We had been meaning to stain and seal Miss A’s playset since she got it about a year and a half ago. Living in the South limits the comfortable weather windows, so when Easter weekend brought perfect temperatures and low humidity, we spent two Saturdays finishing the job. It felt great to check this important maintenance task off the list and protect the wood for the coming seasons.
For the finish we chose Flood CWF-UV®5 Oil Wood Finish. This oil-based wood finish both stains and helps protect against moisture and mildew; it includes a penetrating additive that helps preserve the wood. We selected the clear version to enhance and deepen the natural color of the cedar without changing it dramatically.
The playset needed a thorough cleaning before staining. Dirt, pollen and bird droppings had accumulated over many months, and some areas of the wood had raised grain from moisture exposure. Proper prep is essential to get a uniform finish and ensure the stain penetrates the wood effectively.
Supplies needed:
- Flood CWF Oil Wood Finish (clear)
- Purdy brush for all paints and stains — a high-quality brush will last if you clean it carefully
- Foam roller for broad, even coverage
- Water hose
- Hose nozzle
- Cleaning bucket
- White vinegar (optional: a few drops of essential oil for scent)
- Stiff scrub brush
- Disposable gloves
- Medium grit sandpaper
Step 1: Sand
Start by sanding any rough or raised areas. We used medium-grit sandpaper to smooth spots where the wood fiber had lifted from moisture. Sanding also opens the wood grain slightly so the oil finish can penetrate better. Focus on splintered edges, handholds, and any weathered surfaces.
Step 2: Clean
A clean surface is crucial for good adhesion and consistent color. We scrubbed the playset with a mixture of water and vinegar, adding a few drops of essential oil for scent. The vinegar helps cut pollen and organic residue without harsh chemicals. Use disposable gloves for handling bird droppings and other debris you’d rather not touch directly.
Step 3: Hose it off
After scrubbing, rinse the structure thoroughly with a hose. The pressure removes lingering pollen and loosened grime. It’s easier to use a nozzle to direct water into crevices and corners. If the playset has deep-set dirt, spot-scrub as needed and rinse again until the water runs clear.
Step 4: Wait for it to dry
Let the wood dry completely before applying the oil finish. Depending on sun, temperature and humidity, this can take several hours. We used the drying time productively—washing the cars—then returned to apply the stain once everything felt dry to the touch. Applying finish to damp wood will prevent proper penetration and can leave a tacky surface.
Step 5: Stain
Apply the oil-based finish with a foam roller for large flat areas, and use a quality brush to work the product into corners, joints and textured spots. We rolled as much as possible and brushed the areas the roller couldn’t reach. Because we used a clear finish, precision isn’t as demanding as with pigmented stains—your goal is even coverage and avoiding heavy pooling in corners.
The playset is large, so the process was time-consuming rather than complicated. With two people working, it took about four hours to cover the entire structure. Plan for that kind of commitment for similarly sized outdoor projects. Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use to keep them in good condition for future touch-ups.
Once the stain cured, the cedar’s color deepened and the whole playset looked refreshed and protected. Properly staining and sealing outdoor wood extends its life and reduces the need for repairs. Because we invested time in building the structure, applying a maintenance coat of oil finish each year will keep it attractive and safe for many seasons.
We didn’t take a lot of staged before-and-after photos, but the next day we hid Easter eggs on the playset and I captured this shot of the table—clear evidence that the finish revived the wood and gave it a clean, natural sheen. It’s a satisfying update that makes outdoor play more inviting.
More posts you may enjoy:
- How to Paint a Wood Fence the Fast and Easy Way!
- How to Paint a Concrete Patio
- Gorgeous and Functional Outdoor Living Spaces