Osmo Oil

How do I apply Osmo Oils?

Before you start, ensure the surface is clean and dry and free of any old paints or lacquers. There are three main methods of application:

Brush application: Using a firm brush, apply thinly and evenly along the wood grain and spread well (1-2 coats). Remove any excess with a dry cloth.

Roller application: Using a microfibre roller, apply thinly and evenly along the wood grain and remove any surplus or excess with a dry cloth. Usually 1-2 coats is sufficient.

Cloth application: Apply thinly, thoroughly, and evenly along the wood grain with a dry, lint-free cloth. Usually 3-4 thin coats are required.

Beware, you must immediately wash any used cloths or store in an air tight container, as there is a risk of self-ignition.

When using Osmo Top Oil (for a kitchen worktop for example), you need to apply very thinly, so the first coat should be applied with a brush and the second with a cloth.

A trial application on a small area is always recommended.

How long does Osmo Oil take to dry?

This depends on the specific product, but generally clear oils take 8-10 hours to dry, while tinted oils take 24 hours.

However, Osmo's Polyx-Oil Rapid dries in 4-5 hours, while the Express can take 1-2 hours (if used with the Polyx-Oil Hardener).

Products will be completely cured in 2-3 weeks.

How do I clean Osmo Oil brushes?

We recommend using Osmo Oil Brush Cleaner and Thinner, which is a white spirit product that has been de-aromatised, meaning it is low odour and safer to use than traditional white spirit.

Soak the brushes in the cleaner for 1-2 hours and then dry them with a cloth. Then wash them in warm soapy water immediately and leave to dry in a ventilated area.

Which Osmo Oil should I use?

Each oil in the Osmo range has a very specific purpose and look, so the right oil depends on the application and the desired effect.

For example, Osmo Polyx Oil absorbs deep into the wood leaving a flexible, lightly waxed finish that is stain resistant, abrasion resistant, and water repellent. It comes in a clear version that enhances the natural beauty of the wood - and now in a new Polyx Oil Tints, offering a variety of colours and a gloss, satin, or matt finish.

Osmo also offers a variety of speciality oils, such as UV Protection Oil, Osmo Decking Oil, Anti-Slip Decking Oil, and Osmo Door Oil.

How many coats should I apply?

When using a brush, a maximum of two coats. The oils are designed to absorb into the wood, so a third coat would not absorb.

When using a cloth, the application layers are much thinner, so three or four coats are recommended.

How do I remove Osmo Oil from wood?

Use a powerful paint stripper, such as Osmo Paint Stripper which needs to be applied, covered and left to work, and then scraped off. Wood can then be washed with hot soapy water before being left to dry ready for a new application of oil.

Can you paint over Osmo Oil?

This is not recommended, as the moisture repellent surface will make coverage difficult and lead to peeling. Instead, strip the oil first, wash the wood and leave to thoroughly dry before attempting to paint.

How do I get Osmo Oil off my hands?

Simply washing your hands in warm soapy water should remove any traces of oil. If there are stubborn traces, try rubbing dry hands with vegeable oil and massaging into affected areas before washing with warm water and soap.