I have posted on my steep waterlox learning curve in another thread, but this is a more general question, so I'm asking it here:

if I am concerned that an "unfinished" wood product bought from a chain store may actually have some wax impregnated in the surface, how can I check to find out for sure?

What is the best method for removing the wax and prepping it for a penetrating oil finish?

I've read several different things about removing wax, but some of the instructions are contradictory (use steel wool, don't use steel wool). I'm curious to know what experiences folks on here have had. The surface in question is a piece of birch butcher-block purchased at Menards.

thanks