Sanding Wooden Cabinets Doors with 9x11 Sandpaper Sheets (100, 150, 220, 320 Grit Guide)

Cabinet doors take the brunt of daily use, often showing scratches, grease stains, and chipped finishes. Refinishing them starts with proper sanding, and using 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets makes the job easier and more effective. With the right grit sequence, you’ll achieve a professional, long-lasting result.

Why Sand Cabinet Doors?

Sanding removes grease buildup, smooths out surface imperfections, and prepares the wood for primer, paint, or stain. Without sanding, new finishes may peel or look uneven, especially in high-use kitchens and bathrooms.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat door panels
• Sanding block for edges and grooves
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective goggles and dust mask
• Assorted 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Cabinet Doors

• 100 grit (100-pack, 9x11 in) — Removes old paint or finish and levels imperfections.
• 150 grit (25-pack, 9x11 in) — Smooths marks from coarse sanding.
• 220 grit (100-pack, 9x11 in) — Refines the surface for primer or stain.
• 320 grit (25-pack, 9x11 in) — Final sanding for a silky, paint-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Cabinet Doors

1. Prep the doors. Remove hinges, handles, and clean surfaces thoroughly.
2. Start with 100 grit. Use 100 grit 9x11 inch sheets to strip old finishes and smooth rough spots.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit sheets for even texture.
4. Refine with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit sheets to prepare for finishing.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Use 320 grit 9x11 inch sheets for a flawless, finish-ready surface.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe down before applying stain, primer, or paint.

Special Cases

• Grease-stained doors: Clean with degreaser before sanding to avoid clogging paper.
• Laminate cabinet doors: Lightly scuff with 220 grit only—avoid aggressive sanding.
• Decorative trim: Use sanding sponges to reach grooves and carvings.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the wood grain for the smoothest results.
• Replace 9x11 sheets frequently—cabinet doors have multiple surfaces that dull quickly.
• Prime or seal immediately after sanding to protect the surface.

Aftercare

• Apply a durable sealer or topcoat for kitchen use.
• Wipe down doors regularly with mild soap.
• Touch up scratches quickly to extend the finish’s life.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between paint coats? Yes, lightly with 320 grit for adhesion.
• Can I sand cabinet doors by hand? Yes, 9x11 inch sheets wrapped around a block work well.
• How long does sanding cabinet doors take? Typically 1–2 hours per set, depending on size and condition.

Watch & Learn

Sanding cabinet doors with 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets ensures lasting results. Stock up on wood sanding sheets and give your cabinets a fresh, professional finish.