How to Strip Paint from a Door

Doors accumulate more paint layers than almost any other surface in a home — repainted every few years over decades, they can end up with 10 or more layers that obscure the door's detail and cause it to stick in the frame. Stripping a door back to bare wood reveals its original character and gives you a perfect surface for a fresh, lasting finish. Here's how to do it.

Tools You'll Need

• Citristrip paint stripping gel — ideal for doors with detailed panels and moldings
• Paint scraper set — multiple widths for flat panels and detailed edges
• Heat gun — for flat door sections with thick paint
• 220-grit sanding sponge — for final smoothing
• Respirator mask
• Chemical resistant gloves
• Canvas drop cloth

Step 1: Remove the Door

Remove the door from its hinges and lay it flat on sawhorses or a workbench. Working on a horizontal surface makes stripping much easier and prevents stripper from running. Remove all hardware — hinges, handles, and locks.

Step 2: Apply Citristrip to the Flat Panels

Apply a thick coat of Citristrip to the entire door face. Cover with plastic wrap and leave for 4–24 hours. For doors with many paint layers, overnight is best.

Step 3: Scrape the Flat Sections

Use a wide paint scraper to remove the softened paint from the flat panel sections. Work with the wood grain. For the detailed moldings and edges, use a narrow scraper, wooden skewer, or old toothbrush.

Step 4: Use the Heat Gun for Stubborn Areas

For any areas where the paint hasn't fully softened, use a heat gun to soften the remaining paint and scrape immediately. This is especially useful on the flat stiles and rails of the door.

Step 5: Clean, Sand, and Finish

Wipe down with mineral spirits to remove all stripper residue. Once dry, sand with progressively finer grits, finishing with a 220-grit sanding sponge. Apply primer and your chosen paint or stain for a beautiful, lasting finish.

Stripping a door is a satisfying project that reveals the door's original character. Remove it from the frame, work horizontally, and use Citristrip for the detailed areas. The result is a door that looks and functions like new.