White spots in wood after clear stain?

White spots on wood after applying a clear stain often result from moisture trapped in the wood or from a reaction between the stain and the wood's natural oils. These spots can also occur if the stain was applied too thickly or if there was contamination on the surface before application. To remedy this, you can sand the affected area lightly and reapply the stain, ensuring the wood is clean and dry beforehand. Using a pre-stain conditioner may also help achieve a more uniform finish.