What are the best stain covering primers?

There are a wide-range of stain covering paints, however at The Paint Shed we recommend you opt for a stain blocking primer rather than a stain covering top coat as this allows you to choose any paint you desire as your top coat. Below we have outlined our top 3 stain blocking primers, all of which are part of our Zinsser range as they are tried and tested amongst our professional decorators and always exceed expectations. All of the Zinsser primers provide different benefits and uses, for further information read our What Zinsser Primer to use article.

What Different Types of Stain Blocking Primers Are Available?

Shellac based primers - These types of primers tend to provide similar benefits and properties of oil-based primers, however do not include the longer drying times. Shellac based primers that adhere to tricky surfaces, like glossy plastics, metals, ceramic tiles and varnished surfaces. We’ve dedicated another article to Shellac Based Primers where you can learn more about their properties. 

Water based primers - These primers tend to be sometimes easier to use than shellac and oil-based primers, they also have less odours and are environmentally friendly. 

Oil based primers - These type of primers tend to be most aggressive when it comes to blocking stains, however they tend to have more odours than their water-based and shellac counterparts. Extended drying times can also be a downfall of oil-based primers.

Our Best Stain Blocking Primers