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• How should Caustic soda, Washing Soda and Oxalic Acid be used to strip paint or varnish?

Caustic Soda, Washing Soda and Oxalic Acid are all in crystal form and as such the dilution is the same when used in conjunction with each other. The recommended dilution is 125g-250g to 5 litres warm water (add slowly). When using Caustic Soda to strip paint off wood, apply the dilution and leave for approximately 15min or until paint starts to lift. Remove paint with a scraper and wash off with water. NB. When using caustic soda, either Washing Soda or Oxalic Acid has to be used to neutralize the Caustic Soda. Use Oxalic Acid if the wood colour is to be lightened simultaneously. Always use the same dilution as was used for the Caustic Soda. Apply the neutralizing agent for 15 min and wash off with water. Washing Soda can be used to strip varnish off wood. In this case no neutralizing agent is required.