If you’re looking for a long-lasting and elegant finish for your wood countertop, you’ve come to the right place. A good finish not only enhances the wood’s natural beauty but also provides protection against moisture and stains. However, with so many finishing options available in the market, it can be confusing to choose the right one. Here are some factors you need to consider before making a decision.
Firstly, decide whether you want a film-forming or a penetrating finish. Film-forming finishes, like varnish and lacquer, create a coat on the wood surface and offer excellent protection but may yellow over time. Penetrating finishes, like oil and wax, penetrate into the wood pores and enhance the wood grain but require regular upkeep. Secondly, consider the level of durability you need based on your usage and maintenance preference. Some finishes are more scratch-resistant and require less upkeep, while others require periodic sanding and reapplication. Lastly, look for finishes that are food-safe and environmentally friendly if you plan on using the countertop for food preparation.
Are you tired of the dull and worn-out appearance of your wood countertop? Do you want a finish that not only protects but also highlights the wood’s natural beauty? Keep reading to discover the best finishes for wood countertops and how to choose the perfect one for your needs. What are the different types of finishes available, and what are the pros and cons of each? How do you prepare the wood surface before applying the finish? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this comprehensive guide on wood countertop finishes.
10 Best Finish For Wood Countertop
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Ideal for conditioning and lubricating wood cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, and knives/meat grinders while being safe for food use.
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Ideal for providing an all-purpose, dye-free, natural, and non-toxic finish/sealer for wood and metal items that are food-safe.
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3
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The product is ideal for transforming dull countertops into genuine wood finished ones using liquid wood and gel stain.
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4
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The product is ideal for refinishing and transforming countertops with a genuine wood finish using liquid wood and gel stain.
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5
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This product is ideal for adding a stylish and functional bathroom sink to any home with its handmade glass design and included faucet and drain.
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6
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Ideal for finishing and protecting wooden surfaces, such as cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, and utensils, with a food-safe solution.
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Ideal for use as a durable and attractive tabletop or counter in homes or businesses.
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8
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This product is ideal for adding extra space to your kitchen while also incorporating a durable and stylish countertop.
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9
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Ideal for mounting support of wood shelves, decorative countertops, and mantels with a cast iron finish.
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10
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Ideal for sealing and protecting concrete, wood floors, countertops, and furniture with a clear gloss polyurethane finish.
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1. Food-Safe Wood & Countertop Conditioner
The Butcher Block Conditioner from Thirteen Chefs is a food grade mineral oil that has been lab tested to ensure that it meets food safety standards. This colorless, odorless, tasteless, and gluten-free oil is perfect for restoring and protecting cutting boards, knives, kitchen appliances, and more! It prevents cracking and drying, and keeps your kitchen tools in top condition.
The easy push-applicator cap and squeeze-bottle design of this butcher block oil makes maintenance a breeze. Simply apply generously with a rag or by hand and let it sit for 4 hours. A single bottle of mineral oil can last for years, and a Thirteen Chefs 1oz oil treatment every 3 months is all you need for a cutting board up to 18".
This 100% pure food grade mineral oil for cutting board cleaning is made in the USA. It undergoes regular safety testing and is bottled in FDA compliant facilities. You can rest assured that you are using a safe and high-quality product for your kitchen needs.
- Food grade mineral oil that meets food safety standards
- Colorless, odorless, tasteless, and gluten-free
- Restores and protects cutting boards, knives, kitchen appliances, and more
- Prevents cracking and drying
- Easy push-applicator cap and squeeze-bottle design
- A single bottle can last for years
- Made in the USA
- Regular safety testing and bottled in FDA compliant facilities
2. Pureseal All-Natural Wood Finish – Pint
The Original Wood Finish is a high-quality finishing product that provides a soft, warm, and glowing finish to any wooden surface. Unlike film finishes, it enhances the beauty and texture of the wood grain without masking it. The finish is made from 100% renewable, natural, food, and skin contact safe ingredients – just linseed oil and beeswax. It is also petrochemical-free and heavy metal-free, making it safe for use in various applications.
This wood finish is ideal for use on cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, tool handles, raised garden beds, wooden doors, and trim. It is also perfect for friction polishing turned pieces and any other application where linseed oil and beeswax would have traditionally been used. The beeswax in the finish provides excellent moisture resistance, making it suitable for use in food contact applications, baby products, or pet toys.
Another great thing about this wood finish is that it can be used as a sealant over milk paint, penetrating oil-based stains, and other natural oil finishes. The finish is easy to use, and no personal protective equipment or ventilation is required while applying it. The Tried & True products have infinite repairability and will last longer than a lifetime when adequately maintained. They do not produce yellow plastic flakes as they age, and they are 100% solids, so a little bit goes a long way.
- Made from 100% renewable, natural, food, and skin contact safe ingredients
- Provides a soft, warm, and glowing finish to any wooden surface
- Enhances the beauty and texture of the wood grain
- Petrochemical-free and heavy metal-free
- Suitable for use in food contact applications, baby products, or pet toys
- Easy to use, and no personal protective equipment or ventilation is required
- – None found
3. Gel-Stained Wood Countertop Kit – Genuine Finish
Introducing the genuine liquefied wood, a patented formula that contains over 60% recycled wood fibers by volume. This innovative product is the only paintable solution that includes real wood in its formula. It looks and feels like wood because it is wood, not a faux finish. The team behind this product has developed a way to break down wood particles to 1/5th the size of red blood cells, creating a paintable system that replicates the natural beauty of wood.
Now you can make all your doors and shutters match, regardless of what they are made of, thanks to this genuine liquefied wood. The kit includes a primer and stain that is made of more than 60% real wood, along with poly to protect the finish. It is easy to use, simply paint it, stain it, and seal it.
Not only is this genuine liquefied wood an excellent solution for your home's aesthetic needs, but it is also safe and easy to use. It is water-based, eco-friendly, low-odor, and easy to clean up. The product comes in a 64.0 fluid ounce container, providing ample coverage for your home renovation projects.
- Contains over 60% recycled wood fibers by volume
- Looks and feels like real wood
- Can make all doors and shutters match, regardless of material
- Easy to use with primer, stain, and poly included
- Water-based, eco-friendly, and low-odor
- 64.0 fluid ounce container provides ample coverage
4. Vigo Light Wood Rectangle Sink Set.
Upgrade your bathroom with this easy-to-clean and safe vessel sink from a trusted brand. The sink features a polished interior and textured exterior made of solid tempered glass, which resists stains, discoloration, and dangerous breakage. The mineral-resistant nozzle on the accompanying faucet also prevents unsanitary buildup, ensuring hygiene and longevity. Additionally, the bathroom faucet has a 1.2 gpm flow rate and is WaterSense certified by IAPMO, making it eco-friendly and water-saving. The all-in-one kit includes everything you need for easy installation, including 1 tempered glass vessel sink, 1 bathroom faucet, 1 pop-up drain without overflow, and all necessary mounting hardware and hot/cold waterlines. With dimensions of 14 1/2 in. L x 22 1/2 in. W x 4 1/2 in. H, this sink is the perfect size for most bathrooms.
The sleek and modern design of this sink will add a touch of elegance to any bathroom decor. The tempered glass vessel sink has a 1/2-inch thick glass, which is strong and durable, ensuring it will last for years to come. The polished interior and textured exterior of the sink make it easy to clean and maintain its brilliance. The faucet and pop-up drain complement the sink beautifully, and the WaterSense certification ensures that you are helping to conserve water while still enjoying a high-quality product. The all-in-one kit makes installation a breeze, and the included mounting hardware and hot/cold waterlines ensure a perfect fit. This vessel sink kit is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a stylish and eco-friendly upgrade to their bathroom.
- Easy-to-clean polished interior and textured exterior
- Safe and durable tempered glass construction
- WaterSense certified bathroom faucet for eco-friendly and water-saving use
- All-in-one kit includes everything needed for easy installation
- Sleek and modern design adds elegance to any bathroom decor
- – May not be suitable for bathrooms with limited counter space
5. Food-Safe Hemp Wood Finish, 1 Gal.
Introducing the MATTE Hemp Seed Oil, a versatile wood conditioner that provides a non-glossy matte finish. This oil is extracted from industrial hemp plants with a light nutty aroma, making it a natural and safe option for various applications.
Revive old wood finishes or finish countertops, wooden utensils, butcher blocks, cutting boards, unfinished wood furniture, over milk paint, and chalk paint with this multi-use oil. It is also food grade, making it perfect for wooden kitchen items like chopping boards and utensils.
The Hemp Oil provides a water-resistant wood finish that takes 7 to 10 days to partially cure and 15 to 30 days to fully cure. Its all-natural VOC’s and solvent-free drying oil finish make it an eco-friendly option for those who want to go green.
This naturally thin viscosity oil will penetrate well on porous surfaces, making it an effective wood conditioner that can be used for various applications.
- Provides a non-glossy matte finish
- Can be used for reviving old wood finishes, finishing countertops, wooden utensils, butcher blocks, cutting boards, unfinished wood furniture, over milk paint, and chalk paint
- Safe for food contact
- Provides a water-resistant wood finish
- All natural VOC’s and solvent-free drying oil finish
- Naturally thin viscosity oil will penetrate well on porous surfaces
6. Lovendo Woodbutcher: Solid Handmade Counter Top.
The Handcrafted Solid Natural Wood furniture is a unique and characterful addition to any home. Due to the natural variations in the wood grain, each piece of furniture is distinct and one-of-a-kind. In contrast, synthetic materials like melamine or laminate can look identical and lack personality.
Investing in this furniture is a smart choice as it is long-lasting and durable. Unlike less durable furniture, these solid wood pieces can last a lifetime, making them a one-time purchase. This not only saves money in the long run but also reduces waste.
This furniture is versatile and can blend in with any room's decor, from vintage to mid-century modern, minimalist to industrial, rustic to coastal, traditional to transitional, or a quirky blend. Solid wood furniture can fit right in, making it an excellent choice for any home.
Furthermore, solid wood furniture can be transformed with ease. Sanding, staining, and refinishing provide convenient opportunities to change the look of your furniture at some point down the line. This means that the furniture can adapt to new decor styles or personal preferences, making it a versatile and long-lasting investment.
The Solid Natural Wood used in this furniture is entirely natural and environment-friendly. As there are no chemicals used in its production, it is safe for people allergic to chemicals. By choosing this furniture, customers can feel good about their purchase and its impact on the environment.
- Unique and characterful due to natural variations in the wood grain
- Smart investment as it is long-lasting and durable
- Exceptionally versatile and can blend in with any room's decor
- Transformable with easy sanding, staining, and refinishing
- Environment-friendly and safe for people allergic to chemicals
7. Latitude 59 Premium Folding Butcher Block
Looking for a way to add some extra space to your kitchen? Look no further than this popular folding countertop! With its sleek design and easy folding mechanism, it's a great way to create more room for food prep or entertaining guests. The included steel brackets make installation a breeze, although you will need a drill and stud finder to get started. And with its durable butcher block finish, this countertop is sure to last for years to come. So why wait? Order yours today and start enjoying all the extra space and functionality it has to offer!
Upgrade your kitchen with this convenient folding countertop. Featuring a sturdy butcher block finish that's UV finished and ready to install, this countertop is perfect for adding extra workspace in your kitchen. The included steel brackets make installation a breeze, and with just a few simple steps, you can have a beautiful and functional countertop that will last for years to come. So why wait? Order yours today and start enjoying all the extra space and convenience it has to offer!
If you're in need of some extra workspace in your kitchen, this folding countertop is the perfect solution. With its durable butcher block finish and included steel brackets, it's easy to install and provides a sleek and functional surface for all your food prep needs. And thanks to its folding mechanism, it's easy to store away when not in use. So why wait? Order yours today and start enjoying all the extra space and convenience it has to offer!
- Durable butcher block finish
- Easy to install with included steel brackets
- Folding mechanism makes it easy to store when not in use
- – Requires a drill and stud finder for installation
8. Angel Oak Metal Shelf Brackets: Strong, Stylish Support.
STARBY offers heavy-duty and durable Angel Oak shelf brackets that are handcrafted from American steel. These decorative shelf brackets are designed to withstand weights of over 500 lbs per pair, making them the perfect choice for those who need heavy-duty shelf brackets that can last a lifetime. The brackets come with a wrought iron black finish that is both beautiful and durable, making them ideal for installation in damp areas.
Each pair of wall shelf brackets has undergone stringent quality inspection and many hours of development. These brackets are made in the USA to the highest standards using high-quality American steel. STARBY has a promise to its customers; if they wouldn't use the shelving brackets themselves, they won't sell them. So, you can be sure that you are getting the best product in the market.
Installation of STARBY's Angel Oak shelf brackets is easy and hassle-free. The brackets come with pre-drilled holes and all installation hardware is included, including the driver bit. The package also includes decorative matching color screw covers for a beautiful finished look.
STARBY is proud of its excellent customer service and outstanding quality. The company offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and if you don't love the Angel Oak brackets, you can simply send them back or reach out to the company, and they will do whatever it takes to make things right. The products also come with a lifetime warranty, and STARBY stands behind its products to provide you with the best countertop supports in the market.
- Made from high-quality American steel for durability
- Can withstand weights of over 500 lbs per pair
- Beautiful wrought iron black finish that is also durable
- Easy and hassle-free installation with all necessary hardware included
- Comes with decorative matching color screw covers for a beautiful finished look
- Lifetime warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee
9. Eco-Tuff Wood & Concrete Sealant, 1 Gal.
The Eco-Tuff Clear Polyurethane Coating is a top-quality sealer that is designed to protect and enhance concrete, wood, primed metal surfaces and more. This sealer is highly durable and long-lasting, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It is formulated with bio-polyurethane, which provides excellent surface resistance from scratch, hot tire pick up, abrasion, water, chemicals, and UV.
Aside from its excellent durability and performance, this concrete and wood sealer is also non-toxic and odorless, making it safe and easy to use. It can be applied using mechanical airless or HVLP sprayers, trim pads, rollers or with a high-quality brush. This sealer can provide a fine finish on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, masonry, wood, cement, and natural stone. It can also be used on cabinets, garage floors, doors, manufactured products, and tiles.
The Eco-Tuff Clear Polyurethane Coating is an excellent alternative to epoxy coatings, as it is free of off-gassing and Red List Chemicals. It has a glossy finish that can enhance the look of any surface it is applied to, and it is plant-based for an environmentally-friendly option.
- Durable and long-lasting
- Provides excellent surface resistance from scratch, hot tire pick up, abrasion, water, chemicals, and UV
- Non-toxic and odorless
- Easy to apply using various methods
- Suitable for a variety of surfaces
- An eco-friendly alternative to epoxy coatings
Best Finish For Wood Countertop FAQs
Can I use a food-safe finish on my wood countertop?
Yes, you can definitely use a food-safe finish on your wood countertop. In fact, it is highly recommended to use a food-safe finish on any surface that comes in contact with food. Food-safe finishes are designed to protect the wood from moisture and stains, while also being non-toxic and safe for human consumption. Some popular options for food-safe finishes include mineral oil, beeswax, and shellac. It is important to note that not all finishes are food-safe, so it is important to carefully read the label and do your research before applying any finish to your wood countertop. Additionally, it is recommended to reapply the food-safe finish every few months to maintain its protective properties and ensure the safety of your food preparation area.
How do I apply a finish to a wood countertop?
To apply a finish to a wood countertop, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, you need to prepare the surface by sanding it down to remove any rough spots or imperfections. Next, you need to apply a pre-stain conditioner to the wood to help it absorb the stain evenly. Once the conditioner has dried, apply the stain using a brush or rag, following the grain of the wood. Be sure to wipe off any excess stain with a clean cloth.
Once the stain has dried, you can apply a protective topcoat. Polyurethane is a popular choice for wood countertops, as it is durable and water-resistant. Apply the topcoat using a clean brush, roller, or sprayer, and be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times and application methods. Allow the topcoat to dry completely before using the countertop.
It's important to note that different types of wood may require different finishes, so be sure to research the best finish for your particular type of wood. Additionally, it's always a good idea to test the finish on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire countertop.
How often should I reapply a finish to my wood countertop?
It is recommended to reapply a finish to your wood countertop every 1-2 years, depending on the type of finish you have used and how much wear and tear the countertop receives. If you notice that the finish is starting to wear off or the wood is becoming dry and dull, it is time to reapply the finish. However, it's important to note that you should not overdo it with the finish as too much can build up and make the countertop look uneven and sticky. Before reapplying the finish, make sure to clean the countertop thoroughly and sand it down lightly to ensure proper adhesion. Additionally, using a protective mat or cutting board can help extend the life of the finish and prevent scratches and stains on the countertop.
What is the best finish for a wood countertop?
The best finish for a wood countertop ultimately depends on personal preference and the intended use of the countertop. Some popular finishes for wood countertops include oil, wax, polyurethane, and varnish.
Oil finishes, such as linseed oil or mineral oil, are popular for their natural and matte appearance. They provide a protective layer, but may require reapplication every few months or years depending on use. Wax finishes, such as beeswax or carnauba wax, provide a satin or glossy finish and require periodic reapplication.
Polyurethane and varnish finishes are more durable and provide a glossy finish, making them ideal for high-use areas such as kitchens. They require less maintenance and can withstand exposure to water and heat.
Ultimately, the best finish for a wood countertop depends on the desired appearance and level of maintenance. It's important to consult with a professional or do thorough research before choosing a finish to ensure it meets your specific needs.
What is the difference between a polyurethane and an oil-based finish for a wood countertop?
When it comes to finishing a wood countertop, there are two main options: polyurethane and oil-based finishes. While both of these options can provide protection and enhance the beauty of the wood, there are some key differences between them.
Polyurethane finishes are synthetic and typically have a glossy or satin sheen. They are highly durable and resist scratches, water damage, and heat. Because they are synthetic, they do not yellow over time like oil-based finishes can. Polyurethane finishes also dry quickly and are easy to apply with a brush or sprayer.
Oil-based finishes, on the other hand, are made from natural oils and resins. They typically have a matte or satin sheen and require more coats than polyurethane finishes. Oil-based finishes penetrate the wood and enhance its natural beauty, but they do not provide as much protection against scratches or water damage as polyurethane finishes. Oil-based finishes also tend to yellow over time, which can change the appearance of the wood.
Ultimately, the choice between a polyurethane and an oil-based finish for a wood countertop depends on your priorities. If you want maximum durability and protection, polyurethane is the way to go. If you want a more natural, matte finish that enhances the beauty of the wood, an oil-based finish may be the better choice.