Top Varnish Brands: Quality Choices for a Flawless Finish

When it comes to varnishes, choosing the right brand can make all the difference in achieving a flawless finish for your wood projects. There are several top-notch brands in the market known for their quality, durability, and ease of application. Companies like Varathane, Minwax, and Rust-Oleum have consistently ranked high among both professionals and DIY enthusiasts for their superior protection and aesthetic appeal. To help you make an informed choice, we invite you to explore our comprehensive list of the best varnish brands below.

Illustration of varnish

Best brands of varnish in 2025

Minwax

Minwax, founded in 1904 by Arthur B. Harrison, is a leading brand in the wood finishing industry, particularly renowned for its high-quality varnishes. The company's innovative approaches, such as the development of a liquid, brush-on paraffin formula and the introduction of the first modern "quick-drying" wood finish, have set industry standards. Minwax's products, including the Performance Series Fast-Dry Varnish, offer a rich, amber tone and fast drying times, with the varnish drying to the touch in 30 minutes and ready for recoating in as little as 3 hours. The brand's market dominance was further solidified through strategic marketing efforts, resulting in a 40% year-over-year sales increase. Minwax's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a trusted name in both professional and DIY wood finishing projects.

Varathane

Varathane, a renowned brand name of polyurethane varnish, has been a trusted choice since 1958, particularly for wood, furniture, cabinet, and floor finishes. It is known for its easy application, clear finish, and mild smell, making it a favorite among polymer clay artists for over 30 years. Varathane is available in both oil-based and water-based versions, with the water-based variety recommended for polymer clay use due to its quicker drying time and lack of volatile compounds. The product is produced by the Rustoleum Corporation and can be found in many hardware stores and online platforms in the US, Canada, and the UK. Varathane comes in various finishes, including gloss, semi-gloss, satin, and matte.

General Finishes

General Finishes, a leading manufacturer of innovative water-based and oil-based finishes, was established in 1928 and is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation. The company transitioned to water-based finishes in 1992, a decision that significantly enhanced its product line and led to recognition as a top innovator in the field by 2000. General Finishes operates from a 30,000-square-foot facility in East Troy, Wisconsin, expanded to 55,000 square feet by 2014, and employs over 40 people as of 2017. Their products are designed for durability and ease of use, with specific recommendations for spray application, such as reducing the finish by 10 to 15% with an extender in hot or dry climates. General Finishes offers a wide range of products, including topcoats, stains, and glazes, all proudly made in the USA. For more information, visit their official website.

Rust-Oleum

Rust-Oleum is a leading brand in the paint and varnish industry, known for its high-quality products that enhance and protect various surfaces. The company has seen significant revenue growth, with its revenue exceeding $1 billion as of October 2024. Rust-Oleum's innovations, such as the Custom Spray 5-in-1 introduced in April 2023, have contributed to its market presence, particularly in the aerosol paints segment which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2023 to 2030. The brand dominates the North American market and is a major player in the global aerosol paints market, which was valued at $212.7 million in 2022, with Asia Pacific accounting for 34.0% of the market share. Rust-Oleum's products are widely used in industries such as automotive, construction, and DIY projects. For more information, visit their official website.

ZAR

ZAR is a renowned brand in the varnish and wood finishing industry, known for its high-quality products that provide a tough, abrasion-resistant finish. Their Interior Oil Base Poly, for example, is designed for hardwood floors, cabinets, and furniture, offering a durable finish with a spread rate of 500-600 square feet per gallon and a recoat time of 2 hours. ZAR products are widely used due to their ease of application and excellent performance. The brand's commitment to quality has made it a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. With its extensive range of finishes, ZAR continues to be a leading choice in the wood finishing market. For more detailed product specifications, you can view ZAR's product data sheet.

Cabot

Cabot, a renowned brand in the wood stain and varnish industry, has been a leader since its founding in 1877 by Samuel Cabot IV. Known for its high-quality coal tar-based products, Cabot Stain is a flagship brand that has maintained its reputation over the years. In the U.S. wood stain market, oil-based stains, which include Cabot's products, account for 26.1% of the overall market share as of 2024. The company's products are widely used for wood preservation and finishing, with a strong presence in the market. Cabot's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a preferred choice among consumers.

Behr

Behr is a leading brand in the paint and varnish market, known for its high-quality products. As of March 2024, Behr holds a 30% unit share and 27% dollar share in the paint market, with a significant increase in brand consideration rates, up 1.0 point from the previous year. The brand's Water-Based Spar Urethane offers UV protection and a durable clear finish, ideal for residential applications and outdoor use. Behr's products are widely available, with Home Depot being the leading retailer, holding a 36% unit share and 31% dollar share in the paint market. Behr's commitment to quality is reflected in its limited warranty, which covers product performance for one year from the date of purchase.

Deft

Deft is a renowned brand in the paint and varnish industry, particularly noted for its high-quality products like the Deft Interior Oil-Based Fast Dry Stain, which is part of a one-day wood finishing system and offers quick drying times, with the ability to recoat or topcoat in as little as two hours. This stain enhances wood grain with rich, semi-transparent colors and is VOC compliant, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It is suitable for various interior wood projects, including floors, trim, doors, and furniture. The product features light-fast pigments that are UV stable and resist color fading, ensuring long-lasting results. With its fast dry formula and professional-grade performance, Deft stands out as a reliable option for wood finishing needs.

Bona

Bona AB is a renowned Swedish family-owned company, founded in 1919, that has established itself as a leading producer of high-quality varnishes and floor care products. Known for pioneering waterborne finishes in 1979 and patenting them in 1982, Bona prioritizes eco-friendly manufacturing processes and offers GreenGuard-certified products that comply with strict indoor air quality regulations. With production facilities in Sweden, Germany, the USA, and China, Bona has a global presence in over 70 countries through its subsidiaries and distributors. The company has consistently invested in research and development, ensuring its products meet the evolving demands of the wood flooring industry. Bona's commitment to sustainability is evident, with a significant reduction in environmental impact, such as a 78% reduction in emissions for wooden floors and a 90% reduction for PVC/resilient floors.

Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore is a leading brand in the paint and varnish market, known for its high-quality products and innovative formulations. As of March 2024, Benjamin Moore holds a 19% unit share and 31% dollar share in the paint market, showcasing its strong market presence. The brand is particularly renowned for its Regal Select line, which offers excellent coverage, washability, and mildew resistance, making it a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Benjamin Moore's products, such as the Stays Clear coating, provide durable and clear finishes that do not scratch or yellow over time. The brand's commitment to low-VOC and water-based paints ensures environmental friendliness and safety for users.