Danish Oil Removal

Removing Danish oil can be a messy and arduous task.

While this is an excellent characteristic for protecting a surface, it makes Danish oil harder to remove than other finishes. Stripping it away requires a multiple step approach before the project is suitable for a new coating.

1. Use your painter's tape to isolate the area where you need to remove the Danish oil. The stripping chemicals can damage anything they come in contact with, so be certain to protect adjacent surfaces before you begin.

2. Apply the stripper as indicated by the manufacturer's label, following the directions precisely. Most call for leaving the stripper in place for a certain amount of time. Don't rush the job by skipping this step or you will end up working much harder than you need to.

3. Use your putty knife and rags to remove as much of the Danish oil as possible after the stripper dries. The majority of it should bubble up and slide right off. Clean away the stripper residue as directed by your product, and then wipe the surface clean.

4. Sand the surface with steel wool or sanding paper to remove any remaining oil or debris. If there is a great deal left, use 60 grit to remove the bulk of it, then switch to a finer grit like 80 or 120, depending on the type of wood and finish used for your project.