Wet vs Dry Sanding Explained: When to Use Each (100–2000 Grit Guide)

Sanding is one of those tasks that looks simple but can dramatically change the outcome of your project. Whether you’re refinishing wood, prepping a car panel, or polishing resin, the choice between wet sanding and dry sanding is crucial. Both methods rely on the right sandpaper grit sequence, but each has unique advantages, disadvantages, and best-use scenarios. In this guide, we’ll break down when to use wet sanding, when to stick with dry sanding, and how to combine both for professional results.

Why Sanding Technique Matters

Using the wrong sanding method can waste time, damage materials, or leave an uneven surface. Dry sanding works fast and removes material aggressively, but it can clog quickly and create a lot of dust. Wet sanding keeps surfaces cooler and reduces clogging, but requires more setup and cleanup. Understanding the differences will save frustration and help you achieve a flawless finish.

Essential Tools

• Sandpaper sheets (100–2000 grit, wet/dry rated)
• Soft sanding block or foam pad
• Water spray bottle (for wet sanding)
• Tack cloth or microfiber towel
• Respirator mask & safety glasses

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 100 grit (25-pack) — For aggressive removal and leveling.
• 400 grit (25-pack) — For smoothing surfaces before fine finishing.
• 800 grit (25-pack) — For polishing metal, resin, or auto surfaces.
• 2000 grit (25-pack) — For ultra-fine polishing and mirror finishes.

Step-by-Step Guide: Dry Sanding

1. Prepare the workspace. Ensure good ventilation and wear a mask to protect against dust.
2. Start coarse. Use 100 grit sandpaper to remove heavy imperfections, old finishes, or surface rust.
3. Work progressively. Move to 400 grit to smooth out scratches left by coarse sanding.
4. Clean often. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth to prevent clogging and uneven sanding.
5. Stop at the right grit. For painting or staining, finishing around 220–400 grit is usually ideal.

Step-by-Step Guide: Wet Sanding

1. Soak the paper. Submerge your 800 grit or finer sheet in water for 10 minutes before use.
2. Keep surfaces wet. Mist the work area with water to reduce friction and carry away debris.
3. Sand lightly. Apply even pressure using a foam pad, keeping the paper flat against the surface.
4. Rinse frequently. Rinse both the sandpaper and surface often to prevent buildup.
5. Finish ultra-smooth. Use 2000 grit wet sanding for mirror-like clarity before buffing or polishing.

Special Cases

• Automotive paint correction: Always wet sand with 1000–2000 grit to avoid burning through clear coats.
• Wood finishing: Stick with dry sanding up to 220 grit, then switch to wet sanding if using oil finishes.
• Resin and plastics: Wet sanding with 800–2000 grit is essential for clear, glass-like finishes.

Pro Tips

• Use light pressure — let the sandpaper do the work.
• Change sheets often; clogged paper can scratch surfaces.
• For wet sanding, add a drop of dish soap to water for extra lubrication.
• Mark surfaces with a pencil before sanding — when the marks disappear evenly, you’re done.

Aftercare

• Wood: Wipe with a tack cloth before staining or sealing.
• Metal: Apply primer or rust inhibitor after sanding.
• Automotive: Buff with compound after final wet sanding for a showroom shine.
• Plastics/Resin: Finish with polishing compound to restore clarity.

FAQs

• Can I wet sand with any sandpaper? No. Only use sheets labeled wet/dry.
• Is wet sanding always better? Not always — dry sanding is faster for heavy removal, while wet sanding is best for fine finishing.
• Do I need special tools? No — just quality sandpaper sheets and water for wet sanding.

Watch & Learn

Choosing between wet and dry sanding doesn’t have to be confusing. For best results, stock up on a variety of grit levels — from 100 grit for aggressive sanding to 2000 grit for polishing perfection. Explore the full range in our sandpaper collection.