Wood Finish Water-Based Color Stain (Semi-Transparent)
Water-based (all colors) · US · not yet reviewed
Short answer
Ready for another coat: 1–2 hours after application.
Light use: 6 hours after application.
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Your countdown
Stated times
- Safe to touch15 minutes
- Ready for another coat1–2 hours
- Light use6 hours
From Minwax data sheet · checked 2026-10-24. Anything not listed isn’t stated by the manufacturer.
Conditions & fine print
- Stated conditions: 77°F and 50% relative humidity
- Apply above 50°F with humidity below 85%. Topcoat after 2–3 hours. The product overview gives shorter times than the data sheet table; this site uses the table.
- Temperature range: 50°F to —°F
- Region US. Formulas can differ between countries; check your container.
- Safe to touch: 77°F and 50% RH
- Ready for another coat: 77°F and 50% RH; topcoat after 2–3 hours
- Light use: 77°F and 50% RH
- Entered from the manufacturer source; second review pending. Report outdated information
- Actual results depend on preparation, thickness, ventilation, temperature, humidity, mixing and substrate.
Questions
How long before Wood Finish Water-Based Color Stain (Semi-Transparent) is ready for another coat?
Minwax states: Recoat: 1–2 hours (topcoat: 2–3 hours). Conditions: 77°F and 50% RH; topcoat after 2–3 hours. This is the manufacturer’s stated time, not a guarantee.
How long before Wood Finish Water-Based Color Stain (Semi-Transparent) is light use?
Minwax states: Dry to use/service: 6 hours. Conditions: 77°F and 50% RH. This is the manufacturer’s stated time, not a guarantee.