How to Sand Between Coats of Polyurethane or Paint on Furniture: Smooth Finish Made Easy

For ultra-smooth wood furniture finishes, sanding between coats of paint or polyurethane is essential. It removes dust, evens out brush marks, and helps the next layer bond better. In this long-tail, SEO-optimized DIY guide, we’ll show you exactly how to sand between coats when finishing furniture, and which sandpaper grit gives the best results.

Why Sand Between Coats?

Each coat of paint or polyurethane raises the grain and can leave behind tiny bubbles or streaks. Lightly sanding levels the surface and gives the next layer a clean grip—especially critical for high-gloss or clear finishes.

Best Sandpaper Grits for Between-Coat Sanding

• 320 grit sandpaper: Ideal for sanding between coats of water-based polyurethane or furniture paint.
• 400 grit sandpaper: Best for oil-based finishes or final sanding before wax or polish.

Step-by-Step: How to Sand Between Coats

1. Let the previous coat dry fully—usually 2–6 hours for paint, 6–24 for polyurethane.
2. Lightly sand the surface with 320–400 grit sandpaper using even pressure. Don’t overdo it—just a quick pass is enough.
3. Wipe the surface clean with a tack cloth or damp lint-free cloth.
4. Apply the next coat with a brush, foam applicator, or sprayer.
5. Repeat until your finish is smooth and even.

Tips for a Smooth Finish

• Use silicon carbide paper for better durability and cleaner sanding.
• Hand sand for better control—especially on flat panels or edges.
• Use a vacuum or microfiber cloth to avoid trapping sanding dust in the next coat.

FAQs

• Do I have to sand between every coat? Yes—especially with clear coats or high-gloss paint.
• Can I use a sanding sponge instead? Yes—for curved surfaces or quick touch-ups, it works well.

Watch & Learn

Get ultra-fine grit sheets at eQualle and read more furniture finishing tips on our DIY blog.