Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Johnson's Wax vs. Minwax vs. Annie Sloan Wax

With so many options, which do you choose?


 When dealing with Chalk Paint, waxing is the bear everyone is talking about. And believe me, what a bear it is!! But this post is not about 'how' to wax, but the pros and cons between three of the more common waxes used: Johnson's Paste Wax, Minwax, and Annie Sloan Wax (thanks to my grandmother for letting me have some of hers!).


So lets' look at the Pros and Cons of each.

Johnson's Paste Wax:

Pros:

  • Inexpensive at around just $5 a can at Lowes or Home Depot in the flooring section
  • Same finish as the Annie Sloan Wax
  • fairly soft
  • Quick drying
Cons:
  • Smell - harsh fumes

Minwax Paste Finishing Wax:

Pros:
  • Somewhat inexpensive at Lowes or Home Depot at around $10 a can
  • Appears to be the same finish 
  • Quick drying
Cons:
  • Smell
  • Can yellow furniture over time, especially lighter colored pieces
  • Harder consistency

Annie Sloan Wax:

Pros:
  • Butter like consistency - very smooth
  • Same finish as the others
  • Low odor (though still some odor, so ventilation and mask is still recommended)
Cons:
  • $$$ At about $25 a can!
  • Drying time is recommended to wait 24 hours

Overall, they all do a good job at protecting your finish and working well with the chalk paint. While I love Annie Sloan wax, the price of Johnson's paste wax is hard to contend with. When you're on a budget, Johnson's is great, but Annie Sloan is definitely a first in my book if you can afford the cost. The butter-like consistency and low odor is pretty great! 

Now...if only the learning curve in using it weren't so steep!


What's your experience with wax?




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