Is Steel Wool Good for Polishing?

Honestly, I think steel wool is overrated. It can rust and is flammable. Plus, it can get trapped in your skin or in the wood. There are better products, like synthetic pads from 3M. These come in different colors and are great for applying finishes or cleaning up dust.

I’d suggest trying the Scotch-Brite Light Cleansing Hand Pad 7445 instead. It offers a similar grit (0000) but without the risk of metal fibers getting stuck in your project.

If you’re using oak, I recommend switching to brass wool. Steel fibers can leave stains in the wood. I typically use steel wool with oil finishes, just rub with the grain, let it sit, and then wipe with a lint-free rag.

Using steel wool can generally give a great finish, but you might want to ensure that it’s not rusty when you use it. It shouldn't leave any residue that could cause rust, so as long as you’re cautious, you should be okay!