I found a web site offering the pads for sale, but I have not ever tried this process of putting down stain. It claims to get you off your knees and I'm all for that. Any comments.

Here's a way to stain standing up. Using a painting pad (like Padco) on a pole, apply the stain in sections going with the grain. Apply a thin even coat and no holidays. Don't do more than say 75 sq.ft. Then go ahead and walk on the stained floor and buff the stain off around the edges by hand out about 6" or so using rags. Then walk back to the unstained area and nab the buffer to buff off the rest of the stain in the field. You could try the stain pads you mentioned. I use old bath towels. When you walk onto the raw, unstained floor area, you'll need to clean your shoes so as not to leave footprints. I've done it this way off and on since 1980. I'm not saying it's the best way; just a way for consideration. It does get you off your knees.