Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - refinish stairs that were partially painted

I would like to refinish my oak stairs. The house is about 30 years old and the stairs were carpeted with white paint on the exposed wood. After removing the carpet I have stripped the paint (and some of my skin) twice and sanded, There is still residual white paint in the grain of the wood. How do I get the residual paint off the wood? Would it be better to try to match the painted areas with a "white wash" and than stain and refinish.

I've had the same problem on refinishing oak furniture. I applied the chemical stripper and then rubbed with steel wool to get it out. In severe cases I even used a wire brush. Make sure you wear some good rubber gloves for the job. It worked great for the furniture. You will definitely have to sand again, though.