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9 Best Wood Wax of 2023 [Reviewed & Buyer’s Guide]

If you want to keep woodenware in top shape, you have made the right decision by choosing to read this exhaustive review on wood waxes.

Man polish a wood. Worker with polishing machine.

We have handpicked the 10 best wood waxes available this year here in a review, that is detailed, and informative and helps you decide what to buy for your home interiors.

Find more support in a buyer’s guide that highlights the categories of wood and other material that might be needing your attention. Make it worth your while before you go shopping for the perfect wax to polish those wooden surfaces clean and new!

So, let’s get started, shall we?

Best Wood Waxes 

Senior carpenter craftsman polishing violin instrument in his carpenter's workshop.

Whether you're working on a new woodworking project or restoring an old piece, using the right wood wax can make all the difference. To help you make an informed decision, here's the list of the 9 best wood waxes available in the market.

1. Walrus Oil Wood Wax - Best for Natural Ingredients

This wood wax is made of coconut oil, beeswax, mineral oil, and Vitamin E. All these natural ingredients blend to give a powerful cleansing and polishing agent. It is a tough cleanser, and the polishing elements of this wood wax can bring a glow to the dullest wooden surface.

Why Did We Like It?

This wood wax is a one-stop solution to all the dirt, grime, grease, and dullness accumulated in your house. All that needs to be done is adding the wax to the surface, and buffing it well for any object to start glowing again.

That’s not all; the coconut oil mixed in the wood wax acts as a cleansing agent, while Vitamin E helps keep the product fresh so that it lasts long. Vitamin E is also good for the skin, so this wood wax is safe and healthy to use.

Moving on. putting a small blob of wood wax on any wooden surface is more than enough to clean and polish it fully, reducing wastage to a minimum. It can be used with other products, or as a tough stand-alone cleaning and polishing agent.

What Could've Been Better?

This wood wax is useful for state-of-the-art cutting boards that may require repeated applications after a short time. The effects of buffing on cutting boards tend to wear off in some time, and may not be useful for those looking for more long-lasting solutions.



Pros

  • Gives extra protection from moisture
  • Can seal the wood from staining
  • Brings richness to coloured wooden crafts
  • Great cleansing agent




Cons

  • Lasts for a short while



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 3 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Cloth

2. Minwax 785004444 Finishing Wax - Best for Versatile Applications

This finishing wax can be applied with a piece of cloth. It can be used on wooden cabinets, doors, antiques, woodwork, furniture, panelling, and wooden accessories that do not need a hard coat of polyurethane. Polyurethane is essentially used to protect different kinds of wooden surfaces.

Minwax 785004444 Paste Finishing Wax, 1-Pound, Natural
  • WOOD PASTE – Minwax Paste Finishing Wax protects & adds...
  • EASY TO USE – It’s quick and easy to use this wood...

Why Did We Like It?

The finishing wax leaves a nice polished look on any wooden surface. It is especially used with chalk paint to maintain and seal wooden surfaces. The buffing can be done 10-15 minutes after the wax has been coated onto a surface and has dried up.

We like that raw wood needs only 2 coats of this wax, whereas a coated surface can make do with just 1 coat of the finishing wax. This wax particularly adds beauty and durability to your wooden products.

So, if you want to use it on bare metal, you would have to coat the metal more than once in a while to keep the rust off. It works very well with black colour and adds a creamy tone to antiques and other embellishments at home.

What Could've Been Better?

The finishing wax can be used for several tasks to keep your wooden objects in good shape. It can be used on practically all kinds of painted surfaces except white ones. The wax tends to add an amber tint to white-painted wood. This is especially true of bright white-coloured wood.



Pros

  • Stains wood
  • Cleans and repairs wood
  • Protects finished wooden surfaces
  • Adds lustre to any wooden surface




Cons

  • Adds colour to white-painted wood



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 16 oz | Food-grade: No | Application Method: Cloth

3. CuttingBoard Wax and Conditioner - Best for Revitalizing Wood

This wax and conditioner is a blend of natural beeswax, Brazilian Carnauba wax, and also USP-grade mineral oil. It seals cutting boards safely with one application and revitalizes their health with its natural ingredients.

CLARK'S Cutting Board Finish Wax, Enriched with Lemon &...
  • Preserving Your Cutting Boards: After applying CLARK' S oil,...
  • Premium Natural Ingredients: CLARK' S cutting board wood wax...

Why Did We Like It?

The wax is safe to handle, easy to use, and can be applied with a simple cloth. It can be used to restore all kinds of wood. It can be used for teak, walnut, acacia, and oak wood. Hickory, Sapele and cherry can also be polished with this fine wax. 

Also, several kinds of wood such as bamboo, pine, mahogany, olive etc. can benefit from the rich waxing and conditioning mechanisms of this product. This wax can be tested over a small area of the wood, as the coating darkens after application. 

This would give you a good idea of the effects, finishing and appearance. It is also known to put a great finish on cutting boards and wooden spoons alike. Moreover, the boards do not stain and are far easier to clean after an application. Finally, it brings the grain of the wood out and lends the board a sheen. 

What’s great about this product is that it can also help prevent staining, and cover up knife scarring. The wax makes cleaning a lot easier on the hands as well.

What Could've Been Better?

The buying price of this finishing wax and conditioner could have been more reasonable. It offers a range of maintenance and revival solutions. But the overall performance of the product is not commensurate with its market rate.

This could be a huge dent in its popularity, which is bound to escalate given its strong features.



Pros

  • Helps prevents staining
  • Covers up knife scarring
  • Makes cleaning easier
  • Simple and easy to apply




Cons

  • Steep pricing



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 6 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Applicator

4. Howard WAX009 Food-Grade Wax

This wax is made of mineral oil, Carnauba wax, and beeswax. The mineral oil comes with a  food-grade assurance. The product locks in the oil and waxes of the brand’s other food-grade items used on surfaces or objects. This wax is safe to use on many materials - wood, paint, plastics, stone, cement, metal, etc.

Sale
Howard Products WAX009 Food-Grade Wax, 9 Ounce (Pack of 1),...
  • Enhances beauty and protects surfaces to make them look...
  • Easy to Use - simply rub the wax on, let it absorb and buff...

Why Did We Like It?

This food-grade wax gives any surface a smooth feel and a soft sheen after an application or so. It also saves bronze, brass, copper, and even wrought iron objects from oxidation and tarnishing. This is what prevents the early decay of your metal objects and helps them last longer.

Also quite easy to use, you just have to rub the wax onto any surface and leave it for some time. Buffing the excess makes the object shine brighter, and your job is done! Your surfaces and objects are protected to look better, and their beauty is enhanced to give your home the ideal look.

Moreover, woodworkers may find this food-grade wax extremely useful for a hard Carnauba wax finish to their wood projects.

What Could've Been Better?

The wax can be spread easily but is difficult to handle beyond that. When the surface or object is moderately well-sealed, this wax tends to misbehave. The mineral oil does not soak in, which leaves an oily layer on the surface even after leaving the application to dry for 24 hours.



Pros

  • Enhances the beauty of different surfaces
  • Protects surfaces
  • Easy to use and buff
  • Soft finishing with a smooth sheen




Cons

  • Soft and oily to touch



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 9 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Cloth

5. Trewax 887101016 Paste Wax

This paste wax includes one of the best long-term finishing agents in its blend of special ingredients. The Brazilian Carnauba natural wax is known for giving great durability to the finishing of a surface. That is the world’s hardest natural wax and forms the prime component in Trewax Paste Wax.

Sale
Trewax Paste Wax with Carnauba Wax, Clear, 12.35-Ounce,...
  • Furniture Polish - Trewax Paste Wax with Carnauba wax...
  • Contains Brazilian Carnauba Wax - Trewax Paste Wax contains...

Why Did We Like It?

This paste wax can protect outdoor surfaces and objects in your home environment from wind, rain, heat and snow. It can also protect your handy toolbox with chisels, blades and hammers from wear and tear.

Secondly, it can be used to varnish the wood with a light coat without waiting too much for the wax to dry out. Woodworkers with outdoor workshops might find this wax to be particularly useful in reducing friction for hand-plane blades.

Overall, the paste wax serves a range of minute tasks at home and in your workshops. It makes a great product for an enthusiast willing to experiment with the paste wax and its applications by learning through the articles, tutorials and videos available online.

Finally, this is a colourless paste wax that can be used to seal stone products quite well.

What Could've Been Better?

This wax gives a great finish to all your floors, surfaces and furniture and can be used once annually to refresh the coating. However, ensuring that the application gives a perfect finish can be a bit cumbersome. The wax has to be left to dry for several hours before anyone can walk on a floor or touch an object covered by it.

Careful management at home may be required to get your waxing correct in one go.



Pros

  • Works great on hard surfaces
  • Restores original sheen to many surfaces
  • Dries quickly
  • Non-slip wax product




Cons

  • Wax has to dry for hours before it sets completely



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 12.35 oz | Food-grade: No | Application Method: Cloth

6. Daddy Van's 100 Beeswax

This product is made of pure unrefined beeswax, Carnauba wax, and the finest natural ingredients that nourish, protect and revive wood. The beeswax is odourless and has no artificial fragrances added to its blend. It is perfect for your family and keeps your home safe and healthy.

Daddy Van's All Natural Unscented Beeswax Furniture Polish -...
  • MAKE ALL THE WOOD IN YOUR HOME BEAUTIFUL AGAIN – Natural...
  • FOOD SAFE AND BABY SAFE – Our non-toxic ingredients create...

Why Did We Like It?

All you have to do is use a soft cloth to rub a small amount of wax onto any surface. This task has to be done in a circular motion. Then buff with a clean and dry cotton cloth. The surface will have a healthy glow at once, shining bright as new.

And yes, it is safe to do as many applications as are required on your wooden surfaces and products from this beeswax. Daddy Van’s is a USDA Certified Biobased blend of wood-nourishing and food-safe ingredients.

This means that it is free from harmful chemicals and assures that your family and home are safe and protected always. It also nourishes your furniture and wood leaving them healthy and glowing with every application.

What Could've Been Better?

This beeswax can polish your wood efficiently but it will not go as far as filling any scratches on surfaces and other objects. It can, at best, make scratches less visible but cannot completely obliterate them.

To fill scratches, you might have to use paint and then coat it with an application of this beeswax to keep the colour safe.



Pros

  • Protects finished and unfinished wood products
  • Revives different wood surfaces and objects
  • Food-safe for kitchen use
  • Baby-safe for use on cribs




Cons

  • Does not fill scratches on wood



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 6 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Cloth

7. Odie’s Oil Geeloa

Odie’s Oil is easy to wipe on a surface to bring sheen and polish to it instantly. Just wait a while after a coating and then buff the surface to get your results! Unlike the conventional wood finish, there is no need for sanding or stripping in between coats, even for retouching.

Odie's Oil • Universal Finish for Wood • Leather •...
  • If youre looking for a wood finish that not only looks...

Why Did We Like It?

It can be used as a regular wood polish for your home and projects. It has a range of applications for both domestic and exotic wood. Polishing, cleaning, protecting and special utilisation as friction polish - all are part of this product’s repertoire.

An added advantage is that this oil has no driers or toxic chemicals and agents. The food-safe assurance increases the product’s normal safety range. Great for any household, and especially for woodworkers, who would appreciate the 30 years of R&D that have gone into this product!

Moreover, the oil has no solvents. What you put on the wood stays there and there is negligible evaporation. The best part, it comes in a 9 oz reusable glass jar, is environment-friendly and can cover up to 20 times the area of conventional wood finishes.

What Could've Been Better?

The oil has its benefits on daily use wood, and even new wood projects can be nourished with this product. But the most detailed planned and organised woodworking project might not be able to gain from this oil when it comes to finishing touches.

This is because thorough Odie Oil guidelines have to be followed to bring the best results to professional woodwork, and other such projects.



Pros

  • Universal oil for polishing many surfaces
  • Easy to use
  • Food-safe
  • Non-toxic wood finish




Cons

  • May not satisfy woodworking pros



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 9 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Cloth

8. Interstate Woodworks Beeswax

This wax is a blend of natural beeswax and mineral oil and is perfectly safe to use on surfaces, objects and projects at home and in your workshop. The beeswax brings life back into old wood surfaces. It doubles up as a great metal polish and increases the shelf life of different surfaces and products at home.

Interstate WoodWorks Beeswax Paste Wood Finish & Polish -...
  • Interstate Beeswax is an All Natural, Wood Finish, Wood...
  • Each jar is Hand Mixed in Small Batches to ensure the...

Why Did We Like It?

It is known as 'body lotion for wood' and can revive all those really old wood finishes that you want to put back for display in your house. It can also be applied easily to various kinds of wood and metal objects. The special formula penetrates wood and metal well and also dries up quickly.

So, when you buff the object it lends a soft, velvety sheen to it, which feels like a warm glow. Secondly, it can serve as the perfect finish for cutting boards, bowls, wooden spoons, or woodworking projects. Finally, it comes in a 6.25 oz container that will last you a long time, depending on your need and the number of applications.

The best part about this beeswax is that you can use it in your kitchen! For example, waxing the countertops with this wax can provide great protection, even as your daily chopping, kneading, cooking, etc. remain unaffected. And it comes with a food-safe assurance that will keep your kitchen healthy.

What Could've Been Better?

There could be a lack of lustre experience for oakwood surfaces, furniture, and projects made from such material. Even if you follow the instructions minutely, you might get results that disappoint, although they may vary from case to case.

Also, if you are trying to cover marks on your oakwood, that might not come to fruition in some applications.



Pros

  • All-natural wax
  • Non-toxic ingredients
  • Revives old wood finishes
  • Also serves as a metal polish




Cons

  • May need a careful application on oakwood



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 6.25 oz | Food-grade: No | Application Method: Cloth

9. ZBD Goods Beeswax

This beeswax is safe when it comes to touch with food. The Carnauba wax in the mixture dries to a glossy finish and is extremely durable. The tung oil seals an object against water. It also remains unaffected by alcohol or acetone. Thus, this beeswax gives your household protection, renovation and durability against moisture and other elements.

ZBD GOODS Z's Wood Nectar All Natural Beeswax Furniture...
  • IMPROVE YOUR FURNITURE’S APPEARANCE - Are you staring at...
  • MULTI-USAGE - Butcher block countertop, wooden cutting...

Why Did We Like It?

This all-natural beeswax improves your old wood and other furniture by restoring its look and sheen. You can use it not only on your big wooden sofa set, but other items like a precious jewellery box to revive its old lustre.

All its ingredients are organic and non-toxic in this beeswax. Made of tung oil, beeswax and Carnauba wax, this mixture is great for the safety and health of your family and home. Best of all, it is handmade by a person who claims to have started producing it in his wife’s kitchen!

Reliable and made with care, it is easy to apply to your products. This beeswax will also serve all your cleaning and polishing purposes well. It can seal and protect the surfaces of your furniture and other goods, especially from sunlight and moisture.

What Could've Been Better?

The beeswax ensures the safety and revival of wooden furniture and products at home. However, even a double application of this beeswax may not be able to remove marks or blemishes on all objects. It can add a shine though, that can reduce the visibility of any damage to your objects.



Pros

  • All-natural beeswax
  • Non-toxic tung oil
  • Protects raw wood
  • Improves furniture’s appearance




Cons

  • May not remove scars, marks or wood blemishes



Finish Type: Natural | Size: 6 oz | Food-grade: Yes | Application Method: Cloth

Best Wood Waxes Comparison Table

ProductFinish TypeSizeFood-GradeApplication Method
Walrus Oil Wood WaxNatural3 ozYesCloth
Minwax 785004444 Finishing WaxNatural16 ozNoCloth
CuttingBoard Wax and ConditionerNatural6 ozYesApplicator
Howard WAX009 Food-Grade WaxNatural9 ozYesCloth
Trewax 887101016 Paste WaxNatural12.35 ozNoCloth
Daddy Van’s 100 BeeswaxNatural6 ozYesCloth
Odie’s Oil GeeloaNatural9 ozYesCloth
Interstate Woodworks BeeswaxNatural6.25 ozNoCloth
ZBD Goods BeeswaxNatural6 ozYesCloth

Buying Guide For The Best Wood Wax

While you were going through our succinct reviews of the 9 best wood waxes of 2023, you might have pondered some questions. What was the primary concern of the house or the workshop that prompted you to search for a waxing product?

It could be anything - from increasing the lifespan of your wooden bowl or removing dirt from an old table. You might even want to make some of your objects water-resistant at home.

It can be worrying that a kitchen cabinet has moisture trapped in its panels. Or that a cutting board has rough edges you want to smoothen out. Can all these utility products in the kitchen be waxed? After all, they are used to preserve and make your food.

These are some questions that might arise and more. We have sought answers for you, and in our informative buyer’s guide below to help you make a good decision.

Wooden furniture, kitchen maintenance, antiques and decorative embellishments, wooden, metal and other projects and special surfaces are some essential categories that could be needing your ‘waxing’ attention.

  1. Wooden Furniture

Almost all the qualities of wooden furniture - durability, sheen, colour, texture and appearance- can be transformed entirely when you get the right wax for the wooden mainstay and the accessories in your house.

A wax jar is an all-purpose solution for your wooden furniture at home.

  1. Kitchen Maintenance

A whole host of kitchenware, cutlery and storage equipment is almost always wooden. There are several food-safe waxes reviewed here that can protect and restore your kitchen. You can choose from special beeswax, or buy wax that is a daily use affair.

  1. Antiques, Decorative Embellishments

Old items and carefully curated objects in the house require special attention. Despite being the most precious embellishments at home, they can ironically be neglected for longer than their lustrous lifespan.

Hard waxes, natural beeswax, and particular oils are all combined these days in wax jars to give you desired results. Buy wax for your precious objects at home and watch them glow again.

  1. Wooden, Metal and Other Projects

Garage workshops, makeshift wood workshops, carpentry projects running from home and professional wood projects are usually an extension of the home. Wax manufacturers have combined many organic ingredients to give multi-purpose solutions to both home and workshop requirements.

Higher-grade professional projects may need more sophisticated waxing agents, some have even been produced from a home kitchen to give quality-grade waxing at home, and outdoors.

You have plenty to choose from in our detailed review of wood waxes.

  1. Special Surfaces, Objects and Equipment

Wood may largely be the main preoccupation of health and maintenance for the average household, but waxing can also help revive metals and other materials. Brass, copper, iron, and various species of wood, are all commonly found at home. They can also be protected and cleaned at home itself.

Wood Waxes FAQ's

  • What is wood wax?

    Wood wax is a type of finish made from a combination of natural waxes, oils, and sometimes resins. It is used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood surfaces.

  • What are the benefits of using wood wax?

    Wood wax provides several benefits, including enhancing the natural beauty of wood, adding a protective layer against moisture and wear, creating a smooth and lustrous finish, and offering a natural and non-toxic option for wood finishing.

  • How do I apply wood wax?

    To apply wood wax, start by preparing the wood surface by sanding it smooth and removing any dust. Then, using a clean cloth or brush, apply the wax in thin, even coats, following the wood grain. Allow the wax to penetrate and dry, and then buff the surface to achieve the desired shine.

  • Can wood wax be used on all types of wood?

    Yes, wood wax can generally be used on all types of wood, including hardwoods and softwoods. However, it’s always recommended to check the product instructions and test the wax on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.

  • How often should I reapply wood wax?

    The frequency of reapplication depends on factors such as the type of wood, the level of wear and tear, and the specific wax product used. As a general guideline, it’s advisable to reapply wood wax every 6 to 12 months or as needed to maintain the desired level of protection and appearance.

  • Can wood wax be used on painted or stained wood surfaces?

    Wood wax is primarily designed for use on bare or unfinished wood surfaces. It may not adhere well to painted or stained wood and may not provide the same level of protection. It’s recommended to consult the product instructions or consult with a professional if you intend to use wax on painted or stained wood.

  • How does wood wax differ from other wood finishes like varnish or polyurethane?

    Wood wax differs from other finishes like varnish or polyurethane in terms of appearance, application method, and level of protection. Wax creates a softer, more natural-looking finish and requires periodic reapplication. Varnish or polyurethane, on the other hand, provide a harder, more durable finish but may alter the wood’s natural appearance.

  • Can wood wax be used outdoors?

    Wood wax is primarily designed for indoor use and may not provide sufficient protection against outdoor elements. If you need to protect wood surfaces outdoors, it’s recommended to use a specifically formulated outdoor wood sealer or finish.

  • Can wood wax be used on furniture with existing finishes?

    Wood wax can be applied to furniture with existing finishes, but it may not adhere well to certain finishes or create a consistent appearance. It’s advisable to test the wax on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility and desired results.

  • Conclusion

    The 9 best wood waxes of 2022 reviewed here can turn your home around into a brand new place! Choose from our selection of natural and organic waxes to bring out the texture and colours of your home.

    With just a touch of the Walrus Oil Woodwax, your wooden surfaces and objects will regain their old lustre. The Minwax 785004444 Finishing Wax will add beauty and longevity to your wood and metal objects.

    Keep your home healthy and glowing with Daddy Van’s 100 Beeswax. It is a USDA Certified Biobased blend of wood-nourishing and food-safe ingredients.

    Apart from these, the Interstate Woodworks Beeswax has a quick-drying agent and can give a soft, velvety sheen to all your furniture, kitchen products, and wood projects.

    Till next time, take care!

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