Choosing the Right Finish - Oils, Varnishes & Waxes Explained

When your wood project is prepped and stained, there’s just one step left - protecting your hard work. But choosing between oil, varnish, or wax polish can be confusing if you’re unsure what each one offers.

To make it easier, we’ve broken down how each product works, what they’re best for, and how to use them properly. Whether you're reviving a table, finishing floorboards, or protecting kitchen counters, there’s a perfect match for your project.


Littlefair’s has two specialist oils - Superior Worktop Oil and Superior Danish Oil - each offering a different finish and protection level. Both enhance the wood’s natural grain beautifully and you can even choose one that's food safe.

Superior Worktop Oil

Great for - Kitchen worktops, Chopping boards, Wooden utensils
Why choose it? Strong water resistance, Food-safe when cured, Leaves a natural, matte finish

How to use:

  • Apply with a lint-free cloth or brush
  • Thin the first coat with 25% white spirit
  • Leave for 10–15 minutes, then wipe away excess
  • Apply at least 3 coats, sanding lightly in between

Superior Danish Oil

Great for - Furniture and décor, Doors, beams and internal panelling, Hardwoods and softwoods
Why choose it? Enhances grain with a warm, satin sheen, Easy to apply and maintain, Suitable for interior woodwork

How to use:

  • Apply evenly with a good quality cloth or brush
  • Wait 2-3 hours between coats
  • Lightly sand between coats for smooth results

💡 Top tip: Danish Oil is slightly glossier than Worktop Oil - perfect if you want a bit of sheen without going full gloss.


For high-traffic areas and maximum durability, varnish is your go-to. We offer Extra Strong Indoor Wood Varnish and Quick Dry Floor Varnish - each designed with toughness and finish flexibility in mind.

Extra Strong Indoor Wood Varnish

Great for - Furniture and shelving, Banisters and kitchen tables, Craft projects and decorative pieces
Why choose it? Strong, surface-level protection, Low odour and quick drying, Available in Matt, Satin or Gloss

How to use:

  • Stir well before applying
  • Apply evenly with a good quality brush, working along the grain
  • Allow 2–4 hours to dry between coats
  • Rub back gently before the final coat with fine a fine abrasive

Quick Dry Floor Varnish

Great for - Wooden floors, Staircases
Why choose it? Specifically formulated for floors, Dries fast - walkable in just a few hours, Available in Matt or Satin

How to use:

  • Apply thin, even coats with a good quality brush, applicator pad or roller
  • Apply a diluted base coat, followed by three full coats
  • Leave 2–4 hours between coats
  • Lightly sand the surface with 120 grit ‘wet and dry’ abrasive paper before applying the final coat

💡 Top tip: This varnish is tough enough for busy homes, pets, and regular cleaning - while still being easy to apply.

Wax polish offers a soft, traditional finish and is perfect for projects that don’t need heavy-duty protection. Our Water Repellent Wax Polish combines classic charm with light moisture resistance.

Water Repellent Wax Polish

Great for - Picture frames, Shelves and display units, Antique or vintage furniture
Why choose it? Creates a soft sheen and nourished look, Water-repellent formula gives light protection, Easy to top up or reapply over time

How to use:

  • Apply with a soft cotton cloth or brush
  • Leave for around an hour
  • Buff with a clean cloth in between each coat for a gentle shine
  • Apply more layers for greater sheen

Not Sure What to Choose?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Your Goal

Product to Use

Protect a kitchen worktop

Superior Worktop Oil

Add warmth and depth to furniture

Superior Danish Oil

Varnish a floor or high-use furniture

Quick Dry Floor Varnish

Give shelves a hard-wearing finish

Extra Strong Indoor Varnish

Add a soft, traditional finish to décor

Water Repellent Wax Polish

Still unsure? Our team is happy to help you choose based on your wood type, location and what kind of finish you want to achieve.

Finish Strong With Confidence

You’ve put time and care into prepping and staining — now it’s time to seal the deal. Explore our full Wood Finishing Collection to find the perfect product to protect and enhance your wood.

Need help with application? Our How To Guides offer step-by-step advice to help you get the best results.

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