The length of time stain can sit depends on whether you're talking about wood stain in a can or a stain (like a clothing stain) on a surface.
Wood Stain Storage
Wood stain, when stored properly, can last for several years. This is assuming it's kept in a sealed container and away from extreme temperatures. Always stir the stain well before use, especially if it's been sitting for a while. [Source: 22-Nov-2020 (unspecified source)]
Other Types of Stains
The question "How long can stain sit?" is ambiguous. It doesn't specify the type of stain. For other types of stains (e.g., clothing stains, carpet stains), the length of time the stain should be left before treatment varies greatly depending on:
- The type of stain: A protein-based stain (blood, milk) will behave differently than a dye-based stain (ink, juice).
- The material stained: Fabric, carpet, and upholstery each react differently to stains.
- The stain's age: The longer a stain sits, the harder it may be to remove.
For optimal stain removal, it's best to treat spills as soon as possible.
