Minwax Wipe-On Poly is an oil-based polyurethane you rub on with a cloth instead of brushing. Minwax says it gives a hard, clear finish with a classic hand-rubbed look and protects wood against water, household chemicals, food stains and wear, with no drips or brush marks to chase. It is made for interior wood such as furniture, cabinets, trim, doors and woodwork. We carry it in clear gloss and clear satin, in pints and quarts. Everything on this page comes from Minwax's product data sheet, product page and product guide.
Wipe-On Poly sizes we carry
Specs from Minwax
| Use on |
Interior wood: furniture, cabinets, woodwork, trim and doors. Not for refinishing floors. |
| Coverage |
About 62 sq ft per pint (about 125 sq ft per quart) |
| Coats |
2 to 3 |
| Recoat |
After 2 to 3 hours |
| Normal use |
Let the final coat dry 24 hours (overnight) before normal use |
| Sheen |
Satin (35 +/- 5 at 60°) or Gloss (90 minimum at 60°) |
| Resin and cleanup |
Linseed oil-modified polyurethane in mineral spirits; clean up with mineral spirits or paint thinner |
| VOC and flash point |
600 g/L maximum; flash point above 101°F (combustible) |
How to apply it
The wood must be dry and free of lacquer, shellac, wax, grease and polish. Sand with 220-grit paper. If you stained first, let the stain dry completely (24 hours) before the first coat. Shake the can, put a small amount on a clean, soft, lint-free cotton cloth and rub it into the wood. Let it dry at least 2 to 3 hours, sand lightly with 220-grit paper or fine steel wool, remove the dust and wipe on the next coat. Repeat for a third coat if you want more build, then let it dry overnight before use.
Minwax notes the finish ambers slightly, which can change the look of white or pastel stains and light woods. For those, Minwax points to water-based Polycrylic. For larger jobs you would rather brush, see Fast-Drying Polyurethane.
Shop related: all Minwax, Minwax Wood Finish stain, PolyShades, and every brand in polyurethane.
FAQ
Can I put Wipe-On Poly over stain?
Yes. Minwax says to follow the stain label and let the stain dry completely, 24 hours, before wiping on the first coat.
Do I sand between coats?
Yes. After each coat dries 2 to 3 hours, Minwax says to sand lightly with very fine 220-grit sandpaper or fine steel wool and remove the dust before the next coat.
Can I use it on floors?
Minwax's data sheet rates Wipe-On Poly for interior wood except floors. Its product guide says the thin film can touch up small worn or scratched spots on a floor, but for new or refinished floors Minwax points to its floor polyurethanes.
Satin or gloss?
Satin gives a soft, low sheen; gloss gives a bright, reflective shine. Both come in pints and quarts and apply the same way.
How much do I need?
Minwax lists about 62 sq ft per pint per coat. Measure the surface, multiply by the number of coats (2 to 3), and divide by 62 for pints or about 125 for quarts.
Can I return it?
Flammable liquids like this oil-based topcoat can't be returned under our refund policy, so check the sheen and size before you order. If it arrives damaged, defective or wrong, email Store@projectweekenddiy.com with photos and we will make it right.
Shipping is $5.99 on orders under $35 and free on orders of $35 or more, to the lower 48 states and DC (shipping policy).
Sources: Minwax Wipe-On Poly technical data sheet (Minwax PDS for 027426609105, dated 04/07), Minwax Wipe-On Poly product page and the Minwax Product Guide.
