Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets with eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (80, 180, 320, 600 Grits)

Giving your kitchen cabinets a new look doesn’t have to involve expensive replacements. With eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9 x 11 inches), you can strip away old finishes, smooth surfaces, and prepare wood for paint or stain. The right grit sequence makes the difference between a patchy DIY job and a professional-quality finish.

Why Sanding Matters for Cabinets

Cabinets endure heavy daily use, grease buildup, and moisture. Sanding not only removes old paint or varnish but also provides the ideal surface for primer and paint to adhere. Without sanding, new coatings may peel or bubble prematurely.

Essential Tools

• Sanding block or orbital sander
• eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9x11 in)
• Degreaser or mild cleaner
• Vacuum or tack cloth
• Primer, paint, or stain
• Protective gloves and mask

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 Grit (25-pack) — For stripping old finishes and smoothing damaged areas.
• 180 Grit (50-pack) — For leveling after coarse sanding and removing scratches.
• 320 Grit (100-pack) — For fine sanding before primer or paint application.
• 600 Grit (25-pack) — For ultra-smooth finish between coats.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Remove cabinet doors and hardware. Label hinges and handles for easy reinstallation.
2. Clean thoroughly. Degrease the surface to remove kitchen oils and dirt.
3. Strip old coatings. Start with 80 grit to take off varnish, paint, or stubborn buildup.
4. Smooth with 180 grit. Even out the surface and eliminate deep sanding marks.
5. Refine with 320 grit. Prepare the surface for optimal primer adhesion.
6. Prime and paint. Apply your chosen primer, followed by paint or stain.
7. Finish with 600 grit. Lightly sand between coats for a flawless finish.

Special Cases

For laminate cabinets, use finer grits (180–320) only to avoid damaging the surface. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent scratches.
• Use wet sanding for finer grits like 600 to reduce dust and achieve a polished look.
• Vacuum between sanding stages to keep dust out of paint layers.
• Apply two coats of primer for best durability in high-use kitchens.

Aftercare

• Wipe cabinets regularly with a damp cloth.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners that can dull the finish.
• Reapply protective coatings as needed to maintain shine.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if I’m only painting? Yes, sanding ensures paint adheres properly.
• Can I use a power sander? Yes, but be careful on edges to avoid rounding them off.
• What’s the smoothest grit to use before final coating? Sanding up to 600 grit provides a professional-grade finish.

Video Guide

Transform your kitchen with confidence using eQualle Sandpaper Sheets (9 x 11 inches). Explore the full range for wood refinishing in our Wood Sanding Collection.