Product Overview
The Rust-Oleum Ultimate Wood Stain in Golden Oak (Model 260358) is an oil-based, fast-drying formula designed to enhance the natural wood grain on interior surfaces. It provides rich, even color and maximum durability in a single coat, eliminating the need for a wood conditioner. This product is suitable for various interior wood projects, including cabinets, doors, furniture, and floors.
Key Features:
- High-performance stain for interior wood surfaces.
- Oil-based, fast-drying formula.
- Achieves maximum durability and color in one coat.
- Dries to the touch in 1 hour.
- Covers up to 70 sq. ft. per half pint.
- Allows for topcoat application (polyurethane) after 1 hour.
- Provides deep, even color without pre-conditioning wood.

Image: Rust-Oleum Ultimate Wood Stain, Golden Oak, Half Pint can.
Safety Information
WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Always use in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and eye protection.
Refer to the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety information before use. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Preparation
- Surface Cleaning: Ensure the wood surface is clean, dry, and free from dirt, grease, wax, or old finishes. Remove any loose paint or stain.
- Sanding: Sand the wood surface in the direction of the grain using fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 180-220 grit). For best results, sand to a smooth, uniform finish. Remove all sanding dust with a vacuum or tack cloth.
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area. Open windows and doors, or use fans to ensure adequate airflow.
- Stirring: Thoroughly stir the stain before and during application. Do not shake the can, as this can create bubbles.
- Test Area: Always test the stain on an inconspicuous area of the wood or a scrap piece to verify the desired color and appearance.

Image: A person sanding a wooden board to prepare it for staining.
Application Instructions
Apply the stain using a high-quality natural bristle brush or a clean cloth. Follow the wood grain for an even finish.
- Apply Stain: Apply a generous, even coat of stain in the direction of the wood grain.
- Wipe Excess: Allow the stain to penetrate for 5-15 minutes, depending on the desired color depth. For a lighter color, wipe off sooner; for a darker color, allow more penetration time. Wipe off any excess stain with a clean, lint-free cloth, again following the wood grain. Ensure all excess stain is removed to prevent a tacky finish.
- Drying Time: The stain will be dry to the touch in 1 hour.
- Topcoat Application: For long-lasting protection and enhanced durability, apply a clear protective topcoat such as Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane after 1 hour. Follow the topcoat manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
- Additional Coats (Optional): If a deeper color is desired, a second coat of stain can be applied after 1 hour, following the same application and wiping steps.

Image: A person applying wood stain to a board using a brush.

Image: A person applying a clear protective topcoat over a stained wooden surface.
Recommended Topcoats:

Ultimate Polyurethane (Gloss)

Ultimate Polyurethane (Matte)

Triple Thick Polyurethane
Maintenance and Care
Once the stain and topcoat have fully cured, maintain the finish by cleaning with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing pads, which can damage the finish. Periodically inspect the surface for wear and reapply a topcoat as needed to protect the stained wood.
For general cleaning, use a damp cloth with a small amount of wood-safe cleaner. Wipe dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Troubleshooting
- Tacky Finish: If the stain remains tacky after the recommended drying time, it usually indicates that excess stain was not fully wiped off. In such cases, you may need to lightly re-wipe the surface with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits (follow safety precautions) to remove the excess, then allow to dry thoroughly before applying a topcoat.
- Uneven Color: Uneven color can result from inconsistent application, improper surface preparation (e.g., uneven sanding), or not wiping off excess stain uniformly. Ensure thorough sanding and consistent application technique.
- Bubbles: Bubbles can occur if the stain is shaken vigorously or applied too thickly. Stir the stain gently and apply in thin, even coats.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 260358 |
| Brand | Rust-Oleum |
| Color | Golden Oak |
| Size | Half Pint (8 Fluid Ounces) |
| Coating Type | Oil-based |
| Surface Recommendation | Interior wood surfaces (Door, Floor, Furniture, Wood) |
| Coverage | Up to 70 sq. ft. per half pint |
| Dry to Touch | 1 hour |
| Topcoat Ready | 1 hour |
| Item Weight | 9.6 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 3 x 3 x 3 inches |
| UPC | 020066208318 |
Warranty and Support
Warranty: Rust-Oleum offers a satisfaction guarantee for this product. For specific details regarding the warranty, please refer to the product packaging or contact Rust-Oleum customer service directly.
Support: For further assistance, technical questions, or product information, please visit the official Rust-Oleum website or contact their customer support line. You can find contact information on the product label or the manufacturer's website.
Online Resources: www.rustoleum.com





