Tung oil, a natural, eco-friendly finish, has become increasingly popular among woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts seeking to protect and enhance the beauty of wood surfaces. Its ability to penetrate deeply, providing a durable, water-resistant finish while maintaining the natural appearance of wood, makes it a favored choice. However, with numerous brands available on the market, selecting the best option can be daunting. To make an informed decision on the best brands for tung oil, explore the comprehensive list below.
Illustration of tung oil
Best brands of tung oil in 2025
Hope's
Hope's is renowned as one of the best producers of tung oil, offering 100% pure tung oil that is highly valued by craftsmen for its exceptional drying properties and deep penetration into wood fibers. This tung oil, imported from South America and China, forms a durable, low-gloss finish and is particularly resistant to moisture and alcoholic drinks. Hope's tung oil is suitable for unfinished or bare woods and is recognized for its beauty and tactile feel. The oil takes several days to fully cure, with some sources suggesting up to 30 days for complete curing. Hope's product is a clear, oil-based finish available in a 1-pint container.
Real Milk Paint Co.
The Real Milk Paint Company is renowned for producing 100% pure tung oil, free from heavy metals, additives, and petroleum distillates, making it an ideal choice for enhancing wood character and water resistance. This all-natural, food-safe oil is perfect for various applications, including wood countertops, butcher blocks, and outdoor furniture. It penetrates deeply into the wood, creating a flat, non-glossy finish and is ASTM Quality Tested for the highest quality. The company ensures the oil is light in color with the highest amount of reactive sites for optimal drying. With a market expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.02% by 2029, Real Milk Paint Co.'s pure tung oil aligns with the increasing demand for eco-friendly products. For more detailed information about their pure tung oil, visit their site.
Minwax
Minwax is a renowned brand in the woodworking industry, particularly for its Tung Oil Finish, which creates a remarkably durable, hand-rubbed luster in minutes. Despite the name, Minwax Tung Oil Finish does not contain actual tung oil but is a blend of varnish and linseed oil, with a significant content of mineral spirits, approximately 65%. This finish is highly resistant to staining and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice among craftsmen. It is often compared to other finishes like Danish Oil and wiping varnishes but stands out for its unique blend and performance. Minwax's products are backed by industry data and third-party surveys, solidifying their reputation as a top producer.
Sunnyside
Sunnyside Corporation, although not exclusively a tung oil producer, is a reputable company in the paint and hardware industry, having served for over 125 years since its founding in 1893. While they are known for their innovative chemical and solvent products, their involvement in the broader paint and coatings sector aligns with the use of tung oil in various applications. However, for specific tung oil products, other brands like Sutherland Welles Ltd. are more specialized. Tung oil itself is valued for its 30%-40% oil content in tung tree nuts and its quick-drying, water-resistant properties. For more information, visit the Sunnyside Corporation website.
Vermont Natural Coatings
Vermont Natural Coatings is a renowned producer of high-quality tung oil products, leveraging the unique properties of tung oil for its durability, water resistance, and quick-drying capabilities. The company's products are highly valued in the wood finishing and protection industry, particularly for enhancing wood appearance and providing robust protection against moisture, insects, and decay. As consumer preferences shift towards eco-friendly solutions, Vermont Natural Coatings benefits from the growing demand for natural and sustainable materials. The global tung oil market, expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.02% from 2023 to 2029, underscores the potential for brands like Vermont Natural Coatings to expand their market presence. With a focus on sustainability and performance, Vermont Natural Coatings is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing awareness of environmentally responsible choices.
Tried & True
Tung oil, derived from the seeds of the tung tree, is a high-quality, quick-drying oil used in various applications such as wood finishing, paints, and varnishes. Commercial production in the U.S. peaked in the 1950s, with 44.8 million pounds produced in 1958, but was significantly impacted by adverse weather conditions and hurricanes. Today, China is the largest producer, accounting for 83% of global tung oil production, followed by Paraguay and other countries. Tung oil is valued for its ability to penetrate wood deeply, providing a durable and water-resistant finish. It is also known for its elastic properties and resistance to marring. For more information about pure tung oil, you can visit the Real Milk Paint Company website.
Williamsville
There is no specific information available about a "Williamsville" brand being a producer of tung oil. However, tung oil, extracted from the nuts of the tung tree native to China, is a high-quality, quick-drying oil used in various applications such as lacquers, varnishes, paints, and wood finishes. Commercial tung oil production in the southeastern United States began in 1927 and peaked in 1952 with 132,000 tons of nuts producing 42 million pounds of oil. Tung trees typically begin bearing fruit in the third year and reach maximum production by the 10th to 12th year. The oil content in tung nuts is around 30% to 40% by weight. Tung oil is valued for its waterproof and protective properties. For more detailed information on tung oil, visit this Beginner's Guide to Pure Tung Oil.
Formby's
Formby's Tung Oil Finish, although discontinued, was highly regarded for its unique blend of tung oil and other fine penetrating oils, making it a high-quality varnish. It was not a pure tung oil but a wiping varnish with a balanced mix, often compared to products like Waterlox. The finish was known for its low gloss and durability, making it suitable for surfaces like dining tables. Despite the confusion over its ingredients, Formby's product contained tung oil along with mineral spirits, as confirmed by the company's technical department. This finish was particularly appreciated for its protective and durable qualities. For more discussions and potential alternatives, visit this woodworking forum.
Liberon
Liberon is a highly regarded brand in the tung oil market, known for its premium, pure, and natural tung oil products. Their tung oil is suitable for use on surfaces in contact with food, such as toys, cups, spoons, and bowls, and it provides a long-lasting matt finish that is highly resistant to water, heat, alcohol, and food acids. Liberon offers both pure tung oil and a quick-drying version, with the latter containing ethyl methyl ketoxime for faster drying times. The brand's products are popular among woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts due to their high quality and versatility. Liberon's tung oil is available in various sizes, including a 500ml option, making it a convenient choice for various applications. You can find more details about their Liberon Pure Tung Oil 500ml.
Jasco
Jasco is recognized as one of the top producers of tung oil, known for its high-quality and pure tung oil products. The brand is favored for its eco-friendly and sustainable offerings, aligning with the increasing demand for natural and environmentally responsible products. Tung oil from Jasco is prized for its durability, water-resistant properties, and quick-drying characteristics, making it a preferred choice for wood finishing and other applications. The global tung oil market, which Jasco is a part of, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.02% from 2023 to 2029, reaching a market value of USD 290.11 million by 2029. Jasco's products are available through various distribution channels, including online and offline platforms, catering to a wide range of consumers.
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