Sanding Cabinets for a Professional Paint Finish (120–400 Grit Sequence)

Painting cabinets can completely transform a kitchen or bathroom, but achieving that factory-smooth finish requires more than just a good brush or spray gun—it starts with sanding. Proper sanding ensures paint adheres evenly, prevents chipping, and creates a flawless surface. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the exact grit progression—from Grit 120 for surface prep to Grit 400 for ultra-smooth finishing—so your cabinets look professionally refinished.

Why Sanding is Crucial for Cabinet Painting

Cabinets see daily wear—grease, fingerprints, and cleaning products all break down finishes over time. Sanding removes the glossy topcoat, levels imperfections, and gives primer and paint something to grip. Skipping this step often results in peeling, uneven coverage, and visible surface flaws.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large flat panels
• Sanding sponge for edges and profiles
• Vacuum and tack cloths
• Degreaser or TSP substitute
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Primer and cabinet-grade paint
• Protective mask and eye protection

Best Grit Sequence for Cabinet Refinishing

• Grit 120 — Removing gloss and minor imperfections
• Grit 180 — Refining for primer application
• Grit 220 — Pre-paint smoothing
• Grit 320–400 — Final sanding for ultra-smooth finishes

Step-by-Step Sanding Process

1. Remove doors and hardware. Label each door and drawer to ensure they go back in the correct place. Store hinges, handles, and screws in labeled bags.
2. Clean thoroughly. Use a degreaser to remove oils, grease, and grime. Even small amounts of residue can interfere with paint adhesion.
3. Initial sanding. Use Grit 120 (100-pack) to scuff the surface and remove the glossy finish. Focus on creating an even matte look across all surfaces.
4. Refining pass. Switch to Grit 180 (10-pack) to smooth out the scratches left by 120 grit. This prepares the surface for primer, ensuring a strong bond.
5. Pre-paint smoothing. After priming, lightly sand with Grit 220 (25-pack) to knock down raised grain and imperfections. Always vacuum and tack cloth before moving to the next coat.
6. Final finish sanding. For an ultra-smooth final coat, wet sand with Grit 400 (50-pack) between paint layers. This leaves the surface silky and professional-looking.
7. Edge and detail work. Use sanding sponges or folded sheets to get into profiles and corners without rounding over edges.
8. Dust removal. After each sanding stage, vacuum thoroughly and wipe with a tack cloth to prevent dust nibs in your finish.

Special Cases

If you’re painting over factory-finished laminate cabinets, start with Grit 120 but be extra careful not to sand through the thin veneer. For solid wood, you can apply a bit more pressure, especially if removing an old finish.

Pro Tips for Success

• Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Replace sandpaper as soon as it loads up to maintain cutting efficiency.
• Always clean the surface before applying primer or paint—dust can cause adhesion failures.
• Use wet sanding for finer grits to minimize dust and achieve a smoother finish.

Aftercare

• Allow the paint to cure fully (up to 30 days) before heavy use.
• Clean with a soft, damp cloth—avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Touch up any chips promptly to prevent moisture intrusion.

FAQs

• Can I skip sanding if I use a bonding primer? Light sanding is still recommended to maximize adhesion, even with specialty primers.
• Should I sand between every coat? Yes, light sanding between coats creates a smoother, more durable finish.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit sequence—from Grit 120 (100-pack) all the way to Grit 400 (50-pack)—you’ll achieve a professional-quality cabinet finish that stands up to years of daily use.