8 Best Finish for Kitchen Table 2024 to Get Shiny Furniture

If you’re having thoughts on renovating your kitchen, you can’t miss out on furnishing your kitchen table. After all, the kitchen table is the thing that comes in the constant application in our daily lives. They are in close contact with small food particles especially if you have the little ones.

You will find several confusing reviews and articles that’ll make the puzzle more complicated of finding the perfect finish for the wood kitchen table. But this article has brought you the 8 best finish for kitchen table, which we have selected after a painstaking process.

Wait! In a rush? No time for scrolling through the whole review? Well, I’ll make things easier for you. Among these six, I believe ECOS Paints 00817292022678 is the best durable finish for the dining room table.

Top 8 Finish Comparison Table:

How to Choose the Right Finish for My Wooden Dining Table:

It is very hard to decide the best finish for wood kitchen table. But you will be delighted to know that there are so many different options for this. Different finishes have different quality, pros and cons.

You can just pick the best one for them. But first, it is important to know why wood actually needs a finish. Have a peek at the reasons.

• A finish helps to restrain the wood from moisture, sunlight, scratches etc. It also safeguards the wood periphery from almost anything that comes in touch with the wood.
• A good finish enhances the look of the wood. It gives the wood an elegant look.

As there are many fantastic finishes for kitchen table accessible in the store, you must be pixilated about which one to purchase. Well, there are some qualities that are very important to finish. Check these qualities out before buying the product. Here they are.

• Aesthetics
• Durability
• Reparability
• Workability

Now, we are gonna talk about a few wood finishes, each of them covering a separate range of qualities.

a) Wax:

If you want a product that is super easy to use and also sustains the original look, then the wax is the perfect option for you. It doesn’t change the colour much and provides a good level of protection.

Reparability and maintenance is the best quality of wax. However, if you want good protection, then it is better to reapply the wax twice or thrice in a year.

The problem is the durability of wax is lesser than others. So, if you are looking for an easy finish and durability doesn’t matter to you, and you are willing to reapply it a few times then the wax is the one for you.

b) Epoxy:

The durability of epoxy is higher than any other finish. It is commonly used to finish the top of the bars or tables. The reason for using it at bars and tables is, it is highly liquid resistance and scratch resistance.

The bad side of epoxy is the gloss appearance and probability of discolouration. Also, it is hard to reapply.

If your priority is durability, then you can use epoxy. But it will not give you the original wood look; instead, it will give you an aesthetic, plastic and glossy look. So, if you crave for this look, just go for it.

c) Polyurethane:

Polyurethane is the most used finish as it has a great combination of durability, aesthetics, reparability and workability.

The durability of the polyurethane is quite good. It is not as powerful and durable as epoxy, but it gives you your desired durability.

Also, it is more durable than wax. However,  polyurethane, which is based on water, is less viable than the oil-based one.

Polyurethane is versatile when it comes to aesthetic. It can be both matte or high gloss or in between.

Polyurethane is also repairable. If you have any hackle, just sand the hackled area again and embed another coat.

So, if you are looking for an easy to apply the finish, then you can go for wax and if you want a durable finish than epoxy might be the one. But if you want an all-in-one finish, then nothing can beat polyurethane.

Understanding Types of Wood Finishes:

There are usually two kinds of wood finishes. They are surface finish and penetrating finish.

The surface finish gives a natural wood look and easier to apply. It is usually applied on the periphery of the wood.

Penetrating is usually used inside furniture. It doesn’t give you a natural look, but the durability is high.

However, there are some common types of finishes that you should know about before painting. Take a look.

a) Oil Finish:

Oil finish is usually used for unfurnished wood to enhance its appearance. Wood contains some natural oil, but it dries out gradually.

Oil finish is used as a replacement of natural oil. Also, it protects the wood.

b) Dye:

There are two kinds of dyes. They are water-based dye and oil-based bye. It changes the natural colour of the periphery. It also protects the surface.

c) Varnish:

The varnish is made of three ingredients. They are oil, resins and solvents. It will give you a natural colour as it is transparent and clear.

Varnish takes time dry. But it gives good protection. It also safeguards the wood from UV rays.

d) Shellac:

Shellac is a mixture of alcohol solvent and wax which is collected from the tree. It has different types of colours.

Shellac is very facile to use and dries in no time. Also, it gives a fantastic high-gloss finish that everyone desires.

e) Lacquer:

Lacquer is a thin finish that is based on the solvent. Usually, it is sprayed. It dries very fast because of the solvent.

It provides the wood with natural beauty by going deeper into the wood. However, it gives a beautiful high-gloss look.

f) Stain:

Wood stain switches the colour of the wood. You can find stains in various colours. It performs better when the colour of the wood is lighter than this.

The stain doesn’t protect the wood much, but they enhance the visibility of the wood grain. It works better if you apply a coat of wood finish first.

8 Best Finish for Kitchen Table Top – 2024 Reviews:

If you’re interested in judging the selected categories of finishes, top-of-the-grade ones will be worthy enough!

Trust me; they come with great production value and durability. So without further explanation, let’s jump into it!

1. Minwax 63010444 Polyurethane Clear Finish

Highlighted Features:

• Durable.
• Multiple shades
• Ideal for woods.
• Dries faster.
• Chic finish

Minwax 63010444 Fast Drying Polyurethane Clear Finish is absolutely a good choice to go for. It has handily snatched maximum recommendations and positive reviews within a blink. Be it finished or unfinished woods this can ace each of them!

Providing you with a withstanding and elegant coating, this matchless product safeguards your wood and furniture. Woodworking, kitchen furniture or cabinets- this A-grade, one of the best stains for wood kitchen table handles all of them. This top-grade finish will let you choose from multiple shades for maximum satisfaction.

Long-Lasting and chic coating of Minwax 63010444 will render you extra-durability with an elegant finish. This Polyurethane Clear Finish dries very fast, you don’t need to let it dry for hours and you don’t have to fret about the finish getting all messed up.

This long withstanding finish can safeguard your kitchen table from powerful and heavy-duty grinder vibrations as well. How cool is that!

Even if it is your first time while ensuring a great wood finish to your homely kitchen, this will be your saviour. Going for this extraordinary product will not make you repent afterwards.

Pros:

• Clear and oil-based
• Dries faster
• Easy to use and clean
• The container comes in different sizes

Cons:

• Demands numerous coats.

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2. Waterlox TB 6044

Highlighted Features:

• Smooth finish
• Everlasting
• Oil-based
• Creates elastic lair
• Waterproof

Waterlox TB 6044 is another extraordinary finish for your kitchen table that can make your wooden pieces look classier than ever and drop dead. You will not believe how worthy it is unless you give it a try! It guarantees durability and easy-usage like no other product.

If you use this oil-based finish powered by Waterlox, it’ll breeze in and be waterproof while you coordinate this modern finish with Waterlox Original sealer/finish.

Unlike the cheaper and mainstream options, this amazing finish is a formula from renewable natural resources; With its tung oil finish. So if you like things nature-oriented, this is your bid!

Are you worried that your mixing grinder may spoil the finish of your kitchen table? No worries, this mind-boggling kitchen table finish formulates safeguarding yet elastic-like lair that can protect your table from food-particles, oil, and random spills.

This top-notch, worthy-looking finish will provide your furniture with an unusual satin touch that has a gloss level of 20-25 degrees. And you will not make faces at your kitchen tabletop finish anymore.

Pros:

• Tung oil gives it a natural touch.
• Makes the furnish everlasting.
• It comes in satin finish and quart.

Cons:

• It has a weird smell.

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3. Rust-Oleum 284473 Varathane

Highlighted Features:

• 3X thicker coating
• Fast drying
• Polyurethane components
• Water-based
• 50 sq feet coverage

This Varathane Triple Thick Polyurethane featured by Rust-Oleum provides you with a 3 times thicker coating than the mainstream finishes. With such strong and enduring coating this one can undoubtedly be claimed as one of the best wood polyurethane for the kitchen table.

We all have our little version in our homes who tend to spill everything on the kitchen table. That’s why Rust-Oleum 284473 has been manufactured with an advanced level self-levelling technique.

It permits to get your work done only with a single coating. It can give you a dry wooden surface in 2 hours only!

This preeminent finish makes the drying process easier and faster even though the coating is 3X stronger. This boss-level kitchen table finish will surely give your wooden furniture out-of-sight protection.

According to experts in this field, you can make use of this finish in every interior wooden furniture that you have in your households or workplaces. The water-based formula in it ensures stain resistance. And the silky finish renders another level of beauty to the wooden furniture.

Pros:

• 1-Quart Polyurethane included
• Advanced self-leveling manufacture
• Long-lasting coverage

Cons:

• Requires more than 4 coats

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4. General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Topcoat

Highlighted Features:

• Long-lasting
• Oil-based
• Made from Urethane
• Deep-down protection
• Dries fast

Arm-R-Seal brought to you by General finishes is manufactured with premium-grade urethane resin that makes it extra-ordinarily durable and everlasting.

You can wipe these oil-based formulated finish with a soft wiper or cloth. As it has taken place in our top 6 wood stains review it is worth it.

According to the experts, this kitchen or dining table finish is a great option to put your hands on. Many of its customers have said that they would never go for another brand anymore.

This superlative kitchen table finish alleges that they will give your pantry woods a rustic look along with deep-down protection. So why not give it a try?

It will provide you with a long-lasting and satin-smooth finish, what else does a kitchen fancier desire? You can give your interiors a very good finish with this awesome bomb that General Finishes has got you. If you value money and fancy high-end finish as well, this one’s for you.

Apply just 3 coats of this magic with your brush or roller and you’re done! Place your pot, plate, and grinder numerous times without fret with this boon. This unrivalled product does not even demand any further assistance as well. And dried faster than other mainstream ones.

Pros:

• Brushable and Sprayable.
• Usable above subsisting finishes
• Comes in Pints, Quarts, Gallons.

Cons:

• May affect wax coats below

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5.Valspar 144.0018012.005 Cabot VOC Interior Oil-Based Polyurethane

Highlighted features:

• Oil-based Polyurethane
• ½ pint
• Dries within 30 mins
• Semi-glistening finish
• Withstanding performance

Valspar 144.0018012.005 Oil-Based Polyurethane is another great option to choose from typical finishes for your stylish kitchen setting. This oil-based kitchen table finish ensures that your kitchen’s wood surface is protected. It lets you enjoy a tough and everlasting finish within your budget. Isn’t that amazing?

It doesn’t matter if you bring this magic pine. mahogany, oak, maple or whatever sort of wood it’ll protect that like a boss!

The semi-gloss finish that this boon brings is amazing and suits every kitchen style- modern or contemporary. If you still haven’t managed to get your kitchen interiors a nice finish then it’s time to get this extraordinaire.

You will find many types of interior wood finishes but not all of them are worth getting your hands on. Most of the products available in the market take long hours to dry fully. Unlike those under-rated ones, this Valspar 144.0008017.003 ensures that the finish dries quickly.

No matter how occupied your kitchen usually is or how frequently you place your grinder on your kitchen table, your finish will remain the same. And guess what? You can use this absolutely matchless interior finish on your floor surface as well. So go for it!

Pros:

• Perfect for every wood type
• Floor surface usable
• Easy to apply

Cons:

• A bit pricey

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6. ECOS Paints 00817292022678 Shield

Highlighted Features:

• No polyurethane odor
• No-yellowing clear coating
• No added antimicrobials, pesticides or fungicides.
• Component clarity
• Fast-drying

If you scour through the market, you will notice that most of the interior finishes include a significant polyurethane odour.

And this weird smell is a valid reason behind your headache, nausea and respiratory diseases. And this one is probably one of the best finishes for the wood tabletop that comes with no polyurethane odor.

It will come with a clear,non-yellowing protective coating which the first and foremost feature anyone searches.

Even if you have a previous history of allergy/asthma or even multiple chemical sensitivities, this stunning product will be gentle with you. Because this A-grade product is mainly formulated without added antimicrobials, pesticides or fungicides.

While purchasing any item, a consumer has the right of knowing A to Z about any product. For awareness, we are here to offer you full ingredient disclosure.

You can choose wisely whether to go for it or not. You get a better privilege of judging if you want to take this product to your homes or not.

This matchless kitchen table finish gives a touch of semi-gloss which is a high/mid-sheen- the best choice for your cabin, kitchen, dining room table or floors. ECOS Paints 00817292022678 includes fast-drying formula along with washable, withstanding coating up to 600 sq feet.

So mess up all your spices, grinders, herbs and pots without any more panic.

Pros:

• Washable and withstanding
• Semi-gloss
• 600 sq feet coverage

Cons:

• A bit pricey

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7. Varathane 200241H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane:

Highlighted Features

• Water-based
• Scratch-resistance
• Satin finish

Varathane water-based polyurethane increases the natural beauty of the wood as the transparency of this finish is very high. It is great at stain and scratch-resistance, which keep your wood surface look great for a long period.

Varathane water-based polyurethane provides a clear water-based protective layer for the wood periphery. Most of the scratch-resistance damage and change the colour of the wood surface over time. But varathane will never change the colour.

Varathane water-based polyurethane protects the indoor surface of wood such as windows, furniture, trim, furniture etc.

It is a water-based formula. That’s why it dries very fast. Also, it is super scratch and stain-resistance with amazing clarity.

It gives a classy and natural look because of its satin finish. Perfect for doors, cabinet, trims and other interior projects because of its clear formula.

Varathane polyurethane, which is water-based, is very spontaneous to clean. You can clean it by using just soap and water, which saves hassle and time.

Pros:

• Classy and natural finish
• Water-based
• Dries fast
• clear topcoat
• Low odour
• Water-resistant
• Easy to clean
• Doesn’t change the colour

Cons:

• Toxicity is not mentioned

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8. Grizzly Industrial H2372 Good Stuff Wood Finish For Maple Tops

Highlighted Features

• Water-resistant
• Alcohol resistant
• Contains synthetic oils

Before asserting anything about this item, I would like to let you know about this amazing brand. Grizzly Industrial is a well-known and trustworthy brand. It has earned its position over the years.

The most fantastic thing about this item is that it is waterproof. If you are wondering that if it is actually true or not, then I can assure you that it is true and the product is actually waterproof, which is a big plus.

This product is quite durable. It doesn’t have any odour. So people who can’t tolerate odour will be helpful. The odour just disappears after applying it. You can also use the kitchen just after applying.

Grizzly Industrial Good Stuff Wood Finish is super effortless to use. It is more like a gel. That’s why you can use a cloth to apply this which is very comfortable for beginners. Also, it dries fast.

This product gives the wooden surface a classy and non-glossy look. If you don’t like gloss, then it is perfect for you as it doesn’t come with gloss.

But the downside is this product is a bit costly than others. But you cannot expect such good things with a cheap amount. And believe me, this fantastic product is worth the dollar.

Pros:

• Waterproof
• Provides classy look
• Comes with minimal gloss
• Durable
• Easy to apply
• No odour

Cons:

• A bit costly

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Semi-gloss or Satin: Which is Better?

Choosing a finish for the kitchen is as hard as choosing the colour of it. There are different types of finishes out there. The most popular are satin and semi-gloss. Let us see which one is better.

If you are up for a matte look, stain finish is the ideal one for you. It is not glazing like semi-gloss finish. It only gives a pearl-like shine and easy to clean as well.

A stain is perfect for places like bathroom, kitchen, living room where durability is more needed.

Also, the satin finish is facile to clean. Just take a damp cloth and wipe it lightly. Don’t scrub too hard. Otherwise, it will be damaged.

On the other hand, semi-gloss finishes a shiny look and increase the architectural details. It is used in the bathroom, kitchen, cabinets etc.

It increases the aesthetics of any place. Also, it is felicitous for places that are used oftentimes as it is very facile to clean. But the problem is semi-gloss finish highlights places that are imperfect.

Both satin and gloss finish have their own good and bad side. But for kitchen table semi-gloss will be more appropriate. Because the kitchen table is used regularly in every house and it is easy to clean if you use a semi-gloss finish.

Factors to Consider before Purchasing

In this review, we have tried to inform you about the best 6 ruling finish for your kitchen table with our painstaking survey. Yet some factors have to sit in your mind before getting your hands on any finish for your wooden interiors.

Anyone who intends on making their wooden furniture appears like they are finished by the experts has to know these factors very well.

So let’s comprehend-

a. Durability:

If your bought product doesn’t guarantee that it resists frequent frictions and rough hands then it isn’t your cup of tea. It’s not every day when you get your kitchen interiors a fresh finish, no?

So, checking the sturdiness of your purchased finish is a must.

Most of the mainstream products massively visible in the market come with a very short withstanding assurance that makes your work tougher. If you go for the below-average ones, you will have to get a furnish every year.

That’s why check out the durability of it.

b. Curing Duration:

If your interior finish takes a long time to get dry, then you’re in a problematic situation. We all have our little pets and toddlers strolling around almost everywhere. And obviously, they tend to touch everything around.

In such a case, your purchased kitchen table finish will make things messier.

On the other hand, there are many topper ones that’ll dry faster than ever. This windfall will make sure that you get a chic and matchless shiny finish on your kitchen furniture. And that even within the shortest period any finish can ever take.

c. Ease of Application:

Are you a newbie in the finishing and its application factors? If so, then you are most likely to prefer a finish that wipes on easily so that you don’t end up worrying about your little faults.

On the other hand, if you are an expert woodworker who has been doing finish chores for a while, you might go for spray-on finishes or brush-on finishes. If you go for the spray-finish for your wooden table, have a glance at the manufacturer’s instruction first.

Make sure that your wood type is suitable for the spray method.

d. Wood Type:

Before taking away a finish formula towards your home, think twice about how you intend to use the wood. Not all wood types are suitable for every finish.

Even before applying the finish in on your wood, it takes some steps of preparation. Otherwise, your finish will not sit in the interiors properly. You can choose from a wide variety of finish types.

Water-based, oil-based, shellac and what not? Clear, dry or deep finish- you can have it all!

How to Finish a Wood Table Top with Polyurethane:

You can finish tabletop in two ways. You can either spray the finish or brush it. But in both cases, you need to sand the surface first. you can not expect a perfect finish without sanding. you have to sand the wood until it becomes scratch-free and smooth.

After sanding, you can apply the finish. You might require a few coats of finish for an excellent result. Take a break in between for one or two hours and let the finish dry.

Also, sand it again with 220-grit sandpaper after applying every coat and after sanding don’t forget to remove the dust. After applying the final coat, wait for one day before you start to use the table.

FAQ

1. What is the most durable finish for a kitchen table?

I think the most durable finish is varnish for a kitchen table. It is durable than wax and gives a clean and transparent look.

2. How do you safeguard the top of a table or kitchen table?

We usually use a table or kitchen table on a regular basis. That is why it is vital to safeguard the top of the table. You can protect the top of a table by applying several coats of finishes.

3. What kind of polyurethane do you use on a kitchen table?

There are two types of polyurethane available on the market. They are water-based and oi(-based polyurethane. You can use both for your kitchen table; it depends on a few things which one to use. You can use water-based polyurethane finishes if you want a transparent finish. But it will be less deep. But if you demand a deep, long-lasting and good finish then go for oil-based one.

4. What is the perfect way of applying polyurethane on a wood table?

If you want to apply polyurethane on a table in the best way, then you should follow some step. They are,

• Sand the surface
• Remove the dust
• Seal the surface
• Apply the first coat of the finish
• Sand the first coat
• Apply the second coat of the finish

5. What is the best finish for pine table?

The best finish for a pine table is satin varnish. Gel varnish works well for pine table. Also, you can use a brushed-on coat of the satin varnish.

6. Is lacquer a good finish for a kitchen table?

I think lacquer is a good finish for the kitchen table. It dries very fast and provides the table with a natural look as it goes deeper into the wood. Also, it gives good protection and easy to use.

7. Can I use wax or oil to finish a wood table?

Yes, you can use wax or oil to finish a wood table. Oil or wax is easy to apply and gives a natural look. It doesn’t switch the colour of the wood. The maintenance of wax is also very easy. However, if you want good durability, then you can choose other finish over wax as it needs to be repaired a few times in a year.

8. How can I fix scuffs, holes, and scratches in my finished wood?

Ans. Furniture tends to get scuffs and scratches very frequently.

Numerous trivial scratches in the furniture that goes through the colour can be fixed by using Stain Marker. And for nailing holes you can use wood putty. That’ll work wonders.

You can find them in various colours to coordinate with your shade of wood.

9. Is it ok to apply more than two coats of Hard Wax Oil to be a tabletop?

Ans:  If you’re working with bare wood, we would like to request you to stick with the manufacturer’s guide and apply 2 coats only.

Contrarily, you may develop a finish on your woods that’ll most likely be scratched easily.

10. Can I use worktop oil on dining tabletops?

Ans. Of course, many worktop oils that come with extravagant durability and safeguard against any sort of scuffs and scratches.

On the other hand, they are easy to apply, easy to maintain

11. What is the process of applying Polyurathane to a wood table?

Ans. The application of polyurethane to a wooden table is quite simple. Most of the people apply it through brush or specifically saying a paintbrush. If you are planning to do the same I will recommend you to get a nice and soft foam brush.

The soft foam brushes will leave fewer streaks and trivial marks. Which will let you get a fine and smooth finish in your wooden table.

Additionally, I would request you to take a period of the break between the application for two coats. Contrarily, the bottom coat may not remain properly dry.

Wrapping Up:

You need to do your homework properly before paying anything.

While refinishing your favorite wooden table, it’s a matter of thought that which finish has to be chosen.

As we have researched very well so that you end up messing up your finishing process, we hope that this enriched article will meet your needs.

If you be careless in this case you might need to finish yours within every year. And in our 9 to 5 life it is pretty impossible. So we would urge you to go for the Best Finish for Kitchen Table that you have. We can pretty guarantee you that if you take assistance from us through this informative review of 2023. You will make a good bid while purchasing the best finish for your interiors.

Last Updated on May 31, 2024 by Rogers Weber

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