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How to Remove Fingerprints From an Unstained Douglas Fir Door

A fine wood, such as that from a Douglas fir, creates a durable door that adds beauty to your home. Most Douglas fir doors are finished with paint or stain for aesthetics and to preserve the wood. If you're getting ready to stain or finish your Douglas fir door it's important to remove fingerprints and other marks to avoid having them become a permanent part of the finish. You can do this with proper techniques and supplies that prepare the Douglas fir wood.

Things You'll Need

  • 180-grit sandpaper
  • Electric sander
  • Wet/dry vacuum
  • Clean cloths
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure 180-grit sandpaper in your electric sander before plugging it in.

    • 2
      An electric sander makes the task go more quickly.

      Hold your sander near the top of the Douglas fir door. Turn on the sander and move it over the surface in the direction of the wood grain. Work on a 1- to 2-foot section at a time to remove fingerprints and other markings from handling.

    • 3

      Repeat Step 2 to remove fingerprints from the entire door surface.

    • 4

      Remove dust from the sanding process by vacuuming the door surface with a wet/dry vacuum.

    • 5

      Wipe the surface of your Douglas fir door with a dry cloth to remove any remaining dust.