Help. Pine bench restoration

[eggandchipsplease]

I’m renovating a fitted pine bench but don’t like the dark pine colour. Would be happy with a paler antique pine finish but struggling to get remove all the dark orange stain. Do the wise DIYers of Mumsnet think I should just paint it ( thinking F and B Jitney). Has anyone successfully stripped the old stain off a bench like this. ? Photos welcome xx

You could try Liberon's Wood Bleacher. It certainly removes black water marks from the grain. It is a mild acid and quite expensive.

'Wood bleach is a chemical treatment used to lighten the natural color of bare wood, remove stubborn dark stains (like rust, alcohol, ink, and water damage), and reduce harsh undertones. It achieves this while preserving the natural grain and texture, providing an even, blank canvas for new stains or clear finishes. '

I’ll have a look. Thank you