Sanding Wood Cabinets for Repainting: Achieving a Factory-Smooth Finish

Repainting old cabinets can instantly transform a kitchen or bathroom—but the secret to that professional, factory-smooth finish lies in sanding. Whether your cabinets are oak, maple, or MDF, proper surface prep ensures the paint adheres evenly, hides grain, and stays flawless for years.

Why Sanding Cabinets Before Painting Is Essential

Cabinets collect grease, moisture, and fingerprints that interfere with paint adhesion. Sanding removes contaminants, dulls glossy finishes, and smooths imperfections. Skipping this step can lead to uneven paint, poor bonding, and visible texture under the topcoat.

Recommended Tools

• 9×11-inch silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets.
• Orbital sander for flat panels and drawer faces.
• Soft sanding block for edges and profiles.
• Vacuum and tack cloth for dust removal.
• Primer and enamel cabinet paint.

Grit Sequence

• 150 grit: Removing old finish and dulling gloss.
• 220 grit: Refining and smoothing the primer coat.
• 320 grit: Final sanding before applying paint for a flawless feel.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wood Cabinets for Repainting

1. Remove hardware and clean. Take off all doors, knobs, and hinges. Wipe with a degreaser or TSP substitute to remove oils and residue.
2. Initial sanding. Start with 150 Grit (25-pack) to remove old finish and dull the surface. Focus on high-contact areas like handles and corners where buildup occurs.
3. Prime and level. After priming, lightly sand with 220 Grit (50-pack) to smooth raised grain and minor brush marks. This step helps the topcoat lay flat and adhere uniformly.
4. Final smoothing. Before the last coat, finish with 320 Grit (100-pack). Sand gently in the direction of the wood grain to achieve a silky, paint-ready texture.
5. Clean and paint. Vacuum all surfaces, wipe with a tack cloth, and apply thin, even paint coats using a high-quality brush or sprayer.

Special Cases

For laminate or MDF cabinets, avoid coarse grits below 150—they can scratch or expose the substrate. Instead, scuff-sand lightly with 220 grit and use a bonding primer to ensure paint adhesion.

Pro Tips

• Always sand between coats—smooth surfaces create a premium look.
• Use silicon carbide paper—it stays sharp even on sealed finishes.
• Wipe surfaces frequently to avoid sanding dust embedding in paint layers.
• Apply paint in a clean, dust-free environment to prevent specks and drips.

Aftercare

• Allow paint to cure for 7 days before reinstalling doors and hardware.
• Clean cabinets with a soft cloth and mild cleaner; avoid abrasive pads.
• Touch up minor scuffs with a fine brush and leftover paint for a seamless finish.

FAQs

• Can I paint cabinets without sanding? Not recommended—light sanding is vital for long-term adhesion, even with bonding primers.
• Should I sand after priming? Yes, always. Primer raises wood grain slightly; sanding ensures a smooth topcoat.
• What type of paint works best? Enamel or acrylic-latex paints provide durable, washable finishes ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

Watch & Learn

For professional refinishing projects, use eQualle’s fine sanding collection. Silicon carbide sheets in 150–320 grits deliver smooth, even results on wood, MDF, and laminate cabinet surfaces.

Conclusion: Sanding cabinets before repainting transforms dull, outdated finishes into showroom-quality surfaces. The 150–220–320 grit sequence ensures perfect adhesion, smooth coverage, and long-lasting beauty—making your next kitchen makeover a true success.