Refinishing Wooden Cribs with 9x11 Sandpaper Sheets (100, 150, 220, 320 Grit Guide)

Wooden cribs hold sentimental and practical value, but over time, finishes can fade and scratches appear. Sanding with 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets is the best way to prepare a crib for safe refinishing. Using the correct grit sequence ensures a smooth, baby-safe finish that looks beautiful and lasts.

Why Sand Cribs?

Cribs face daily wear from little hands and toys, leading to scuffs, dents, and worn coatings. Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and preps the wood grain for safe paint or non-toxic sealers. Without sanding, coatings may chip or peel, exposing rough surfaces.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sanding block for slats and rails
• Orbital sander for larger flat panels
• Sanding sponge for curved edges
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective goggles and dust mask
• Assorted 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Cribs

• 100 grit (100-pack, 9x11 in) — Removes old coatings and smooths scratches.
• 150 grit (25-pack, 9x11 in) — Smooths coarse sanding marks and evens texture.
• 220 grit (100-pack, 9x11 in) — Refines surfaces before finishing.
• 320 grit (25-pack, 9x11 in) — Final pass for a silky, baby-safe finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Cribs

1. Prep the crib. Disassemble if possible and clean thoroughly.
2. Start with 100 grit. Use 100 grit 9x11 inch sheets to remove old finishes and smooth scratches.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit sheets for consistent texture.
4. Refine with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit sheets to prep for safe coatings.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Use 320 grit 9x11 inch sheets for a flawless, silky smooth surface.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before applying non-toxic finishes.

Special Cases

• Antique cribs: Sand lightly to preserve wood integrity while smoothing surfaces.
• Painted cribs: Feather with 150 grit instead of stripping if paint is intact.
• Curved spindles: Use sanding sponges for precision on rounded edges.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the wood grain for safer, smoother results.
• Replace 9x11 sheets frequently—cribs have many small surfaces that dull paper quickly.
• Only use baby-safe, non-toxic finishes after sanding.

Aftercare

• Clean cribs regularly with mild, non-toxic cleaners.
• Inspect for scratches and re-sand lightly if needed.
• Reapply non-toxic sealers every few years to maintain safety and durability.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between coats? Yes, lightly with 320 grit for adhesion and smoothness.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, 9x11 inch sheets wrapped around a block work perfectly for slats.
• How long does sanding a crib take? Typically 3–4 hours depending on size and condition.

Watch & Learn

Sanding cribs with 9 x 11 inch sandpaper sheets ensures safe, smooth, and professional results. Stock up on wood sanding sheets and restore your crib with a baby-safe finish.