The 10 Best Clear Oil Based Varnishes (2022 reviews)

clear oil based varnishes
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Are you planning to buy clear oil based varnishs, and are you confused about the options ? This page is just for you.

Our review process:

Our Top Picks:

Best Overall:
Buy: General Finishes Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Uv Protection:
Buy: Minwax Clear Finish
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Best For All Types Of Marine And Household Woods:
Buy: Totalboat Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Front Door:
Buy: Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish
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Best With Low Odor:
Buy: Varathane Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Cabinet:
Buy: Minwax Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Outdoors:
Buy: Decoart Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Stained Wood:
Buy: Rustoleum Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Interior Use:
Buy: Zar Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best For Outdoor Furniture:
Buy: System Three Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Best Overall: General Finishes Clear Oil Based Varnish

General Finishes Clear Oil Based Varnish
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General Finishes offers a variety of varnish for personal choice and yet maintains quality in all the variants. The general finish, clear oil - based varnish is built with beautiful results, Read the instructions and it has sealed this tree slice. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. These topcoats are extremely durable and long - lasting.

The varnish has read directions and it works well for interior use. Finally, the general finish clear oil - based varnish is made with great stuff, has great results and it is easy to use.

Almost all buyers opine that the varnish has a water - based low - odor option. Further, they strongly agree that varnish is important to use 100% cotton t-shirts. And, they say that this has a lovely finish but for gently used furniture inside. In short, the tone of buyers is very positive and we believe that the varnish suits the purpose.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • This does have a yellow tint, so yes, more than likely.
  • This is easy to touch up and does not have any flash points.
  • This is for a gallon of gloss, also known as high - gloss.
  • This has almost no odor and goes on really smoothly when wiped.

Best For Uv Protection: Minwax Clear Finish

Minwax Clear Finish
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Next on the list, we've got yet another varnish that manages to win our hearts. It's the Minwax Clear Finish and it's widely considered as one of the most convenient varnish you can buy. The minwax clear finish is one of the leading brands of interior wood stains in the united States. After final coat, allow 24 hours before light use. This oil - based clear sealer protective coating protects and adds long - lasting beauty to woodwork, furniture, doors, cabinets and floors.

The varnish is great for low humidity, is good for several coats and it is easy to use. Most importantly, the minwax clear finish is very glossy, is non-toxic and it dries well.

Most customers opine that the varnish is a good quality clearcoat for your high gloss. In addition, they strongly agree that the varnish is lacquered on the inside where the water is held. And, a few also found that this one apart is the adjustable field of spray. With no doubts, this product passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • Manufacturer says: since 1904, we have been inspiring consumers to keep on finishing.
  • This is submersed in water. The lacquer will give way over time.
  • This worked great and it went on smoothly.
  • This can be sprayed on rattans but brushing or ragging it on would be problematic.

Best For All Types Of Marine And Household Woods: Totalboat Clear Oil Based Varnish

Totalboat Clear Oil Based Varnish
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Totalboat line of varnish comes in a pretty wide variety of styles, so you can definitely find one that suits your individual preferences and needs. The Totalboat Clear Oil Based Varnish is the first true, one-part marine varnish that allows multiple coats in one day, with no sanding required in between. Manufacturer says: For a low-sheen finish with maximum clarity, we recommend using lust gloss or gleam gloss for sealer (base) and build coats. Also, the varnish levels out nicely, has a nice shine and it is easy to use.

The varnish has a viscosity similar to traditional European varnishes. In addition, the varnish is smooth and durable, with a gloss level so shiny it looks wet, even when it’s dry—making it ideal for brightwork. Lastly, the totalboat clear oil - based varnish looks good and it is always fresh.

Most buyers quickly discovered that the varnish has worked well so far on outdoor wooden items. Also, they also found that the varnish would give it an orangish tint. Further, they say that the varnish is much more durable than traditional varnishes. In conclusion, most buyers agree that the varnish suits best, and no one questions it.

Why We Like This:
  • Creates a durable, waterproof finish that won't fade.
  • Available in high gloss or matte in pint, quart and gallon sizes.
  • This can be done in as little as one hour at 72°f.
  • Marine grade varnish imparts a rich, clear amber tone that enhances wood grain.

Best For Front Door: Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish

Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish
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If you often find yourself scrambling for appropriate and satisfactory varnish, Totalboat Gleam Gloss Varnish is your solution. The totalboat gleam gloss varnish is easy to apply, dries fast, and doesn't need sanding between coats. The Manufacturer says: The members of our totalboat tech team are boat owners who really know their stuff. Further, this is the ideal outdoor wood sealer and waterproof finish on brightwork on boats, strip canoes, kayaks and outdoor wooden bar tops, garage doors, furniture and more.

The varnish goes on nice, is great with great stuff and it allows for a great look. Most importantly, the totalboat gleam gloss varnish is suitable for clear coating applications.

Almost all buyers quickly discovered that the varnish does depend on the type of paint used, in most cases yes. Further, a few say that the varnish is made of heart pine. Further, a few strongly agree that the final coat should be satin, all of the build - up coats should be gloss to get the most UV protection.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • A total of 4-6 coats will give the best finish and depth.
  • This goes on smoothly, has compared gleam to other varnishes and it is very strong.
  • It is very glossy, it works great and it looks great.
  • Self-leveling varnish dries fast—recoat in as little as 1 hour at 72°f.

Best With Low Odor: Varathane Clear Oil Based Varnish

Varathane Clear Oil Based Varnish
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The Varathane line of varnish comes in a pretty wide variety of styles, so you can definitely find one that suits your individual preferences and needs. The Varathane Clear Oil Based Varnish dries clear, is made for great protection and it is good for several coats. Based formula dries fast and cleans up with soap and water. Further, it dries very quickly, is odorless and it goes on milky.

Above all, the varathane clear oil based varnish provides good coverage, went on nice and it drys quickly.

Most customers found that the varnish does not absorb light, therefore it does not yellow. Also, they say that the varnish is about a medium shine, depending on how many coats. And, they say that this finish is great for dining tables and surfaces that need extra protection. In short, most buyers agree that the varnish is functionally comfortable and no one questions it.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • This is perfect to seal up the interior of a bamboo tea set case.
  • This is purely preference, If you would like a smoother finish, go with a sponge.
  • The best scratch and stain protection available.
  • The key is to make sure the first coat is even and consistent.

Best For Cabinet: Minwax Clear Oil Based Varnish

Minwax Clear Oil Based Varnish
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The Minwax Clear Oil Based Varnish's material feels more premium than its price would suggest. The minwax clear oil based varnish is great with the end result and it is odorless. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Also, it goes in well, is excellent for shelves and it is great for customer service.

The varnish covers well and it has a nice shine. Also, this has great results, is great for acrylic paintings and it is suitable for direct sunlight. Finally, the minwax clear oil - based varnish works like a charm, works very well and it makes for easy cleanup.

Almost all customers agree that the varnish is great for furniture and oddly - shaped items. And, a few also found that the varnish is safe for food. Moreover, they strongly agree that the varnish is bare wood, no reason to think it would not work. In short, buyers found this to be one of the best varnish for daily purposes.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • These make for super easy cleanup, went on clear and it is subtle.
  • This is made for ease of application and it is easy to use.
  • This is perfect for a guitar headstock refinish.
  • This is urethane so it does n't have any reaction.

Best For Outdoors: Decoart Clear Oil Based Varnish

Decoart Clear Oil Based Varnish
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The Decoart Clear Oil Based Varnish is capable of outshining several other varnish featured in this list in overall features in its price range. The decoart clear oilbased varnish comes with good stuff and it is used for paper mache. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Also, the varnish dries clear and it can get very little odor.

Most importantly, the decoart clearoil - basedvarnish can be used on most hard craft surfaces, both interior and exterior.

Almost all buyers quickly discovered that the varnish works well over acrylics on wood and leaves a nice flat finish. Furthermore, a few also found that the varnish can be used on wood painted with water based acrylic paint. Further, they also found that the varnish is ideal for dolls ' faces. With no doubts, this varnish passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • Manufacturer says: as creators of paint, we find it difficult to answer that question.
  • Brush-on polyurethane, non-yellowing varnishes that form a tough, flexible, clear finish that dries quickly.
  • This is not recommended for use on putty.
  • Forms a weatherproof, protective seal on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Best For Stained Wood: Rustoleum Clear Oil Based Varnish

Rustoleum Clear Oil Based Varnish
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The Rustoleum Clear Oil Based Varnish is capable of outshining several other varnish featured in this list in overall features for the price point. The rustoleum clear oil based varnish is for ease of use and it has great results. Please read product labels for additional directions and precautions before using. Moreover, it is great for window sills and it is portable.

The varnish protects with hand rubbed beauty. Most importantly, the rustoleum clear oilbased varnish is a super durable polyurethane solution that is easily hand rubbed onto wood to provide a strong, clear protective finish against water, stains, and rigorous wear and tear.

Almost all buyers quickly discovered that the varnish can stay on the surface for a short time but should be cleaned up as soon as possible. Also, they say that the varnish can try a small spot first. Further, they say that the varnish can be poured on a flat piece, and spread with a cloth. With no doubts, this varnish passed the test and had very satisfied buyers eager to share their experience.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • This looks good, but using it gets a little messy.
  • This is very affordable, applies easily and it is easy to use.
  • This is not intended for painted furniture.
  • This looks good and it dries faster.

Best For Interior Use: Zar Clear Oil Based Varnish

Zar Clear Oil Based Varnish
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If you are searching for a popular varnish for your regular use, you cannot go wrong with the Zar Clear Oil Based Varnish. The zar clearoil based varnish comes dries in two hours, is best for exterior use and it is easy to use. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Moreover, it drys fast, is great for a fair price and it has doors.

Above all, the zar clear oil basedvarnish read the instructions and it has excellent results.

Most customers quickly discovered that the varnish can be used on the interior of new oak stairs. Also, they strongly agree that the varnish can use a hair drier to get rid of bubbles... youtube on how. Also, they say that the " final " curing, in which the finish is as hard and resistant to distressing, can take much longer. In short, many customers have used the varnish for more than a few months without any issues, and it shows no sign of giving up.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • This is great for floors, is dead flat and it went on smoothly.
  • The finish is an " old world " look type of flat finish.
  • This provides a true flat matte finish to your surface.
  • This will remain for future projects.

Best For Outdoor Furniture: System Three Clear Oil Based Varnish

System Three Clear Oil Based Varnish
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System Three offers a variety of varnishs for personal choice and yet maintains quality in all the variants. The system three clear oil - based varnish offers excellent protection from salt air and water. System three marine spar varnish is also resistant to scratching and marring, as well as many cleaners and solvents. Also, the varnish is exceptionally durable and it is wonderful in application.

The varnish is good for several coats and it is good for easy cleanup. Also, it looks beautiful and it is worth the money. Lastly, the system three clear oil - based varnish is designed for marine epoxy and exterior wood surfaces such as railings, doors or any surface where a clear, durable finish is desired.

Most customers quickly discovered that the varnish is very clear and dries to a fine clear finish on most surfaces. And, they also found that the varnish will fill them in, it is a liquid. Further, a few also found that the main reason the varnish is used is to protect the epoxy from UV rays. In short, the tone of buyers is very positive and we believe that the varnish suits the purpose.

Top Customer Quotes:
  • This has great results, holds up well and it went on well.
  • A high - solids, voc compliant finish. Coverage - 300 - 350 ft2/gal.
  • This is a great finish and goes on easy and smoothly.
  • This will yellow it at least some and over time it will yellow even more.