10 Best Stainable Wood Fillers & Buyers Guide
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Today, there are several stainable wood filler products, and they all come with different dry rates, consistencies, and textures. Stainable wood fillers help hide the appearance of nicks and nail holes in your wood floor, furniture, and wood surface but can be used to fill in gaps remaining from the installation of a new door frame or drywall. It is advisable to buy a stainable wood filler with a texture similar to the wood.
The most common problems that homeowners face are:
- A scratched hardwood floor.
- Rotted wood in windows and door frames.
- Furniture that has been dented.
To call in professional services to sort the wood repair can be pretty expensive, which is why using stainable wood fillers is more cost-effective. These wood fillers can be used to fill in cavities, holes from nails, and any cracks that have appeared, and other blemishes in wood fixings. Stainable wood fillers are a blend of fine wood particles with a binder that, upon air exposure, dries rock hard. This is why they are a perfect solution to fixing imperfect wood surfaces.
To help you to decide which product would be suitable for your needs, we have compiled a comprehensive review of ten of the best stainable wood fillers on the market, along with a Buyers Guide that will give you more information on the product.
Our Favorite Stainable Wood Fillers | Compared
CLICK any image to see Ratings & Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top  | Minwax (Model 42853000) Stainable Wood Filler, 16 oz | Click Here | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
  | Goodfilla Water-based Wood and Grain Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) |
  | Elmer's (Model E914) Carpenter's Color Change Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | FamoWood (Model 40022126) Latex Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | DAP Plastic Wood Latex Based Wood Filler (Model 211442) | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler Hardener | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Timbermate Hardwood Wood Filler 8oz Jar | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | SYNKO Interior Latex Stainable Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Varathane (Model 215198) Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
  | J-B Weld KwikWood Epoxy Putty Stick Wood Repair | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
Best Stainable Wood Fillers | Reviews
1. Minwax (Model 42853000) Stainable Wood Filler, 16 oz (Best Overall)
- Minwax stainable wood filler is ideal in repairing small gouges, nail holes, cracks, knot holes as well as other defects in indoor and outdoor wood surfaces.
- The stainable wood filler is specially formulated to accept Minwax stains, and it's possible for you to find a suitable one that matches the wood. The formula dries in 15 minutes so after application, there will be no need for sanding or waiting before applying another coat of primer or paint to the wood surface.
- The filler allows you to drill, paint, stain, sand, screw, and nail through it. It comes premixed ready to use. Minwax is an ideal wood filler for a variety of indoor and outdoor projects.
- Because it dries out so quickly any remaining filler to be saved for another time must be sealed properly otherwise it will dry out completely and be useless.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2. Goodfilla Water based Wood and Grain Filler (Best Value)
- Goodfilla has excellent adhesion and does not shrink, crack or sink. It can be mixed with any pigment, tint stain, or dye with one application. Used by professionals but is also ideal for the everyday DIYer.
- It has a long shelf life, and because it is a water based filler you just add water to it should it dry out. It is not ideal for use as an outdoor wood filler or in humid conditions as it can absorb water after it has fully cured and it may not harden as much as some would like it to.
- For best use as an exterior wood filler, it has to be mixed with water-based weather-resistant glue. However, it does have the ability to withstand extreme temperatures. It does not expand and contract like some other fillers due to its properties and is less likely to loosen from temperature variations.
- It is one of the easiest wood fillers to sand and stain once it has dried. It is a green product with zero VOC, zero waste, and is non-toxic. Goodfilla wood and grain filler is affordable and comes with a 1-year money-back 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
3. Elmer’s (Model E914) Carpenter’s Color Change Wood Filler
- Industrial strength Elmer's wood filler is a mighty patch for anything from dings and splits to surface cracks on damaged wood. From filling up nail holes in raw wood to color-matching with old paint, there is no task too big or small that this little orange capped paraben-free formula can't handle beautifully.
- The easy water clean-up means you'll never be caught with steel wool in one hand and goopy yellow filler in the other ever again!
- Elmers E914 Carpenters Color Change Wood Filler comes in a handy, easy-to-use container with an orange cap that has changed the world of filling since 1955.
- The color change formula actually turns purple and dries naturally when it is ready for sanding, staining, or painting due to its patented formula which is designed specifically for cabinetry but can be tailored towards any color scheme when mixed into your paints.
- Stainable, paintable, and sandable it has a non-toxic formula so no burns when touched or any strong odors making it ideal for indoor use.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
4. FamoWood (Model 40022126) Latex Wood Filler
- FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler product is the perfect way to create a strong finish on old, scratched or rotten wood that needs repair and reinvigoration. This professional quality latex filler has excellent workability which allows you to sand, drill or plane it without hassle after application making it great for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Dries in 15 minutes with no signs of shrinkage, cracking, or crumbling! This professional-grade wood filler product is specially formulated to produce a durable and robust finish.
- Its acrylamide polymer binder system, low odor, and excellent water cleanup make it perfect for any project. Use as a stand-alone filler, or with wood putty, for an all-around protective sealant that can be sanded down when dry.
- The thicker filler goes on smoothly and sanding is easy when dry. Won't shrink or leak as it dries like other fillers on the market. Fill in wood knots, scratches, gouges, and cracks to damaged wood before applying a final coat of paint easily and flawlessly without getting sanding dust everywhere!
- This is a strong filler but it may not have as long a shelf life with it being solvent-free, so ensure to put the lid on tightly on the container to keep the contents from drying out. There is a P65 warning for the state of California.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
5. DAP Plastic Latex Based Wood Filler (Model 211442)
- The DAP Plastic Latex Based Wood filler will not shrink or crack. This all-purpose wood filler looks and acts like real wood and is ideal for indoor or outdoor use.
- Repairs cracks, holes, and gauges and is strong enough for nail and screw anchoring. Drying time for shallow wood grain fills is 2-6 hours, for deeper fills allow 36 hours before sanding with medium sandpaper.
- An exterior wood piece must be coated with a solid color stain or painted. Can be cleaned down with a damp cloth before material dries and ensure the lid is tightly on after each use. Although a strong product some reviews say it works better with paint than with stain.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
6. Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler Hardener
- Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler is one of the quickest drying fillers on the market. In just 15 minutes it is ready for sanding and staining or painting in 25 minutes but can take up to 24 hours to fully cure.
- Ideal for repairing damaged and rotted wood, doors, windows, fences, furniture, wood trim, and larger surfaces. The water-resistant formula makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use and the durable 2-part solution helps to provide non-shrink and permanent repairs.
- When mixed it turns a medium brown which helps to blend with the finished wood surface for a consistent appearance. Because it is so quick to harden off ensure you plan the job before starting. It does have a fairly strong odor.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
7. Timbermate Hardwood Wood Filler 8oz Jar
- Timbermate wood filler is a unique quick-drying, water based wood filler. It is easy to apply with no shrinking, cracking, or falling out. Can be used on all interior repairs and accepts stain and can be tinted.
- Drying within 20 to 30 minutes ready for sanding, painting, or staining. Screws and nails can also be used. The formula is non-toxic, is free from solvents making it user-friendly and not dangerous to handle.
- There is no waste when the job is finished just scoop it up and put it back in the bucket, if it freezes put it in the microwave to warm up or if it dries out simply stir in water.
- It is recommended that only stainless steel or plastic tools are used as Timbermate may react to low-grade steels and could turn black. If this does happen it can be removed by adding water or wait for it to dry out and sand it off. Because it is water-soluble it is not suitable for outdoor use.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
8. SYNKO Interior Latex Stainable Wood Filler
- SYNKO offers a product that is specifically designed to be used on interior wood surfaces that require the filling of cracks or holes created by cracking boards, split joints, or simple scratches on wood in and around the home.
- This innovative formula will work well if drilling into it is needed in order to install hardware, such as hinges and handles, where stainability is desired. It can be painted, stained, and varnished without having any effects on its integrity.
- For this reason, it is a great choice for those who want to have the appearance that their hardwood flooring had been refinished without actually having any of its old paint removed or sanded away, in order to save time and money on labor costs associated with professionally refinishing wood floors.
- The natural color tone is similar to that of untreated wood, so SYNKO can easily be used to match existing furniture or cabinets. It also dries quickly and is easily cleaned up using water with excellent adhesion which makes it ideal for indoor use.
- SYNKO latex wood filler can be stained, painted, varnished, or lacquered and will hold screws, nails, and tacks. Hardens like wood and can be sanded, sawed, cut, planed, or drilled.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
9. Varathane (Model 215198) Wood Filler
- Varathane Wood Filler is a high-quality, water based wood filler that drys in 1 hour. It can be used on unfinished or stained wood surfaces and works with many applications including bare woods, finished woods, parquet flooring, and paneling.
- Repairing real wood fiber, furniture and trim is easy with Varathane Wood Filler. This pre-colored filler stick dries fast to the touch in 1 hour for a durable repair job that's hard to tell from new lumber.
- The professional tone combined with its easy application makes the Varathane Wood Filler an essential tool for every home builder and interior designer!
- It is advisable to sand smooth before applying any stain or topcoat. Varathane is a water-based formula that won’t shrink or crack. Not suitable for outdoor use.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
10. J-B Weld KwikWood Epoxy Putty Stick Wood Repair
- J-B Weld Kwikwood wood repair putty is a two-part formula, once the formula is kneaded together it takes 15-25 minutes to set and 1 hour to cure. It is designed for all DIY household wood repairs.
- KwikWood epoxy filler sticks will not shrink or rot and stain can be absorbed but the color should be tested and matched first. It can be molded, tapped, drilled, sanded, and shaped easily into any wooden surface using a putty knife. It is ideal for window/door hinge repairs, furniture gouges and cracks, filling a nail hole, dry rot repairs, knot holes, and gap filler repairs.
- KwikWood can be used on interior and exterior repairs. The J-B Weld epoxy-based stainable wood filler comes in a small tube, is affordable, and ideal for those small repairs that you don’t need a large amount of filler for, so no waste and more cost-effective.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Video: How to Choose & Use Wood Filler
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Stainable Wood Filler Buyers Guide
The Project
To determine which stainable wood filler would best suit your needs, consider the type of project you will be working on, the amount of stainable wood filler you require, the preparation time, and the constraints regarding drying time, impending weather rain.
It is also vital to ensure the product is rated for staining as some work better with paint, so always check the product; otherwise, your project could get ruined. Research before you buy, read other people’s experiences and reviews.
Types of stainable wood fillers
Wood fillers are either water-based or solvent-based fillers and can also be categorized by their four formulas; epoxy-based, gypsum-based, latex-based, and cellulose-based.
Epoxy wood filler
Epoxy fillers are durable and resistant. However, they do require the most preparation before they are ready to use. You must mix the two parts for the epoxy to have the proper adhesion and consistency. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to obtain the correct result.
The epoxy wood fillers expand and contract with temperature changes making them ideal for outdoor use. As they are water-resistant, they are the best wood fillers for sealing foundations or walls in a home against the wind and rain. However, indoor projects should be the last choice because of the preparation and drying time involved.
Gypsum-based
Gypsum-based stainable wood fillers are mainly for indoor use. This type of filler is used in repairing gaps in drywall or baseboards. It is made out of gypsum dust that, when mixed with water, creates a paste; when it dries, it is no longer pliable and has a similar consistency to hardwood or rock!
It is important to note that these fillers are susceptible to water damage and should not be used to expose them to rain even after the wood filler has dried out. However, the gypsum-based wood filler is the most affordable type.
Latex filler
The latex-based stainable wood fillers require less preparation than epoxies. They are used outdoors and after application set very quickly and are water-resistant within the hour. These latex fillers are easy to work with and very useful in repairing rotted wood and fixing holes.
The latex wood fillers are very durable and, when thoroughly dried, become rigid like hardwood allowing sandpaper to be used on the filler to give a smooth finish to match the surrounding wood. You will not damage the repair with screws or nails being driven into it.
Cellulose-based
Cellulose-based stainable wood fillers are not usually known as such on any packaging. Still, the product will say they contain actual wood fibers and are inexpensive compared to a latex filler or epoxy wood fillers.
These fillers, before application, can be mixed with any stain giving a rich color to the material. They are water-based and can be used outdoors but beware; some are strictly for indoor use, so always read the directions on the product to confirm whether it is for indoor or outdoor use.
Before you buy
There are two critical factors to consider before buying a stainable wood filler, quantity and drying time.
Quantity
Buying the correct amount of stainable wood filler for the job can save you money. If you only want to fill small holes and cracks as a one-off job, then a tiny tube of filler will be sufficient. Larger quantities for professional or heavy-duty projects will ensure you don’t run out in the middle of the task and be more cost-effective. You can store any filler leftover for future projects.
Drying time
This is an essential factor to consider. Fillers with fast drying times are ideal for minor projects, but when working on a large project, the last thing you want is to be up against time!
It will make the job easier and less stressful to have a slower drying time so that you can work on the project without feeling rushed. However, some fillers will not work if they are exposed to any moisture before they have cured so consider the weather and drying times stated on the product before starting.
Stainable Wood Filler Frequently Asked Questions
Does stainable wood filler work?
Yes, they are a great way to repair cracks and gouges in unfinished furniture, floors, or walls. They can also be used on newer pieces of stained wooden floors for repairs before the finish is applied if you want them not noticeable later down the road when it’s time to touch up with another coat!
Does wood filler stain the same as wood?
The use of wood fillers can be problematic when trying to achieve consistency in color. They often don’t absorb stain as well, resulting in much lighter or darker spots than surrounding stained wood. This is a problem because if you want your project to look uniform with any finish (whether it’s paint or wax), these small patches will ruin the overall appearance.
The wood filler also has another downside: they sometimes cause discoloration after finishing due to powdery residue infiltrating nearby grain holes, which causes inconsistency between natural and stained wood. Testing on scrap pieces of timber is an excellent way to tell if you have found a good color match before going ahead with the project.
A good stainable wood filler can be challenging to find, but luckily we have done all of your research for you and compiled a list that will help make choosing much easier!
Which is better, wood putty or wood filler?
This depends on whether you are repairing wood inside or outside. For external work, putty is the best option. However, you will need to use something sanded and painted over afterward for interior woodwork, so we recommend using wood fillers because the result is neat and achieved relatively quickly.
Wood putty is a compound that can be used in both woodworking and also painting. Many seasoned experts will refer to it as “plastic wood” because of its ability to fill gaps as plastic filler does but without the risk of destroying or damaging raw surfaces – such as those found on pieces made with softwoods (like pine). It’s often recommended to use after staining or varnishing workpieces so the chemicals from these processes won’t damage the piece before applying your desired finish.
Wood putty is a versatile filling agent. Once dry, it will harden, but this process takes longer than wood filler, and some types need to be mixed with chemicals for stiffening purposes. The most significant drawback of the product is its long drying time, making light colors susceptible to dust accumulation that could darken them over time. However, there are more color options available so finding something that matches your wood stain becomes easier.
Wood filler is a putty-like compound used to fill in cracks and holes on wood surfaces. Unlike wood putty, you should apply it before doing any staining or finishing work on the project; otherwise, your finish may not adhere as well.
Wood filler comes in many different colors, but if yours doesn’t match, there’s no need to worry! Add some dye with tints to match the color scheme, or mix sawdust into it for a more natural look instead – both options will do just fine.
You’ll notice that latex fillers are one of the types most commonly used. Latex is a water-based wood filler, making it easy to clean up and perfect for filling large cracks in unfinished wood-like doors or window frames. The only downside? You can’t mix it with dyes, so you won’t get any color variation if you’re using white paint as an example, but then again, this isn’t too big of a deal because we have other common types like epoxy and polyurethane fillers at our disposal!
Can you make wood filler from sawdust?
What do you think about when it comes to woodworking? Sawdust and wood glue, right! Well, guess what. Putting a layer of putty onto your project can save the day if need be. You might have noticed that there are ‘do-it-yourself’ options out there – but should you go through all this trouble for something so small?
Woodworkers and carpenters meticulously craft their filler to match the specific wood of each project. They use either raw materials or mixed sawdust from that type of wood with glue, shaping them into a putty consistency for easy application.
Woodworker’s cabinetmaker’s putty is often made by mixing sawdust from an identical piece of furniture with a binder (typically wood glue). This makes it much easier to make sure your patch matches perfectly- not only in color but also in texture!
Conclusion
All of the stainable wood fillers reviewed are the best on the market and would do a good job. However, our Best Overall is Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler. This stainable wood filler comes premixed so no-fuss, is quick-drying, and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. It is specially formulated to accept Minwax penetrating wood stains that are either oil-based or water-based. It is a very versatile product at an affordable price, so what’s not to like!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Our Best Value stainable wood filler is Goodfilla Water-Based Wood and Grain Filler ideal for indoor use. This stainable wood filler withstands extreme temperatures, is easy to sand, stain, and paint, has a long shelf life, comes in a variety of colors – including mahogany – and is good value for money. It also comes with a 1 year, money-back guarantee so you can’t go wrong!
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
We hope that the ten reviews and Buyer’s Guide have given you all the information you need to buy a stainable wood filler that is right for your project and you can now buy with confidence.
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When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
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