Sanding Wooden Nightstands Before Painting: Grit Guide for Smooth Results

Nightstands are both practical and decorative, but years of use can leave them scratched, stained, or outdated. Painting is a great way to give them new life, but sanding first is the key to lasting results. This guide explains the grit sequence and process for sanding nightstands before painting.

Why Sand Nightstands Before Painting?

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and ensures paint bonds evenly. Without sanding, paint may peel, chip, or highlight scratches instead of covering them.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Detail sander or folded sheets for corners
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gear (mask, gloves, safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Nightstands

• 100 grit: Removes old paint, varnish, or rough spots.
• 150 grit: Smooths the surface and blends imperfections.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a silky, paint-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Nightstands Before Painting

1. Prep the nightstand. Remove drawers, knobs, and hardware. Clean the surface of dust and grease.
2. First sanding pass. Use 100 grit (50-pack) to strip old finishes and level rough spots.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit (100-pack) for consistent texture.
4. Final sanding. Apply 220 grit (25-pack) before primer and paint.
5. Detail sanding. Use folded sheets for edges, corners, and drawer faces.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
7. Prime & paint. Apply primer first, then paint in thin, even coats for best coverage.

Special Cases

For veneer nightstands, avoid sanding below 120 grit to prevent damage. For laminate surfaces, scuff lightly with 220 grit to help primer stick.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid scratches showing through paint.
• Don’t oversand—paint needs slight texture for adhesion.
• Sand lightly between coats of paint with 320 grit for a flawless finish.

Aftercare

• Allow paint to cure fully before reassembling drawers or placing items.
• Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap—avoid abrasives.
• Touch up chips promptly to keep the finish fresh.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if I’m using chalk paint? Yes—light sanding improves adhesion and smoothness.
• Can I skip 150 grit? Not recommended—it ensures a smoother transition between coarse and fine sanding.
• What if my nightstand has deep dents? Fill with wood filler before the final sanding pass.

Watch & Learn

Sanding nightstands before painting ensures a smooth, professional-looking finish that lasts. Stock up on 100 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets for your next refinishing project.