White haze can develop when preparing an existing lacquer finish for re-coating. The haze needs to be removed before applying another finish.
To correct during oil based applications such as Gel Stain, sand lightly with sandpaper or a gray Scotch-Brite pad and then wipe down the surface with mineral spirits. Once the mineral spirits has dried completely, apply Gel Stain.
To correct for water-based applications, just sand lightly or scrub with a gray Scotch-Brite pad and wipe off the dust. Never use mineral spirits when using a water-based finish.