How long do you leave wax on furniture before buffing?
John Thompson
Updated on January 18, 2026
The Wax will be dry to the touch very quickly but take longer to harden or 'cure'. The 'curing' process can take 5 – 21 days depending on ambient temperature. If you want to achieve a really good shine, allow around 24 hours before buffing. Annie Sloan Soft Wax is food-safe when completely cured.
How long do you wait to buff wax?
Wait until the solvents in the wax evaporate before buffing.Although drying time can take as little as 10 to 20 minutes, a couple of hours or even overnight can be best. The wax is ready to buff when it no longer feels cool or damp to the touch.