Restoring Wooden Hot Tub Cabinets & Furniture

Rain, sun, snow and normal wear and tear can cause your wooden hot tub cabinet and outdoor furniture to become faded and in need of some love. While many people consider the appearance of faded wood as an indication that it is nearing time to dispose of it, I will show you how you can easily restore the natural beauty of your hot tub and wood furniture for less than $50 and a few hours of your time

What You Will Need

To achieve a natural rich wood appearance, I have found that applying Boiled Linseed Oil mixed with a small amount of turpentine (to enhance absorption and speed up drying time) provides the best results, and it’s about half the price of synthetic wood preservatives. Because linseed oil hardens as it dries, wood stained with this oil also becomes resistant to denting, scratching and water absorption.

To treat wood using this method, you will need:

• Durable rubber gloves
• Protective eyewear
• A mask
• A lint-free rag
• Boiled Linseed Oil
• Turpentine
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloth
• Apron

Preparing the Wood

Before you begin restoring your hot tub cabinet or wood furniture, it is important to thoroughly sand off any existing paint or sealant, and clean the surface. A clean, porous wood surface will allow for better absorption of the linseed oil and a more uniform, beautiful appearance when finished. To clean the wood, use CleanAll Spray and a clean damp rag. This will also help to remove any debris left over from sanding. Allow wood to completely dry after cleaning.

Applying Linseed Oil

Now that the wood is clean and dry, the fun part begins!

Step 1: Before applying the linseed oil, carefully remove your spa cover and tape the spa shell and any accessories or objects that you do not want to get oil on (Spa Caddy, towel bar, etc.).

Step 2: Lay down a painter’s drop cloth to protect the area where you are working.

Step 3: Gear up! Before you start mixing the oil, put on protective eyewear, gloves, apron and mask.

Important Note: Most masks do not protect against harmful vapors, so be sure to only work in a well-ventilated area and thoroughly read all warning labels and directions on the linseed oil and turpentine containers before use.

Step 4: Using a large measuring cup, mix 2/3 boiled linseed oil with 1/3 turpentine and stir well.

Step 5: Apply mixture by dipping the corner of your lint-free rag and rubbing into the wood in the direction of the grain.

If the wood is extremely faded, it may take 2-4 coats to achieve the desired color. Allow each coat to completely dry before applying the next. After the final layer is applied, wait 24 hours and wipe down the cabinetry to remove any excess oil that will not absorb.

Linseed oil is also great for restoring faded outdoor wood furniture. Follow the same steps above to achieve beautiful results.

IMPORTANT: When finished, be sure to lay the linseed oil rag flat to dry in an open area and then wash thoroughly. Bunched up rags can combust.

Do you have any questions about refinishing your spa cabinetry or outdoor furniture? Post a comment below! Also see: Painting Wooden Hot Tub Cabinets