Preparation

• Wooden doors require cleaning and light sanding before stain is applied. Lightly sand your door with 180 grain sandpaper to remove irregularities and rough spots. Remaining dirt and grime can be removed by applying mineral spirits with a clean rag. When finished with sanding and cleaning, wipe down the door with a clean dry cloth. Use a soft cloth for avoiding scratches on the surface of your door. Hang the door before finishing it to ensure that no adjustments need to be made for fit. Remove the door and lay it flat for finishing it.
  
  

Sealing

• Follow manufacturer's instructions for applying sealers, stain and clear top coat finish. Preseal all surfaces of the door you're staining according to manufacturer's directions. This promotes even absorption of the stain. Let the sealant dry completely before moving the door or applying the stain. Apply and wipe off the stain according to the desired tone and effect you want. Wipe the excess stain off of your door in the same direction as the wood grain. Home improvement experts suggest applying two coats of clear finish over the stain to protect it. Failing to apply sealer, stain, or top coat to all surfaces of your door, including the top, may void any manufacturer's warranty covering your door.
  
  

Tips for Successful Staining

• Buy the best materials you can afford. This can prevent problems with losing brush bristles or finishing products that streak or don't perform according to plan. Test your stain on the top or bottom of your door before staining the door's main surfaces. The top and bottom of the door must be sealed exactly the same way as the rest of the door for the test to work. Sand clear top-coat between each layer. Let the first layer dry completely, then sand it gently with 180 grain sandpaper. Avoid sanding through to the stain layer. Be patient; attempting to sand before a finish layer is absolutely dry may damage it and create more work.
  
  

Maintenance and Safety

• Read and follow all instructions and safety warnings supplied by your door manufacturer and appearing on finishing materials' labels. Fumes from sealants, stains, and varnishes can be toxic. Always work in a ventilated area and refrain from smoking near finishing materials and solvents including mineral oil and paint thinner. Clean brushes used for sealing, staining and finishing your door. Doors finished with polyurethane varnish can be wiped clean with a soft damp rag. Avoid using abrasive materials or cleaners as they can scratch the surface of your stained interior door.