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10 Best Tung Oils For Wood 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

HOPE'S 100% Pure Tung Oil, Food Safe, Premium Waterproof Natural Wood Finish and Sealer for Indoor and Outdoor Projects,16 Fl Oz, 1 Pack

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,223
Finish
Ease of Application

Most important from
3577 reviews

Finish
Multiple coats are necessary for a nice satin finish, and surface preparation is crucial.
Ease of Application
Application is straightforward and the product does not have an unpleasant odor.

HOPE'S 100% Pure Tung Oil offers an impressive natural wood finish that is both food safe and waterproof, making it ideal for a range of indoor and outdoor projects. Its purity is a standout feature, as it is made from premium oil pressed from the finest Tung nuts, ensuring a high-quality finish. The oil's ability to penetrate deep into wood fibers and cure to a flexible, non-oily solid sets it apart from other wood finishes that merely sit on the surface.

This deep penetration provides lasting protection against moisture, alcohol, oil, and daily wear, making it suitable for high-traffic areas and food contact surfaces like cutting boards and butcher blocks. The finish it provides is beautiful and durable, maintaining the wood's natural look while enhancing its grain and color. However, users should be aware that tung oil generally has a longer drying time compared to other finishes, often requiring several days to fully cure. This can be a downside for those looking for a quick project turnaround.

Additionally, the application is straightforward but requires patience, as multiple coats may be necessary to achieve the desired finish. Each coat needs to be wiped on and allowed to cure at room temperature, which may not be ideal for those in humid or cold environments where drying times could be extended. HOPE'S 100% Pure Tung Oil is an excellent choice for those seeking a natural, durable, and food-safe wood finish, though it requires time and patience for application and curing.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,223
Finish
Ease of Application

Most important from
3577 reviews

Finish
Multiple coats are necessary for a nice satin finish, and surface preparation is crucial.
Ease of Application
Application is straightforward and the product does not have an unpleasant odor.
#2

HOPE'S 100% Pure Tung Oil, Food Safe, Premium Waterproof Natural Wood Finish and Sealer for Indoor and Outdoor Projects, 32 Fl Oz, 1 Pack

Rating
9.8
Finish

Most important from
3266 reviews

Finish
Pours out like honey and gives a shiny gloss but not a plastic-like finish.

HOPE'S 100% Pure Tung Oil is an excellent choice for those looking to treat and protect their wood surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. One of its key strengths is its purity, as it is made from premium Tung nuts, ensuring a high-quality treatment. The oil penetrates deeply into the wood fibers, rather than forming a film on top, which allows for a durable and flexible finish that becomes part of the wood itself.

This contributes to its strong water resistance, making it suitable for areas exposed to moisture, such as countertops and cutting boards. Additionally, it is food safe once dry, making it ideal for kitchen use on items like butcher blocks and wooden utensils. The ease of application is another positive aspect; simply wiping it on and allowing it to cure at room temperature makes it accessible for many users.

However, one drawback to consider is its drying time, which may be longer compared to other finishes. This could be inconvenient if you're looking to complete your project quickly. Another point to keep in mind is that while it offers a beautiful hand-rubbed finish, the natural texture and appearance of the wood can significantly impact the final look, so results may vary. HOPE'S Tung Oil is particularly beneficial for those seeking a natural, durable, and food-safe wood treatment solution for a variety of surfaces.

Rating
9.8
Finish

Most important from
3266 reviews

Finish
Pours out like honey and gives a shiny gloss but not a plastic-like finish.
#3

Real Milk Paint, Half and Half, Pure Tung Oil and Orange Peel Oil for Wood Finishing, Cutting Boards, Butcher Blocks, Clay, Stone, and Slate, Food Grade, 1 Gallon

Rating
9.7
Drying Time
Water Resistance
Ease of Application

Most important from
415 reviews

Drying Time
Patience is required for the curing process, but the results are worth the wait, with a full cure taking about 30 days.
Water Resistance
The finish makes water bead up effortlessly, ensuring excellent waterproof qualities crucial for kitchen countertops.
Ease of Application
Applying this finish is a breeze, almost like using thick water, making it much easier than traditional wipe-on poly.

Real Milk Paint's Half and Half Pure Tung Oil and Orange Peel Oil is designed to provide deep wood penetration due to its thinner formula. The mixture saves you time as it's pre-mixed, making it easier to apply. It's versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, stone, and even clay, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects. Its food-grade quality ensures it is safe for kitchen items like cutting boards and butcher blocks, which is a big plus for those who prioritize safety with food contact surfaces.

The oil develops water resistance in 7-10 days and fully cures in 30 days, so patience is needed to achieve its waterproof capabilities. The finish is described as having a natural light 'Honey' color, which is appealing for those aiming for an antique look. However, it requires multiple coats (3-5) to fully seal the wood, which may be time-consuming. Additionally, the drying time can be relatively long compared to other wood oils, which might be a drawback if you need quicker results.

The fact that it is planet-friendly and non-toxic adds to its appeal for environmentally conscious users. Weighing 8.09 pounds, the 1-gallon size offers a substantial amount, suitable for larger projects. If you're looking for a natural, safe, and versatile wood finish and don't mind the extended drying time, this product is worth considering.

Rating
9.7
Drying Time
Water Resistance
Ease of Application

Most important from
415 reviews

Drying Time
Patience is required for the curing process, but the results are worth the wait, with a full cure taking about 30 days.
Water Resistance
The finish makes water bead up effortlessly, ensuring excellent waterproof qualities crucial for kitchen countertops.
Ease of Application
Applying this finish is a breeze, almost like using thick water, making it much easier than traditional wipe-on poly.

Buying Guide for the Best Tung Oils For Wood

Tung oil is a popular choice for finishing wood due to its natural, non-toxic properties and its ability to provide a durable, water-resistant finish. When choosing a tung oil for your wood project, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and achieve the desired results for your woodwork.
PurityPurity refers to the concentration of tung oil in the product. Pure tung oil is 100% natural and free from additives, making it ideal for those who want a completely natural finish. However, it can take longer to dry and may require multiple coats. Blended or polymerized tung oils contain additives or have been chemically altered to improve drying time and durability. If you need a quicker drying time or enhanced durability, a blended or polymerized option might be more suitable.
Drying TimeDrying time is the amount of time it takes for the tung oil to dry between coats and fully cure. Pure tung oil typically has a longer drying time, often taking 24 hours or more between coats and up to 30 days to fully cure. Blended or polymerized tung oils can dry faster, sometimes within 6-12 hours between coats. If you are working on a project with a tight timeline, choosing a tung oil with a shorter drying time can be beneficial.
FinishThe finish refers to the final appearance of the wood after the tung oil has been applied and cured. Tung oil can provide a range of finishes from matte to glossy, depending on the number of coats and the specific product used. A matte finish offers a more natural look, while a glossy finish provides a shiny, polished appearance. Consider the aesthetic you want for your project when choosing the finish.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is the ability of the tung oil to protect the wood from water damage. Pure tung oil is naturally water-resistant, but multiple coats are often needed to achieve maximum protection. Blended or polymerized tung oils may offer enhanced water resistance with fewer coats. If your wood project will be exposed to moisture or used in a high-humidity environment, selecting a tung oil with high water resistance is crucial.
Ease of ApplicationEase of application refers to how simple it is to apply the tung oil to the wood. Pure tung oil can be more challenging to apply evenly and may require more effort to achieve a smooth finish. Blended or polymerized tung oils often have additives that make them easier to apply and spread more evenly. If you are a beginner or prefer a more straightforward application process, look for a tung oil that is known for its ease of use.

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