Search

*Disclaimer: Tossions earns a commission from qualifying purchases.

The 8 Best stains for cedars of 2025

Are you trying to find stains for cedars among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling stains for cedars on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 26 hours of research and did 21 stains for cedars tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best stains for cedars you can buy today

No. 1
Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood
  • Requires no primer. Ready Seal is darkest when first applied. It reaches its true color in approximately 14 days. Do not apply Ready Seal over painted or newly stained surfaces. Sealed surfaces inhibit penetration.
  • May be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the woods surface.
  • Requires no back brushing and will nerver leave runs, laps, or streaks.
  • Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application.
  • Requires no diluting or thinning prior to spray applications.
  • "Goof Proof" application
  • No laps, runs or streaks
  • No back brushing
  • Apply in any temperature
  • Subject to or will include a PaintCare recycling fee in the following states: CA, OR, CT, VT
No. 2
OLD MASTERS, Cedar 11916 WIP Stain
  • This product adds a great value
  • Easy application and superior Color control
  • For interior use and suitable for exterior use when top coated with a protective clear finish
  • Model number: 11916
SaleNo. 3
Krylon K03601000 Exterior Semi-Transparent Wood Stain, Cedar, 12 Ounce
  • Premium, durable stain
  • Water repellent and UV fade protection
  • Fast, even coverage
  • Model number: K03601000
No. 4
KILZ Waterproofing Wood Stain, Exterior, Semi-Transparent, Cedar, 1 Gallon
  • KILZ TRIBUTE Satin is a low VOC, hundred percent Acrylic advanced technology paint and primer in one formulated for superior hide and coverage with exceptional durability
  • Papyrus is a medium shade of almond. Because of its Neutral tone, it creates the perfect backdrop for adding your own personal style, allowing your other design elements to take center stage
  • Papyrus is a medium shade of almond. Because of its Neutral tone, it creates the perfect backdrop for adding your own personal style, allowing your other design elements to take center stage
  • KILZ TRIBUTE paint comes in four sheens and hundred classic neutrals and on trend colors. Our low-voc durable and Washable long-lasting paints will beautify your home and enhance its livability and value
  • 1-Gallon can of KILZ TRIBUTE Satin Papyrus TB interior paint for use with high-quality brushes or rollers. Up to 400 sq. Ft. Per gallon coverage on smooth surfaces
No. 5
General Finishes Exterior 450 Water Based Wood Stain, 1 Quart, Cedar
  • PREMIUM, EXTERIOR WOOD STAINS, MADE IN THE USA - General Finishes Exterior 450 Stains are specifically designed for outdoor projects with vertical surfaces such as fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens, and interior windows. These stains are not recommended for large horizontal surfaces such as a deck.
  • CONTAINS U.V. ABSORBERS - The U.V. absorbers protect the integrity of the film, but will not prevent the wood from changing color in the sunlight.
  • EASY APPLICATION AND CLEAN-UP - Exterior 450 Stains can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. Clean hands and application tools with soap and water.
  • PROUDLY MANUFACTURED IN AMERICA - General Finishes-East Troy, Wisconsin. America's leading manufacturer of innovative water-based finishes. Est. 1928
  • FOR EXTERIOR PROJECTS - including wood, MDF and fiberglass.
  • FAST DRY TIME - Dries 2+ hours, dependent on humidity and temperature. Ideal conditions: 70ºF/20ºC, 50% humidity.
  • VOC COMPLIANT in every U.S. state. Made with Renewable Resources comprised of plant proteins,an eco-friendly advancement in the paint and coatings industry.
  • AVAILABLE IN 14 COLORS - 13 stock colors and a natural base.
No. 6
Ready Seal Exterior Stain and Sealer-1 Gallon can (Natural Cedar 112)
  • Wood Stain and Wood Sealer in one
  • No peeling, cracking, or chipping.
  • Goof Proof application process
  • Ready Seal is designed for exterior use only
  • Approximately 125-150 sq. feet per gallon
No. 7
Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon
  • WATERPROOFING STAIN – Bring out the beauty of your outdoor wood with Thompson’s WaterSeal Solid Color Waterproofing Wood Stain. Along with adding smooth color, it’s a deck sealer that prevents water damage to help you maintain your outdoor living spaces.
  • COLOR WOOD STAIN – This outdoor wood stain provides a solid finish. It will hide the wood grain, but still allow the wood texture to show. It provides complete protection while adding boldly tinted color.
  • FADE RESISTANT FINISH – The advanced polymers in this outdoor wood and deck stain deliver fade-resistant color so it stays looking great year-round. The coating resists UV damage, so you can apply with confidence.
  • EASY TO USE – Whether you’re refinishing an existing fence or putting the finishing touches on a new deck, this waterproofing wood stain is easy to apply. It can be applied to damp or dry wood. Clean the surface thoroughly prior to use for best results.
  • EXCEEDS INDUSTRY STANDARDS – Thompson’s Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain exceeds Industry Standard ASTM D-4446 for waterproofing wood.
No. 8
Cabot Semi-Solid Wood Stain + Sealer, Low VOC, New Cedar, Gallon
  • OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN - Cabot Semi-Solid Stain + Wood Sealer is formulated to provide long lasting beauty and wood protection. The wood protector hides some wood grain to form a stronger weather barrier.
  • SUPERIOR PROTECTION – Our advanced waterproofing formula creates a mold- & mildew-resistant finish that stands up to time and style. Choose a one-coat wood sealant that won’t show brush marks and resists lapping, peeling, scuffs and scratches.
  • EASY TO APPLY – With just one deck staining coat needed, this natural wood stain lets you finish your projects quicker and get back to enjoying the outdoors.
  • IDEAL FOR - Use as a deck stain, wood fence stain and sealer, and much more. It’s ideal for decks, siding, and fencing. Available in 100 colors, both classic or modern and on-trend, this paint stain is made to last.
  • CABOT STAIN – Since 1877, Cabot has been a leader in wood care with easy-to-use prep products, long-lasting deck staining products, durable topcoats and more. At Cabot, we do wood care. And we’re here to help.
No. 9
Old Masters 24982 81304 Gel Stain, Cedar, 1 Quart
  • This item is a Old Masters 81304 Gel Stain, Cedar, 1 Qt
  • Purpose of use for Painting Supplies, household-wood-stains
  • This product is manufactured in United States
No. 10
DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain, Cedar Tone
  • Deck Stain and Sealer with Superior UV Protection - Formulated with zinc nano-particle technology that acts as a sunscreen for your wood, protecting against harmful UV rays.
  • Wood Sealer Outdoor Waterproof Stain - Creates a water repellent barrier that prevents water damage and extends the life of your wood surfaces. Enjoy lasting protection against the elements.
  • Beautiful Outdoor Wood Stain Colors - Enhance the natural beauty of your deck, fence or siding with a stunning semi-transparent finish that highlights the grain and texture. Available in 6 colors.
  • Easy to Use - Whether you're staining a deck, fence, siding, or any other exterior wood stain project, DEFY Extreme is easy to apply with a brush, pump-up sprayer, or airless sprayer.
  • Soap and Water Cleanup - This water-based wood deck stain and sealer is 250 VOC compliant, making it better for you, your family, and the environment.
SaleNo. 11
Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain and Sealer, Natural Cedar, 1 Gallon
  • WATERPROOFING STAIN – Bring out the beauty of your outdoor wood with Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Wood Stain. Along with adding smooth color, it’s a deck sealer that prevents water damage to help you maintain your outdoor living spaces.
  • TRANSPARENT WOOD STAIN – This outdoor wood stain provides a transparent finish. It will hide the wood grain, but still allow the wood texture to show. It provides complete protection while adding boldly tinted color.
  • FADE RESISTANT FINISH – The advanced polymers in this outdoor wood and deck stain deliver fade-resistant color so it stays looking great year-round. The coating resists UV damage, so you can apply with confidence.
  • EASY TO USE – Whether you’re refinishing an existing fence or putting the finishing touches on a new deck, this waterproofing wood stain is easy to apply. It can be applied to damp or dry wood. Clean the surface thoroughly prior to use for best results.
  • EXCEEDS INDUSTRY STANDARDS – Thompson’s Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain exceeds Industry Standard ASTM D-4446 for waterproofing wood.
No. 12
TWP 1501 Cedartone Low VOC Wood Preservation Stain - Eco-Friendly, Long-Lasting Protection, UV & Water Resistant, Easy to Apply - 1 Gallon
  • Low VOC Formula: Specially formulated for use in low VOC states, TWP is the eco-conscious choice, ensuring compliance without compromising on performance.
  • EPA Registered Wood Preservative: Offering peace of mind, TWP 1500 SERIES, including 1501, is an EPA registered wood preservative under EPA number 51578-1 designed to prevent structural damage and wood decay.
  • Versatile Protection: Perfect for a variety of applications including new and old exterior wood, decking, fencing, siding, and log homes, ensuring your wood stays in pristine condition.
  • Long-Lasting Durability: This preservative stain not only enhances the natural beauty of your wood but also provides a durable barrier against the elements, preserving your wood's integrity over time.
  • Easy Application: TWP's user-friendly formulation ensures a straightforward application process, allowing both professionals and DIY enthusiasts to achieve professional-level results.
No. 13
Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane - Premium Waterproof Sealant -1 Gallon & Cedar
  • WATER-BASED POLYURETHANE WOOD FINISH: Our sealant provides top-notch protection against wear and tear in high traffic areas. It's odorless and ideal for use on wood siding, log homes, swing sets, outdoor furniture, wooden deck and fence, and more.
  • WOOD SEALANT: Unlike many sealers that only form a topcoat, our protector penetrates below the surface to create a long-lasting, water-resistant shield around the wood. It helps resist wood damage, deterioration, and protects against the elements.
  • FLOOR SEALER APPLICATOR: Our premium gloss is ultra-low VOC and great for enhancing the extended life of your exterior flooring. The sealant can be safely applied around your home, landscaping, vegetation, or over any water area.
  • WATERPROOF SEALER: Ditch the oil-based sealers and choose a UV-stable coating option. Our fast-drying liquid creates a flexible, breathable barrier and provides a no-fuss, easy clean-up with soap and water, as it allows the wood to grey naturally.
  • SEAL-ONCE: Our user-friendly wood sealers and stains are an effective way to protect your lumber or concrete against water damage. When you use Seal-Once, you have the satisfaction of knowing our products will not harm pets, plants, or people.
No. 14
Wood Defender Transparent Fence Stain Cedar Tone 5-Gallon
  • UTILIZES ULTRA-FINE TRANS-OXIDE PIGMENTS:to highlight the wood’s grain and other positive characteristics, and increase resistance to UV rays.
  • COVERAGE RATE: on unsealed wood is 100-150 sq. ft per gallon.
  • APPLICATION: Goes on easy in just one coat with no runs, drips, or back-brushing.
  • SURFACE TYPES: Often used on new cedar or redwood fences that have a lot of naturla beauty to amplify, as well as for pre-stain facilities that choose to stain outdoor builing materials prior to installation.
  • STATE RESTRICTIONS: Undeliverable to CA
No. 15
Cabot Semi-Transparent Wood Stain + Sealer, Low VOC, Cedar, Gallon
  • OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN - Cabot Semi-Transparent Stain + Wood Sealer is formulated to provide long lasting beauty and wood protection. The wood sealant highlights the grain of your wood with protective color.
  • SUPERIOR PROTECTION – Also a wood protector, the semi-transparent finish provides powerful resistance to moisture and UV damage. Our one-coat finish won’t show brush marks, giving you long-lasting protection that resists fading.
  • EASY TO APPLY – With just one deck staining coat needed, this natural wood stain lets you finish your projects quicker and get back to enjoying the outdoors.
  • IDEAL FOR - Use as a deck stain, wood fence stain and sealer, and much more. It’s ideal for decks, siding, and fencing.
  • CABOT STAIN – Since 1877, Cabot has been a leader in wood care with easy-to-use prep products, long-lasting deck staining products, durable topcoats and more. At Cabot, we do wood care. And we’re here to help.
No. 16
SamaN Interior One Step Wood Seal, Stain and Varnish – Oil Based Odorless Dye - Protection for Furniture and Fine Wood (Cedar SAM-303, 32 oz)
  • 20 YEARS OF NORTH-AMERICAN EXCELLENCE: The preferred choice of professional woodworkers and DIYers in North America.
  • CONVENIENT TO USE: Low odor formula that is ok for the users, pets and the environment.
  • ONE SUPER QUICK STEP: Seal, stain and varnish at the same time. Get the makeover you are dreaming of!
  • EASY TO USE HIGH QUALITY PRODUCT: It’s a one coat only, fast action product. 1L covers approximatively 150 to 200 sq. ft.
  • TONS OF COLORS TO PICK FROM: Over 20 colors to choose from. Get a unique look quickly! The final colour may vary depending on the wood essence you are working on.
No. 17
TWP 101 Cedartone 1 Gallon
  • Please Note: TWP 100 Series and TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series are not VOC Compliant for Canada and these USA states and cannot be shipped or used there: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Northern VA, Pennsylvania, Parts of Arizona, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, all of Canada.
  • USE TWP 100 PRO-SERIES ON THESE EXTERIOR WOOD APPLICATIONS: DECKS, SIDING & SHINGLES, ROUGH SAWN CEDAR, LOG HOMES, FENCES, SHAKES & FASCIA
  • EASY APPLICATION & EASY TO MAINTAIN
  • BEAUTIFIES AND PROTECTS
  • REPELS WATER LONGER
SaleNo. 18
Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain - Lakeside Cedar - Gallon
  • RICH COLOR: PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain delivers color & waterproofer deep into wood for increased protection and durability.
  • PROTECTS WOOD: Protects wood projects against moisture and harmful UV rays to prevent rot and decay by creating a non-toxic, waterproof barrier.
  • BIO-BASED: By using whey protein as a co-binder, PolyWhey leverages a renewable resource to deliver the safest and most durable paints, stains and finishes on the market.
  • EASY APPLICATION & CLEANUP: Complete jobs quickly with 48 hours dry times and easy soap and water clean up.
  • USE ON: Exterior Penetrating Wood Stain with PolyWhey technology is a one-step, durable, element-repelling sealer and topcoat for siding, fences, furniture and other outdoor wood surfaces
No. 19
DEFY Ultra Semi-Transparent Outdoor Wood Stain and Sealer in One – Cedar Tone, 1 Gallon, Deck Stain and Sealer | Rich Color and Satin Sheen for All Wood Types
  • Deck Stain and Sealer in One - Combines stain and sealer benefits for comprehensive protection and enhanced natural beauty in a single product. Easy application for long-lasting results.
  • Semi-Transparent Finish – This outdoor wood sealer allows the natural wood grain to show through while providing a beautiful color. Perfect for decks, fences, siding, porches, pergolas, and playsets.
  • Versatile Outdoor Wood Stain and Sealer - Can be applied as a 1 coat or 2 coat system. Apply 1 coat of stain for a flat, natural-looking finish, or 2 coats for a deeper color and rich satin sheen.
  • Superior UV Protection - Infused with zinc nano-technology and advanced UV inhibitors to guard against sun damage, preventing graying and fading while keeping your wood vibrant and protected.
  • Enhanced Water Resistance – This wood sealer outdoor waterproof stain seals wood with a silicone/siloxane additive that prevents moisture damage, extending the life of your wood.
SaleNo. 20
PPG ProLuxe Gallon Cetol SRD Exterior Wood Finish Translucent - Cedar 077 Y
  • PPG ProLuxe Gallon Cetol SRD Exterior Wood Finish Translucent - Cedar 077 Y

How to choose a good stains for cedars

Does the idea of finding a fantastic stains for cedars make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in stains for cedars. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top stains for cedars products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top stains for cedars on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top stains for cedars brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top stains for cedars based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the stains for cedars were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good stains for cedars, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your stains for cedars.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting stains for cedars for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our stains for cedars. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what stains for cedars should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on stains for cedars.