Cerumen, or earwax, is a secretion formed by a gland in the ear canal of humans and most other mammals.
MinwaxÂ® Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner is specifically designed for use before staining new or bare soft and porous wood surfaces. It penetrates the grain of the wood to promote uniform acceptance of stain. Prior to staining, apply a liberal coat of the Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner.Allow it to penetrate for 5-15 minutes, then wipe away the excess with a cloth. In fact, for highly absorbent woods, you can then apply a second coat, wait, and wipe away the excess again.. Prepare consists of getting the wood surface ready for stain and finish application, and includes wood conditioning. Before you start a refinishing or finishing project, be sure that the wood's surface is dry and free of old finishes in poor condition, paint, wax, grease, polish, dirt or other foreign matter.
To achieve a darker stain color, use coarser grit of sandpaper (#150-#180) on the last sanding you do prior to staining. This will help the wood absorb more color. You can also leave the wet stain on the wood for longer before you wipe away the excess - sometimes as long as 15 minutes. This may help you achieve a deeper color. Note: check the label directions for the particular stain you're using to see the maximum time you can wait before wiping off the excess stain.