How to Sand Wooden Cabinets Before Painting or Refinishing (120–400 Grit)

Kitchen and bathroom cabinets take daily abuse—grease, moisture, and constant handling. Before painting or refinishing, proper sanding is essential to ensure finishes last and look professional. This guide covers grit progression, tools, and pro techniques for prepping cabinets the right way.

Why Sand Cabinets?

Sanding removes old finishes, dulls glossy coatings, and smooths scratches so that primer, paint, or stain bonds evenly. Skipping sanding often leads to peeling paint or uneven finishes that won’t hold up in high-use areas.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat cabinet doors
• Sanding sponge for profiles and edges
• Tack cloth and vacuum
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (120–400 grit)
• Respirator mask and safety goggles

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Initial sanding to remove glossy coatings or light finishes.
• 180 grit: Smoothing wood grain after stripping.
• 220 grit: Prepping bare wood before primer or stain.
• 320–400 grit: Final sanding for ultra-smooth finish coats.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Remove doors and hardware. Label and set aside hinges and handles for easy reassembly.
2. Start with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (25-pack) sheets to dull glossy finishes.
3. Refine with 180 grit. Smooth surfaces using 180 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets.
4. Prep with 220 grit. Sand evenly with 220 grit (100-pack) for proper paint adhesion.
5. Finish with 320–400 grit. For a flawless surface, lightly sand with 400 grit (10-pack) before applying topcoats.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with tack cloths.
7. Prime and paint. Use cabinet-specific primers and paints for durability.

Special Cases

For laminate cabinets, scuff-sanding with 180–220 grit is enough—avoid coarse grits that may damage the surface. For oak cabinets, sanding to 400 grit ensures even stain penetration without blotching.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain of the wood.
• Use sanding sponges for grooves, profiles, and moldings.
• Don’t oversand veneer cabinets—thin layers can sand through quickly.
• Check surfaces under angled lighting for hidden gloss spots.

Aftercare

• Clean cabinets with mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Touch up paint as needed in high-traffic areas.
• Reapply protective coatings every few years for longevity.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if using a bonding primer? Yes—light sanding improves adhesion and prevents peeling.
• Can I sand cabinets by hand? Yes—hand sanding with sponges is effective for edges and details.
• What grit is best before painting cabinets? 220 grit provides the ideal balance of smoothness and adhesion.

Watch & Learn

Sanding cabinets is the key to a lasting, professional-quality refinish. Stock up on medium grits, fine sheets, and super fine sandpapers to prep your cabinets for their best finish yet.