Stains and finishes
Stains, oils, clear coats, and paint, with the oily rag warning first.
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Oily rags can catch fire
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.
Guides
Wood stain basics, with the label first
Read the can, mind the rags.
Oil finishes and the rag warning
The rag warning comes first.
Water-based and oil-based finishes: reading the label
Both terms are the maker's.
Polyurethane, shellac, and lacquer: VOCs and labels
Solvents and airflow, per EPA.
Painting unfinished furniture: labels and airflow
Paint is a finish too.
Start with wood stain
Read the can, mind the rags.
