5 Non-Toxic Finishes for Eco-Conscious Woodworkers

   Freddie Hughes - Crafted From Embers - 4th May 2025 

Finishing Without the Fumes

As an eco-conscious woodworker, the materials you choose matter—from responsibly sourced timber to waste-free practices. But one aspect of sustainable woodworking is often overlooked: the finish.

Traditional wood finishes can contain harmful solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and synthetic resins that off-gas for weeks, affecting indoor air quality and the environment. Fortunately, there’s a better way.

In this guide, we’ll explore five natural, non-toxic wood finishes that protect your projects while honoring your commitment to sustainability. These finishes are safe, effective, and beautiful—and they connect your craft more deeply to nature.

1. Pure Tung Oil

What is it?

Tung oil is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the tung tree, native to China. It’s been used for centuries to protect wood surfaces and boat hulls due to its water-resistant properties.

Why It’s Eco-Friendly

• 100% natural and biodegradable

• Contains no VOCs or petrochemicals (when not blended with additives)

• Derived from renewable resources

• Safe for food-contact surfaces (when fully cured)

How to Use It

Apply with a cloth in thin layers, allowing each coat to fully absorb before adding the next. Tung oil hardens through oxidation, forming a flexible, water-resistant barrier.

Curing Time: 7–30 days (depending on conditions)
Best For: Indoor furniture, cutting boards, wooden toys, and surfaces that need water resistance

Pro Tip:

Look for “100% pure tung oil.” Many commercial blends are cut with mineral spirits or dryers—check the label.

2. Raw Linseed Oil (Flaxseed Oil)

What is it?

Extracted from flax seeds, raw linseed oil has been used for centuries as a natural wood preservative. It penetrates deeply into the grain, enhancing color and protecting from within.

Why It’s Eco-Friendly

• Plant-based and fully biodegradable

• No solvents or harmful additives

• Long shelf life with proper storage

How to Use It

Apply in thin coats and wipe away excess. It takes longer to cure than boiled linseed oil, but it’s free of chemical drying agents.

Curing Time: Up to 2–3 weeks
Best For: Rustic furniture, indoor decorative wood, heritage projects

Note:

Avoid “boiled linseed oil” unless it’s specifically labeled as non-toxic—most contain chemical driers.

3. Beeswax and Mineral Oil Blend

What is it?

A classic combination of natural beeswax and food-grade mineral oil, this finish is ideal for surfaces that need a soft, hand-buffed sheen and tactile warmth.

Why It’s Eco-Friendly

• Completely food-safe and non-toxic

• Beeswax is a renewable, biodegradable byproduct

• Mineral oil is stable and won't go rancid

How to Use It

Gently melt the beeswax with mineral oil and apply with a lint-free cloth. Buff to a soft finish. Reapply as needed to maintain moisture and luster.

Curing Time: No full “curing” — absorbs quickly
Best For: Butcher blocks, kitchenware, toys, small decorative items

Customization Tip:

You can infuse the blend with essential oils like lemon or lavender for a pleasant scent and antibacterial properties.

4. Shellac (Flake or Liquid)

What is it?

Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac bug, dissolved in alcohol to form a protective wood finish. Though animal-derived, it’s considered sustainable due to low environmental impact and responsible harvesting.

Why It’s Eco-Friendly

• Biodegradable and non-toxic when dried

• Very low VOC content

• Derived from a renewable source with minimal processing

How to Use It

Apply in thin, even coats with a cloth pad or brush. It dries quickly and can be layered for a glossier finish. Shellac can also be used as a base coat under other finishes.

Curing Time: Dries in minutes, fully cured in 1–2 days
Best For: Interior furniture, decorative pieces, musical instruments

Good to Know:

Shellac is alcohol-soluble even when dry—avoid using on surfaces exposed to alcohol or heat (like bar tops).

5. Hardwax Oil (Natural Blends)

What is it?

Hardwax oils combine natural plant oils (like sunflower, soybean, or linseed) with waxes to create a durable, breathable, and low-sheen finish. Many newer eco-friendly brands now offer solvent-free blends.

Why It’s Eco-Friendly

• Contains no synthetic resins or harmful solvents

• Offers a low-VOC, plant-based alternative to polyurethane

• Long-lasting protection with a natural appearance

How to Use It

Apply with a brush, roller, or rag in thin coats. Allow to penetrate and then buff. Most blends are quick-drying and need only 1–2 coats.

Curing Time: Touch-dry in hours, fully cured in 5–10 days
Best For: Floors, high-use furniture, countertops

Recommended Brands:

Look for companies like Osmo, Rubio Monocoat, or Odie’s Oil, which offer non-toxic or near-zero VOC formulas.

How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Project

Finishing with Purpose

Choosing a non-toxic finish isn’t just about your health—it’s about the health of your home, your community, and the planet. Each natural oil or wax you apply tells a story of respect: for the tree that became your timber, for the people using your piece, and for the Earth that provides.

At Crafted From Embers, we believe that every step of the crafting process should reflect mindfulness, care, and sustainability—and that includes the final, finishing touch.

Want More Eco-Friendly Woodworking Tips?

Explore our full collection of tutorials, materials guides, and sustainable project ideas at craftedfromembers.co.uk—because making with heart starts with making responsibly.

Author: Freddie Hughes - Founder, Craftsman and Columnist of Crafted From Embers