Safety

• Removing stain from any wood surface requires the use of a paint stripping solvent. This solvent emits harmful fumes that pose serious health risks. They can also burn bare skin or, at minimum, cause painful rashes. Before you attempt to remove stain from any surface, put on a protective respirator and a pair of rubber gloves. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
  
  

Protection

• Once you apply paint stripping solvent to the composite wood, the stain will begin to run. If adjacent surfaces are left unprotected, they may end up marred with irreparable staining. Cover these areas with plastic drop cloths. For extra safety, overlap the plastic with thick canvas drop cloths.
  
  

Application

• Proper technique is crucial. Apply the paint stripping solvent, using clean cloth rags. Once you've let the solvent soak into the composite wood for several seconds, scrub the surface, using a nylon pad. Continue this process until the wood is lightened to your taste, or all of the stain is removed.
  
  

Cleanup

• Because paint stripping solvent evaporates relatively quickly, you don't have to wipe it from the composite wood. Store your used rags in a sealed 5-gallon bucket. Take your rags to a recycling station, where they will be handled by knowledgeable professionals. Don't store your oily rags in a basement or garage, or they may spontaneously catch fire.