Which Preparation Product You Should Choose

Here’s the scenario… you’ve found the perfect wood, you’ve finalised your project design, and sanded to a 150 grit – now it’s time to oil. However, you may find yourself asking… what happens now?

One of the most important aspects of the oiling process is preparation. We often get asked what’s the next step between sanding and applying our Oil Plus 2C – and it is a vital one. Good preparation will help you get the most out of your oil.

The Importance of Preparation

Whether you oil the components before putting them together, or apply the oil once the project is assembled, we’ve got the perfect preparation products for you.

At Rubio Monocoat, we have three preparation options for indoor projects: Cleaner, WoodPrep and Tannin Primer. Each product has its own benefits, so choosing the right one depends on your project, the wood type and the finish you’re after.

Please note: all of these preparation products are for indoor use only.

Cleaner – It Does What It Says on the Tin

Cleaner is the most straightforward preparation product and is ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Its main purpose is to remove sanding dust before oiling, which is essential for a clean and even finish.

You definitely don’t want any sanding residue mixing in when you apply Oil Plus 2C.

How to use Cleaner

• Sand and vacuum the surface properly.
• Clean the surface with Cleaner.
• Allow the wood to dry until it regains its original appearance.

Drying time can range from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much product was used.

Bonus tip: Cleaner can also be used to wash tools that have come into contact with oil. Just remember: all oil-soaked pads and rags must be soaked in water first and then sealed in an airtight bag or bin before disposal.

WoodPrep – More Like WoodPop

Looking for extra colour intensity? WoodPrep is your go-to product. Like Cleaner, it removes sanding dust, but it also minimises sanding errors and small surface scratches.

Its main advantage is that it improves pigment absorption, intensifying the final oil colour. Think deeper charcoals, richer reds and more pronounced tones overall – especially useful for darker colours.

How to use WoodPrep

• Thoroughly vacuum the surface.
• Apply WoodPrep evenly using a sponge, ensuring no untreated spots are left.
• Wipe lengthwise in the direction of the wood grain using a Rubio Monocoat Microfiber Pad.
• Allow the surface to dry completely until it looks and feels evenly dry.
• Apply Oil Plus 2C.

Tannin Primer – Say Goodbye to Dark Rings

Some wood types – especially oak – contain tannins that can rise to the surface when exposed to moisture, creating dark rings or stains. These tannins are naturally occurring acids found in the sap of the tree.

Rubio Monocoat Tannin Primer is designed to block these tannins before oiling, preventing them from bleeding through the finish. It is most effective on oak, chestnut, red cedar and teak.

How to use Tannin Primer

• Sand the surface scratch-free and remove all dust thoroughly.
• Apply Tannin Primer with a brush, roller or spray (approx. 50 g/m²).
• Even out with a cloth in the direction of the boards to avoid puddles.
• Allow to dry completely.
• Lightly remove raised fibres using a beige scrubby.
• Wipe down and apply your chosen Rubio Monocoat finishing oil.

Bonus Tip

To fully control tannin issues, pair Tannin Primer with our Tannin Remover. Together, they prevent and remove dark rings on oiled wood surfaces. Simply apply the remover, wait a few minutes, and watch the stain disappear.