These strippers are notoriously harsh, butnewer formulations and natural ingredientshave dialed back some of the more caustic elements.

Learn how to use various types of paint strippers for wood with the following steps.

However, these can be incredibly dangerous if not used correctly.

removing paint from the floor with a hot air gun repair tools

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Sandpaper

Sandpaper will remove paint through abrasion.

Start with a coarse 80-grit sandpaper to get the initial coat off.

Work your way up to 220-grit sandpaper as you get to the final coats.

Materials needed to strip paint from wood

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

However, heated paint aerosolizes and can become a harmful vapor.

This method is also risky because the wood may catch fire or burn.

Steam Stripper

A steam stripper uses water vapor to soften paint.

Applying paint stripper to wood surface

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Infrared Devices

An infrared rig heats paint at a low and slow rate.

Safety Considerations

Undertake this project in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.

Wear gloves, a mask, safety glasses, an apron, and protective clothing before beginning.

Using sandpaper to sand paint off of wood

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Do not attempt this project in open-toed shoes or shorts.

You might want to sand the wood if it has a glossy sheen so the new paint adheres easily.

However, all paint needs to be sanded off of wood that will be stained.

Using a heat gun to strip off paint

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Steps to Lead Safe Renovation, Repair and Painting.EPA.

Stripping off paint with steam strippers

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Stripping off paint with an infrared device

The Spruce / Kevin Norris