Can I stain inexpensive paneling?

Don't sand it! Wipe it down with a well wrung, lint-free cloth dipped in a no-rinse degreaser like Zep 505. Wipe with a dry cloth. Prime and paint the surface. Most installed panelings in mobile homes are NOT made of wood, and any color or grain is embossed paper or vinyl product. I have had pleasing results with a careful paint job.

I use benjarmin moore fresh start for things including panels before painting..great stuff..

Use a liquid sander first. You can buy it at any hardware store. Rub it on with an old t-shirt or cover your arm with an old sock to apply.

Take a look at this video. The guy puts a stain on white paint that looks like wood. I don't know why you couldn't do this on your paneling.

Of course I'd ask someone at Homedepot or Lowes that might know best, before I bought it.

i wallpapered over paneling in a trailer successfully. It turned out beautifully but wasn’t cheap.

I’ve given this answer many times in this forum. But I love, love, love Rustoleum Cabinet Transformations. No sanding no priming you just clean the wall off and paint it the color you want. It comes in a variety of colors that are mixed at the home-improvement store, then you can glaze it to give it an antique look or a different texture.

You can use gel stain over the paneling.

http://www.minwax.com/how-to-finish-wood/change-stain-color-with-polyshades/

I'm so sorry. I guess I wasn't paying attention when I tried to post the link. Here it is...

No the surface is plastic. Prime and paint.