Wear gloves, eye protection, and a respirator
Work in a well-ventilated area
Test the method on a small hidden spot first
Use a chemical stripper made for polyurethane
Brush on a thick, even coat of stripper
Let it sit for the recommended time
Scrape softened polyurethane with a plastic or metal scraper
Reapply stripper to stubborn areas
Use steel wool or abrasive pads for detailed areas
Wipe residue with mineral spirits or the stripper’s recommended cleaner
Sand the wood after stripping
Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and move to finer grits
Vacuum and tack-cloth the surface to remove dust
Repeat stripping if polyurethane remains in pores or corners
Dispose of stripper residue and rags safely according to local rules