause or exacerbate health problems. Be sure to use it outside or in a well-ventilated area, cover any exposed skin, and wear a respirator and goggles. Buy the ‘paste’ or ‘semi-paste’ type; it clings to vertical surfaces and won’t run off tabletop edges.

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NMP

Less-noxious strippers like Citristrip contain a chemical called n-methylpyrrolidone (NMP). They do a great job of removing paint and varnishes but work a bit slower than methylene chloride–based strippers. They smell nice—like citrus—but that doesn’t mean the fumes are safe. Wear a respirator and eye protection and work in a well-ventilated area. Also, cover any exposed skin.

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