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How to remove paint from wood

A fully sanded side table

Overview

If your timber furniture is looking a little tired or covered in flaky paint, stripping it back can help you restore its natural beauty. Follow this step-by-step guide to remove old paint from wood and prepare your furniture for a new finish.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Start with a clean surface

    Before you begin removing the paint, it’s important to clean the furniture thoroughly. Dust and grime can mix with the paint or stripper, making the process messier than it needs to be. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface, paying extra attention to corners and crevices where dust tends to collect.
    Clean surface using a damp cloth
  2. 2

    Remove loose paint

    With your furniture clean, it’s time to tackle the flaky, loose paint. Use a paint scraper to gently lift any peeling paint from the surface. Hold the paint scraper at a slight angle—this helps avoid gouging or scratching the timber beneath. For areas where the paint is stubborn, grab a wire brush and use it to work into the grain. This step might take a bit of elbow grease, but it’s worth the effort to ensure you’ve removed as much of the old paint as possible before moving on to the next stage.
    Use paint scraper to remove peeling paint from the surface
  3. 3

    Apply paint stripper

    Paint stripper is your secret weapon for tackling stubborn paint layers. Pour the product into a bucket, and with a paintbrush, apply a generous and even coat over the painted surface. It’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully, as different products have varying application times. Most paint strippers need about 60 minutes to work their magic, but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t dry out. As the paint stripper begins to work, you’ll notice the old paint starting to bubble and lift. This is a good sign that the product is doing its job. Be patient during this step - allowing the stripper to sit for the full recommended time will make the scraping process much easier.
    Apply Paint Stripper with a paint brush
  4. 4

    Scrape away the paint

    Next, use your paint scraper to carefully remove the bubbled paint, working in the direction of the timber grain. This reduces the risk of scratching or damaging the surface. If you find areas where paint remains, don’t worry—just reapply the stripper, wait for it to work, and scrape again. Some stubborn spots might need a second or even third application, depending on how thick or old the paint is.
    Scrape away the paint from a wooden surface using a scraper 
  5. 5

    Clean the surface

    After you’ve removed all the paint, clean the surface thoroughly. Use a clean cloth soaked in warm, soapy water to wipe away any residual paint stripper. This ensures there are no chemicals left behind that could interfere with sanding or finishing later on. Take your time here, especially in areas where the paint stripper might have pooled.
    Clean the surface with a clean cloth
  6. 6

    Sand the timber

    Sanding is essential for smoothing out the timber and removing any lingering paint. Start with medium-grit sandpaper (around 120 grit) to tackle the tougher patches and level out the surface. Once the majority of the work is done, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper (240 grit) to create a smooth and even finish.

    Sanding also helps to open up the timber’s pores, which is crucial if you’re planning to apply a new finish. Pay special attention to edges and corners, as these areas are often missed but can be very visible in the final result.

    Sand the surface of a wooden cabinet using a Ryobi sander
  7. 7

    Final clean and dry

    After sanding, the timber will be covered in fine dust, so give it a final clean. Use a clean cloth soaked in warm, soapy water to wipe down the surface and remove all traces of dust and residue. Make sure to rinse and wring out the cloth regularly to keep it effective. Then allow the timber to dry completely, especially if you’re going to paint, stain, or varnish the piece.
    Wipe the surface with a cloth after sanding
  8. 8

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.