​🧰  What You’ll Need

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• Soft brush or sponge

• Mild soap (dish soap works well)

• Garden hose (for gentle rinsing)

• Cedar-safe wood brightener

• Protective gloves & eye protection

• High-quality oil-based stain

• Brush, staining pad, or sprayer

• Drop cloth or tarp

• Clean rags

Optional:

• Mask/respirator (for stain fumes)

• Stir stick (avoid shaking stain cans)

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🧼  Step 1: Clean the Surface

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Start by removing dirt, mildew, and debris.

Use a soft brush or sponge with mild soap and water, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.

Allow the wood to dry completely before moving on—this typically takes 24–48 hours depending on weather.

Important:
Try to avoid pressure washing. It may seem faster, but it can damage the wood fibers and strip away existing protection. If you do pressure wash, use the lowest pressure possible and spray gently.

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✨  Step 2: Apply a Wood Brightener

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Once the surface is clean, apply a cedar-safe wood brightener according to the product’s instructions.

This step:

• Restores the wood’s natural color

• Removes graying and tannin stains

• Prepares the surface for even stain absorption

Allow the wood to dry fully again (at least 24 hours) before staining.

Tip:
Look for oxalic acid-based brighteners, which are especially effective and safe for cedar.

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🎨 Step 3: Apply a Protective Stain

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Now for the step that really makes cedar shine.

Apply a high-quality oil-based stain using a brush, pad, or sprayer. Work in manageable sections and follow the grain of the wood for an even finish.

Oil-based stains are ideal for cedar because they penetrate deeply, providing better long-term protection against moisture and UV exposure.

Allow the stain to dry as directed (typically 12–24 hours) before use or exposure to moisture.

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🌲 Recommended Stains

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At Mukilteo Cedar, we use and recommend:

• Penofin Red Label -
  Transparent Western Red Cedar tone with excellent UV protection
  Designed specifically to enhance cedar’s natural beauty

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Other trusted options include:

• Ready Seal Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer

• Cabot Australian Timber Oil

• Messmer’s UV Plus​

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👍 Final Tips for Best Results

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• Always stain on a dry day with mild temperatures (50–80°F is ideal)

• Avoid direct midday sun while applying stain

• Stir stain thoroughly—don’t shake it

• Apply thin, even coats for best absorption

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