Linseed oil, also known as flaxseed oil, is one of the most popular natural finishes for wood furniture. Known for its ability to enhance grain, add a rich satin sheen, and protect against scratches and moisture, linseed oil is a favorite among woodworkers and eco-conscious consumers alike.
Whether you're restoring a vintage piece or finishing new wood furniture, linseed oil offers a timeless, easy-to-apply solution.
What Is Linseed Oil?
Linseed oil is derived from the seeds of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). As a drying oil, it penetrates deep into the wood grain and hardens as it cures, offering internal protection rather than forming a surface film like varnish or polyurethane.
This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a natural, hand-rubbed finish that still provides long-term durability with the option to easily reapply when needed.
Boiled Linseed Oil vs Raw Linseed Oil
One of the most important distinctions when choosing a linseed oil finish is whether it’s raw or boiled—and the name can be misleading.
What Is Boiled Linseed Oil (BLO)?
Boiled linseed oil (often abbreviated as BLO) does not actually go through a boiling process. Instead, it contains added siccatives—chemical drying agents that dramatically speed up the curing time. Without these, raw linseed oil can take weeks (or even months) to fully cure on wood surfaces.
Why Use Boiled Linseed Oil?
The addition of drying agents like mineral spirits, naptha, and dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether, as well as metal compounds like cobalt and manganese, makes BLO much more practical for furniture makers and DIYers. It typically dries in 24–72 hours, depending on humidity and temperature.
However, due to these additives, BLO is not considered food-safe and often comes with health warnings, such as the following:
“This product contains a chemical known to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.”
Learn more about the different types of Linseed Oil.
Is Boiled Linseed Oil Safe for Furniture?
Yes—but with caveats. If you’re purchasing wood furniture finished with BLO, it’s a good idea to:
- Ask the maker or retailer about the brand of linseed oil used
- Review the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for ingredients and health information
- Confirm whether the finish is safe for use around food, children, or pets
For anyone applying it themselves, always use in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Applying Linseed Oil to Wood
Whether using raw or boiled linseed oil, the application process is simple but requires patience:
- Sand the wood surface smoothly and remove all dust.
- Apply a thin coat of oil with a lint-free cloth or brush.
- Allow it to penetrate for 15–30 minutes, then wipe off excess.
- Let it dry thoroughly between coats (especially important with raw oil).
- Apply additional coats as desired for richer color and deeper protection.
For best results, avoid over-application and ensure the surface is fully dry before using.
Should I use Linseed Oil?
Linseed oil is a classic finish that brings out the natural beatify of wood while providing long-term protection. Just be sure to understand the differences between raw and boiled options before diving into a project. For more about wood furniture care, be sure to refer to our Fine Wood Furniture Care Instructions page to check out the variety of products we recommend while maintaining your solid wood furniture pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between boiled linseed oil and regular linseed oil?
The primary difference is drying time. Raw linseed oil takes weeks to cure, while boiled linseed oil includes chemical drying agents (siccatives) that reduce cure time to just a few days. These additives make BLO more practical but may introduce health concerns.
Are flaxseed oil and linseed oil the same?
Yes—both come from the flax plant. Flaxseed oil is typically food-grade and sold for cooking or supplements, while linseed oil is processed for use as a wood finish or industrial product. Never use industrial linseed oil for food applications.
What’s the difference between boiled linseed oil and tung oil?
Tung oil is derived from the seeds of the tung tree and produces a harder, more water-resistant finish than boiled linseed oil. It’s also less likely to yellow over time. BLO dries faster but can darken the wood and may require more frequent maintenance.
Learn more about linseed oil vs. tung oil.
