What unfinished wood furniture is
Furniture sold without a final finish, and what to read before you finish it.
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What the word means here
On this site, unfinished furniture means a piece sold without a final coat of stain, paint, or clear finish, so the buyer finishes it. The maker's listing says what, if anything, has been applied.
Read the maker's description
Words such as solid wood, hardwood, veneer, or a wood species in a listing are the maker's description, not ours. We do not check them. Ask the maker what the piece is made of. The FTC rescinded its Guides for the Household Furniture Industry in 2002 (67 FR 9923), so we do not cite them as a current rule.
Before you finish a piece
EPA says: "Paints, varnishes and wax all contain organic solvents." EPA says these products "can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when they are stored." EPA says to "Increase ventilation when using products that emit VOCs" and to "Meet or exceed any label precautions."
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.
Pieces with drawers, doors, or shelves
CPSC says: "Anchoring all furniture with drawers, doors, and shelves to the wall prevents tip-over injuries and deaths." Follow the maker's instructions. That holds for a piece whether or not it is finished.
What we do not do
We do not name makers, stores, or products, give prices, or say any piece suits your home. We do not give building, repair, or refinishing instructions.
This is general information, not legal or safety advice.
Sources: Federal Register, Guides for the Household Furniture Industry, 67 FR 9923 (March 5, 2002); EPA, Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality; CPSC, Anchor It.
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: wood terms
Wood terms are the maker's words.
