Refinishing kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your home. Staining is a popular option for giving your cabinets a fresh, updated appearance. However, before applying that new stain color, an important decision must be made – should you strip off the existing cabinet finish or stain over it? There are pros and cons to both approaches, so understanding the options is key to achieving the best end results.

What is Cabinet Stripping?

Cabinet stripping involves completely removing the existing finish or stain from your cabinet boxes and doors. This takes the cabinets down to the bare wood. Stripping the old finish creates a “blank slate” for applying new stain and sealant.

There are a few methods for stripping wood:

Chemical strippers – These solvent-based products soften or dissolve the old finish so it can be removed with a tool. Formulas vary, but common active ingredients include methylene chloride, acetone, methanol, toluene, or phenol.
Abrasive methods – Sanding, scraping, and sandblasting physically wear away the finish. Medium to coarse grit sandpaper is commonly used.
Heat guns – Heating the finish helps bubble and lift it from the wood so it can be scraped off.

Proper safety precautions are required for each stripping method to avoid inhaling fumes or having chemicals contact your skin. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective equipment like gloves, long sleeves, goggles, and a respirator mask.

Reasons to Strip Before Staining

Here are some of the main benefits of stripping your kitchen cabinets prior to restaining:

Removes Existing Finish for Best Stain Adhesion

The new stain needs to fully penetrate into the wood to achieve maximum durability. Any remaining old finish or stain will block absorption and lead to premature peeling, cracking, or chipping. Completely stripping provides the ideal bare surface for stain to bond tightly and withstand heavy use and cleaning over time.

Allows Uniform Stain Absorption Across the Wood

If stained over an existing finish, there may be uneven absorption. Some areas will readily soak up stain while others resistance absorption due to differences in the underlying layers. The end result can look splotchy or patchy. Stripping provides consistent porosity across all the wood for uniform staining.

Prevents Interactions Between Finishes

Certain finish products do not bond well when layered. For example, a wax-based stain may repel water-based polyurethane applied on top. Chemical reactions between incompatible products can ruin the final look. Stripping eliminates potential finish incompatibility issues.

Removes Dirt, Grime, and Residue in Grooves

Kitchen cabinets accumulate layers of grease, dirt, food, and spills over their lifetime. This gunk gets lodged in cracks, crevices, carved details, and hardware cutouts. Thorough stripping cleans the wood for maximum stain absorption and adhesion.

Lighter Stain Colors Show Best on Raw Wood

Some dense or resinous woods become nearly impossible to stain lighter after years of dark staining. The previous stain continues influencing the color. Stripping may be the only way to successfully achieve a maple, birch, pine, oak, or walnut cabinet with a light whitewash or Scandinavian-inspired muted finish.

Fixes Damage from Prior Attempted Refinishing

Sometimes previous staining or refinishing attempts didn’t turn out perfectly. There may be drips, uneven coverage, or blotchiness. The old finish may also yellow and darken with age. Stripping everything allows correction of any flaws.

Removes musty odors from humidity or leaks

Wood cabinets subjected to leaks, flooding, or high humidity can develop a permanent musty stench. This smell can linger even after the wood dries out. Stripping may be the only way to fully eliminate the embedded odor. A new stain and sealant can then be applied to prevent future issues.

Reasons to Stain Over Existing Finish

While stripping has its advantages, there are also valid reasons to simply sand and apply new stain over existing cabinet finishes:

Added Labor for Stripping

Completely stripping cabinets is labor intensive and time consuming. Chemical strippers take hours to work and require repeated application. Sanding or scraping to remove finish is physically demanding. Avoiding stripping will get the job done much faster.

Potential Damage to Wood from Harsh Chemicals

Certain potent chemical strippers can be overly harsh on wood. The stripping process risks bleaching the color, raising the grain, and damaging the integrity of the wood. The focus should instead be keeping cabinets intact.

Difficulty Stripping Decorative Grooves and Edges

Kitchen cabinet doors often have detailed routered edges and grooves. Stripping products cannot adequately penetrate into these tight corners. The old finish will remain stuck in the crevices even after stripping. Staining over avoids this complication.

Convenience of Quick Color Change with Gel Stain

Gel stains can successfully go over existing finishes like polyurethane, lacquer, and varnish. No stripping or extensive sanding is needed. The thick gel adheres well and adds color while retaining the wood’s texture. It’s the easiest stain method.

Less Dust and Disruption in the Home

Aggressive sanding and scraping fill a home with fine dust that settles everywhere. Chemical fumes also require ample ventilation. Avoiding stripping minimizes the mess and household disruption. Things can be kept tidier.

Salvages Thin Veneers on Doors and Drawer Fronts

Many cabinets utilize thin veneers of rare or expensive wood over cheaper substrate material. Harsh stripping risks peeling away or otherwise damaging the delicate veneer layer. Staining over is less likely to harm these fragile surfaces.

No Risk of Lead Paint if Previously Painted

Older cabinets may have been painted with lead-based paint. Stripping this paint to reach bare wood raises concerns over lead dust and chips. Simply applying new stain avoids stirring up this hazardous material.

Environmentally Friendly to Avoid Chemical Waste

Hazardous chemical stripping waste must be disposed of properly. Leftover stripper with dissolved old finish contains toxic solvents, heavy metals from pigments, and other contaminants. Avoiding stripping is better for the environment.

Best Practices for Stripping Cabinets

If you do opt to strip your kitchen cabinets prior to restaining, follow these best practices:

Test strip a small hidden area first to ensure the product and method work as expected on your cabinets without damage.
Remove cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware before stripping. Don’t strip hinges or mechanical components.
Use appropriate PPE – gloves, eye protection, long sleeves, and a respirator mask or ventilator. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Apply a thick, even coat of stripper according to manufacturer directions. Give it adequate time to fully soften the existing finish.
Use a plastic scraper to gently remove the softened finish. Take care not to gouge the wood. Avoid metal scrapers than can scratch.
Once finish is removed, neutralize the wood per stripper instructions to stop further chemical reaction. Often a vinegar-water solution is used.
Thoroughly clean stripped wood with wood cleaner or mineral spirits to remove any lingering chemical residue. Avoid bleach.
Lightly sand with fine 220+ grit paper to smooth raised grain. Be very gentle to avoid damaging exposed raw wood.
Allow wood to fully dry 48-72 hours. The moisture content must be stabilized before restaining.
Apply conditioner before staining to equalize finish absorption on stripped dense hardwoods like oak, mahogany, teak, or older softwoods.
Test and sample your desired stain color on the stripped wood before fully applying.

By following best practices, you can achieve beautiful results stripping cabinets for an updated stain color.

Steps for Staining Over Existing Finish

If opting to stain over kitchen cabinets rather than fully stripping, these steps are recommended:

Lightly scuff sand to degloss the old finish. Use 220-320 grit paper. Avoid sanding down to bare wood.
Clean thoroughly with a degreasing wood cleaner like TSP Substitute to remove grease and dirt buildup.
Use a liquid deglosser if necessary to etch and create texture for staining over shiny lacquer or varnish.
Select a compatible stain like gel stain that works over existing finishes. Always test on a hidden spot first.
When gel staining, use a plastic applicator or brush and thin coats for an even appearance. Too thick can appear blotchy.
If using a liquid stain over old varnish or polyurethane, thin with a mixing agent for penetration into the finish. Mixing conditioner into the stain can help.
Apply protective sealer like polyurethane after staining if needed to protect the new color. Match sheen level to existing cabinets.

With proper prep and technique, quality results can be achieved without the effort of full stripping.

Stripping vs. Staining Over – Which is Better?

Determining whether to strip or stain over kitchen cabinets depends on your specific goals:

For dramatic color change from dark to light stain, stripping may be required for ideal results.
To touch up minor color fading while retaining existing stain’s patina, apply fresh topcoat without stripping.
Seeking an entirely new uniform look warrants stripping to bare wood before restaining and sealing.
Quick weekend update is better achieved by applying gel stain over current finish.
Severely damaged, deteriorated, or incompatible finishes justify stripping to protect your efforts.
Staining over is recommended if cabinets are factory finished or quality varnish with good adhesion.

Consider your particular cabinets, the old and new stain colors, your time constraints, and willingness for intensive work. Weigh the pros and cons of both approaches. In many cases, staining over successfully avoids the stripping process.

How to Know if You Need to Strip Before Staining

Not sure whether your cabinets require stripping or can be stained over? Here are ways to help determine:

Test adhesion – In a small inconspicuous spot like inside a door, cut an “X” through the finish with a razor blade. Apply masking tape over the cut and press firmly, then rip off. If the finish easily peels up, it lacks adhesion and needs stripping.
Check for cracking or bubbling – Examine the existing finish closely under good lighting. Any cracking, bubbling, or peeling points to a compromised surface in need of stripping.
Determine finish type – Natural oil-based varnish, conversion varnish, and factory finishes typically allow staining over without issues. Latex paint, polycrylic, and lacquer may require stripping first.
Try to scratch finish – Use a coin or key to attempt scratching the finish. If easily marred, the finish is too compromised and stripping should be done to avoid problems.
Consider color change – For dramatic lightening of stain color by more than four shades, stripping provides the most predictable results.

Carefully checking the condition and compatibility of the existing finish will reveal whether stripping kitchen cabinets is recommended before applying fresh stain.

What to Do After Stripping Cabinets Before Staining

Once you’ve stripped the cabinets, proper steps must be taken to prep for stain:

Allow 48-72 hours for full drying as moisture is raised during stripping. Test moisture levels.
Make any needed wood repairs – fill holes, smooth scratches, glue joints. Stain will accentuate flaws.
Lightly sand stripped wood with 220+ grit sandpaper to smooth raised grain. Be gentle to avoid damaging wood.
Vacuum stripped cabinets thoroughly to remove all dust before staining. Dust interferes with penetration.
Condition porous, raw wood with a premixed wood conditioner if needed to prevent blotchy absorption.
Samples and testing should be performed on each type of stripped wood to determine compatibility and desired color.
Wood bleach can be used at this stage if desiring an extremely light “pickled” or whitewashed appearance.
Primer may be beneficial on soft or porous woods before staining to build an absorption barrier for more even coloring.
Read manufacturer’s instructions before staining and follow all label directions. Do not deviate from product guidance.

Proper prep before staining your newly stripped cabinets will pay off with smoother application and better end results. Patience is required for ideal success.

FAQs About Stripping Before Staining Cabinets

Do you have to strip stained cabinets before painting?

Staining over paint rarely adheres well. For the toughest and most durable painted finish, stripping the existing stain or varnish provides the best results. The wood must be as close to bare as possible.

Can I use a heat gun to strip cabinets?

Yes, heat guns can be used to soften existing finish for removal in the stripping process. Keep the heat setting below 700°F. Work in sections and watch closely to avoid scorching the wood. Scrape frequently before finish re-hardens.

How long does it take to strip cabinets?

Stripping kitchen cabinets is a labor and time intensive process. It typically takes 8-12 hours for doors and drawer fronts. Expect full cabinet stripping to take 25 hours or longer. Proper chemical removers are applied and then dwell time must be allowed.

Is stripping worth the effort?

For significant color changes, damaged finish, or highly contaminate wood, stripping provides the best foundation for restaining success. For quick updates with similar stain color, applying over existing finish often works well. Assess effort vs. reward.

How much does it cost to strip and refinish cabinets?

Expect to pay $800 to $1500 for professional stripping and refinishing of an average sized kitchen’s cabinets. This does not include new hardware or modifications. DIY can lower costs but involves extensive manual effort.

Can I stain over old stain without stripping?

In most cases, wood cabinets can be stained over successfully as long as the prior finish has good adhesion. Lightly scuff, remove grime, and use compatible stain. Gel stains are ideal choices. Test before fully applying.

Conclusion

Stripping your kitchen cabinets to bare wood is ideal for achieving maximum stain adhesion and uniform absorption. However, in many situations, preparation and use of the proper staining products allows satisfactory results staining directly over an existing finish.

Carefully assess the condition of your cabinets, your desired new stain color, time constraints, and willingness to handle intense chemical stripping processes. Weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether stripping existing finish will provide the best outcome to meet your particular kitchen vision. With wise planning, either staining approach can result in gorgeous updated cabinets.

5 Tips for Staining Over Existing Finish

Staining kitchen cabinets without fully stripping can save huge time and effort. If done properly, staining over creates beautiful results. Follow these top 5 tips:

Lightly scuff sand to degloss and create texture – Abrasion allows stain penetration.
Wash thoroughly with degreaser – Remove grease buildup that blocks absorption.
Use gel stain – Thick consistency adheres well over prior finishes.
Apply in thin coats – Too much gel stain appears blotchy. Build to desired color.
Seal with polyurethane – Protect new color with a clear topcoat. Match sheen.

When to Avoid Staining Over Finish?

Certain situations do warrant taking cabinets down to bare wood:

Existing finish is damaged, peeling, or has poor adhesion
Switching from dark to very light stain color
Need to remove musty odors from high moisture exposure
Previously stained over paint which is now problematic
Working with low quality cabinets with thin veneers

If none of the above apply, staining over will likely give you great results!

DIY Stripping vs Professional Stripping

DIY Stripping Considerations

Labor intensive process – Be prepared for major time and elbow grease
Potentially hazardous – Take precautions against chemical exposure
Risk of wood damage – Care must be taken with harsh chemicals
Difficult to reach all crevices – Limitations accessing tight grooves
Proper disposal of chemicals – Follow hazardous waste guidelines

Professional Stripping Benefits

Experience efficiently stripping cabinets without damage
Right tools and commercial equipment for best results
Take care of chemical handling and proper disposal
Reach intricate grooves and carvings
Allow you to avoid intense labor and hassle

Carefully weigh whether you or a professional are best equipped to properly strip your kitchen cabinets prior to restaining.

Common Stripping Problems and Solutions

Stripping cabinets comes with some common challenges. Here are solutions to these issues:

Problem: Finish not fully removed from crevices

Solution: Use detail scrapers and toothbrush to manually remove from grooves

Problem: Wood bleached or roughened from chemicals

Solution: Lightly sand with fine grit paper and apply wood conditioner

Problem: Stain blotchy due to uneven absorption

Solution: Pre-treat with wood conditioner before staining

Problem: New stain not properly adhering

Solution: Ensure wood fully dried after stripping – test moisture content

Problem: Stripper drying too quickly

Solution: Work in smaller sections; apply thicker amount of stripper

Staining Tips for Common Cabinet Wood Types

Oak – Porous and absorbent; pretreat to avoid blotchiness

Maple – Dense and even absorption; easily stained

Cherry – Requires pretreatment for uniform color

Pine – Highly porous softwood; condition before staining

Hickory – Difficult to stain evenly due to density; multiple coats

Alder – Light wood that readily accepts stain; easy to work with

Birch – Smooth wood that stains easily; test for blotchiness

Walnut – Rich wood that stains deeper on softer earlywood sections

Refinishing Cabinets – Full Process Overview

Here is an overview of the full refinishing process:

Remove doors, drawers, and hardware from cabinet boxes
Clean

Do You Have to Strip Cabinets Before Staining?