Can You Apply Latex Stain Over Oil Based Stain?

In general, a latex stain adheres properly when applied over an oil-based stain. Oil stain goes deep into the wood, leaving less stain on the surface. Therefore, the latex stain is able to stick to the wood fibers and create a smooth finish over the top.

Latex stain does not penetrate wood like an oil-based one does. If oil-based stain is placed over latex, the new stain collects on the surface and does not properly sink into the wood.