Refinish Wooden Bed Frame with 180, 320, and 1200 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden bed frames can accumulate scratches, dull spots, and discoloration over years of use. Using 180, 320, and 1200 grit sandpaper, you can restore the smoothness and beauty of the wood while preparing it for a fresh finish.

Why This Method Works

180 grit removes surface imperfections and worn finish. 320 grit smooths the wood for a uniform application of stain or paint. 1200 grit burnishes the surface for a refined, silky touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 180 grit (25-pack), 320 grit (50-pack), 1200 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 180 grit: Remove worn finish and imperfections. (25-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish application. (50-pack)
• 1200 grit: Burnish for a refined surface. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Disassemble the bed frame if possible, and clean it thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 180 grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and smooth out any scratches.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface for the final sanding stage.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 1200 grit sandpaper for a silky, professional-grade feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the bed frame, letting each coat dry completely before applying the next.

Special Considerations

Use hand sanding on carved or rounded parts to preserve their shape and detail.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for consistent results.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes to prevent scratches from dust particles.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for better durability and appearance.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly to maintain the finish.
• Avoid dragging heavy items against the frame to prevent scratches.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 180 to 1200 grit will leave visible sanding marks.
• Will 1200 grit make the bed frame shiny? Shine comes from the topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted bed frames? Yes—start with 180 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your wooden bed frame back to life.