The Best Non-Toxic Wood Stains for Raised Garden Beds
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Our Favorite Non-Toxic Wood Stain
Our Favorite Non-Toxic Sealer
Our Favorite Non-Toxic Primer
Why Choosing a Non-Toxic Wood Stain Matters?
Do you spend time and effort researching and tending to your garden? Do you choose organic soils and prioritize the health and nutrients of your garden, working hard to make it as fruitful as possible? If so, you'll want to make sure you aren't unknowingly introducing hazardous chemicals into your soil and contaminating your crops - say no to those toxic wood treatments, stains and finishes!
Whether or not you prioritize organic gardening when growing your own food, it is important to note that many paints and stains contain hazardous chemicals. These chemicals can off-gas into the air that we breathe, and what's most concerning is that they can also leech into our garden soil and food. The stain and finish you choose to use will come in direct contact with your soil, which is why it is so important to use wood stains without any toxic chemicals for your garden boxes. You already put so much time, love and effort into planning and tending to your vegetable gardens, so make sure to use non-toxic stains for your planter beds to avoid those harmful chemicals leeching into your hard earned yield!
Where Non-Toxic Meets Sustainability . . .
The great thing about choosing wood stains and protectants that are non-toxic is that they are also eco-friendlier. When we avoid chemicals that are hazardous to ourselves, we are protecting the planet from these hazardous chemicals - because what is toxic to us is also toxic to our earth. Whenever we can choose an eco wood treatment option, mother earth thanks us!
What Can I Do if I Already Have a Toxic or Oil-Based Stain on My Raised Garden Bed?
This AFM SafeCoat Transitional Primer (affiliate link) was created to solve a problem just like this, without the use of additional toxic chemicals! If there is a previous coat of stain or paint on your current garden bed, don't fear! You can apply this primer directly on top of any oil based stains or paints and then apply your choice of water-based finishes once it dries and cures. This is one of the best ways to remedy and protect your garden from hazardous chemicals and harmful residues!
Check out the AFM data sheet for more information.
Some Helpful Tips . . .
When researching which non-toxic option works best for you, take note of the recommended prep methods, use of primers/sealants, number of additional coats, and dry/cure times. If you want a nearly maintenance free garden box for a long time, it is essential to follow the manufacturer instructions for long-lasting protection from water and UV damage...trust me, it's worth it!
It is of extreme importance to follow any dry times/how to properly discard items saturated with oils, as there is risk for spontaneous combustion. Take care to read all instructions on any labels and inserts!
The Best Non-Toxic Wood Stains and Seals for Garden Beds
1. Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey Exterior Penetrating Stain - Lakeside Cedar - Gallon
I love where non-toxic and sustainability meet - and its right here! This professional-grade wood stain is created from renewed and recycled whey - how cool! It can be used for exterior applications on new wood, pressure-treated wood and weathered wood. It provides a rich color that will surely add a beautiful touch to your garden while protecting from UV rays! There are over ten color stain options to choose from - so if you're looking for a specific shade these water-based stains are a great option for you! The can is also made from recycled materials, and can be recycled again after use!
Ultra-Low VOC
Non-flammable
Odor free
Provides UV protection
Protects against water damage, mold and mildew
(this can also be used on wood decks and chicken coops)
(affiliate link)
2. AFM SafeCoat, DynoSeal
The AFM DynoSeal SafeCoat is an all weather, water-proof and vapor-proof coating and sealer that is great for outdoor wood surfaces. This product adheres well to wood and dries black. I would recommend using this to seal the inside of your planter boxes/raised garden beds - it is extremely durable when applied per the manufacturers instructions!
Very-low VOC
Low odor
Formaldehyde-free
Mildewcide-free
Fungicide-free
Check out the AFM data sheet for more information.
3. AFM SafeCoat Naturals Penetrating Oil
Another great choice is the Safecoat Naturals Clear Penetrating Oil. This natural product is a great way to protect any untreated wood you are using for your raised bed. It is an organic, non-toxic, low-voc, biodegradable and non-photochemically reactive plant based wood sealer. This clear protective oil can be used on most unsealed wood (new wood or weathered wood).
It is made from natural oils including 100% organic:
Flax oil
Linseed oil
Hemp oil
Soybean oil
Isoaliphate
This product is also:
Cobalt-free
Lead-free
Aromatic hydrocarbon-free
Mildewcide-free
Fungicide-free
Preservative-free
Check out the AFM data sheet for more information.
(affiliate link)
Didn’t Find What You Were Looking for?
Thankfully, there are other non-toxic paint, stain, primer and sealant options on the market. If this list didn't have exactly what you were looking for, try to search for options that are either zero VOC, very low-VOC or ultra low-VOC. Ensuring the products are also free from formaldehyde, lead, mildewcides, fungicides and preservatives will be helpful in selecting a product that is healthier for both you and the planet! Happy gardening!
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