Staining Oak Vanity Units with Rubio Monocoat Stain

Oak is a popular and versatile wood  used for a huge range of furnishings across the home, including bathroom vanity units. Oak vanity units can add a touch of natural beauty and warmth to your bathroom, as well as provide ample storage space and functionality.

However, to make the most of your oak vanity unit, you may want to stain it to enhance its colour, appearance, and durability. In this blog post, we will show you how and why to stain your oak vanity unit with Rubio Monocoat stain, and give you some tips and tricks to achieve the best results.

Why Stain Your Oak Vanity Unit?

Staining your oak vanity unit can have several benefits, such as:

• Improving the colour and contrast of the wood. Oak has a light and neutral colour that can look bland or washed out in some settings. Staining can add depth and richness to the wood, as well as bring out its natural grain and texture. You can choose from a variety of stain colours to suit your preference and style, from dark and dramatic to light and subtle.
• Protecting the wood from damage and wear. Oak is a durable and resilient wood, but it can still be affected by moisture, stains, scratches, or dents over time. Staining can create a protective layer on the surface of the wood, making it more resistant to water, spills, dirt, or abrasion. Staining can also prevent the wood from fading and discolouration due to sunlight or heat exposure.
• Customising your vanity unit to match your bathroom decor. Staining can help you create a unique and personalised look for your vanity unit, as well as coordinate it with the rest of your bathroom furniture and accessories. You can stain your vanity unit to match or contrast with your wall colour, floor tiles, countertops, or fixtures. You can also create different effects with staining, such as antique, rustic, or modern.

We use Rubio Monocoat stain, which is a brand of wood oil products that offer an innovative way of colouring and protecting wood, both inside and out. Rubio Monocoat uses a revolutionary technology that bonds with the wood fibres at a molecular level, creating a durable and eco-friendly finish. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and features of Rubio Monocoat stain, and how to use it for all your wood-related DIY projects.

The Benefits of Rubio Monocoat Stain

Rubio Monocoat has several benefits over conventional wood finishes, such as:

• It is easy to apply. Rubio Monocoat stain can be applied in one single layer, saving you time and money. You don’t need to sand or prime the wood before applying the oil, and you don’t need to apply multiple coats or topcoats afterwards. You can use a cloth, a brush, a roller, or a spray to apply the oil, depending on the size and shape of your project.
• It is economical. Rubio Monocoat oil has a very low consumption rate, meaning you only need a small amount of oil to cover a large surface area. One litre of oil can cover up to 50 square metres of wood, depending on the type and condition of the wood. You also don’t need to buy any additional products, such as primers, sealers, or varnishes, to complete your project.
• It is durable. Rubio Monocoat stain creates a strong and long-lasting bond with the wood fibres, protecting the wood from water, stains, scratches, or dents. The oil also has UV inhibitors that prevent the wood from fading or discolouration due to sunlight exposure. The oil does not form a film on the surface of the wood, so it does not crack or peel over time.
• It is ecological. Rubio Monocoat oil is made from natural ingredients, such as plant-based oils and waxes. It does not contain any harmful solvents, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), or formaldehyde, making it safe for your health and the environment. The oil also has a pleasant smell and does not emit any toxic fumes during or after application.

The Features of Rubio Monocoat Stain

Rubio Monocoat has several features that make it stand out from other wood finishes, such as:

• It has a wide range of colours. Rubio offers more than 50 colours of oil to choose from, allowing you to create any look or style you want for your wood project. You can also mix different colours of oil to create your own custom shade. The colours are transparent and natural, enhancing the beauty and grain of the wood without masking it.
• It has a unique effect. Rubio Monocoat stain has a unique effect on the wood, as it reacts differently with each wood species and each wood grain. This means that no two pieces of wood will look the same after applying the oil, giving your project a distinctive and authentic character.
• It has a matte finish. Monocoat oil has a matte finish that gives the timber a smooth and soft touch. The matte finish also reduces glare and reflections on the surface, creating a more comfortable and cosier atmosphere in your space.

Using Rubio Monocoat Stain

Using Rubio Monocoat wood stain is simple and straightforward, if you follow these steps:

• Prepare your work area. Choose a well-ventilated and dust-free area to work on your project. Cover the floor and surrounding surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheets to protect them from oil spills. Remove any hardware or accessories from your project, such as knobs, hinges, faucets, or sinks.
• Clean the surface of the wood. Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove any dirt, grease, or old finish from the wood surface. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let the wood dry completely.
• Apply the oil of your choice. Use a lint-free cloth or a paintbrush to apply the oil of your choice on the surface of the wood in thin and even coats. Follow the instructions on your Monocoat product for the best application method and drying time. You can use a gel stain for a thicker and more consistent coverage, or a liquid stain for a thinner and more transparent coverage. You can also mix different colours of Rubio Monocoat stain to create your own custom shade.
• Wipe off any excess oil. Use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess oil from the wood surface before it dries. This will prevent any drips or runs on the wood surface and ensure a smooth and uniform finish.
• Let the oil cure properly according to the instructions on your Rubio Monocoat stain product. This may take up to 24 hours or more depending on the type of oil, and the environmental conditions. Do not expose the wood to water or heat during this time.
• Enjoy your finished project. Once the oil is fully cured, you can enjoy your finished project. You can reattach any hardware or accessories to your project and use it as normal. You can also apply a protective sealant on top of the oil if you want to enhance the durability and water resistance of your project.

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about staining oak with Rubio Monocoat stain, and how to use it for your wood projects. If you need more inspiration or information, you can browse a wide range of Rubio Monocoat products, colours, tutorials, and projects, here on our website.

Need More Inspiration?

Check out our Instagram page @parkerhowley_n_co for stunning bathroom design inspiration from our real life customers!

Seen something you like the look of? Want to talk through your options? Give our team a call on 0333 444 0406. We’re happy to help.