Reading a finish label before you start
The label sets the steps, drying time, and cleanup. EPA says to follow it.
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Why the label
EPA says to "Meet or exceed any label precautions." EPA's household hazardous waste page says: "Follow any instructions for use and storage provided on product labels carefully to prevent any accidents at home."
What to look for
Read the label for how to apply the product, drying and recoat times, ventilation, protective equipment, cleanup, and what to do with used rags and leftovers. Each of these is the maker's instruction for that product.
Label terms
Words such as water-based, low VOC, food safe, or non-toxic on a label are the maker's terms, not ours. Ask the maker what they mean.
Rags and applicators
Massachusetts' Department of Fire Services says: "The oils in some paints, stains, and varnishes release heat as they dry. If oily rags and applicators are left in a pile, a box, or the trash, the heat can remain trapped and cause a fire that quickly spreads to nearby combustibles." Follow the label and your local fire officials.
Keep the label
EPA says to keep hazardous products "in their original containers and never remove labels."
This is general information, not legal or safety advice.
Sources: EPA, Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality; EPA, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW); Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (mass.gov), Disposing of oily rags.
FAQ
General information only. Follow every product label and increase ventilation when you finish, as EPA advises. State fire and health agencies warn that rags used with some oil-based stains and finishes can catch fire on their own: never leave them in a pile, and dry and dispose of them as the label and your local fire officials direct. CPSC says to anchor furniture with drawers, doors, and shelves to the wall. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: ventilation
EPA lines on airflow.
