Sanding Dressers for a Smooth, Updated Look

Dressers are hardworking furniture pieces, holding clothes and accessories while doubling as a bedroom focal point. Over time, their finishes fade or chip. Sanding is the key first step to restoring or updating a dresser with stain or paint.

Why Dresser Sanding Matters

Because dressers combine large flat surfaces with detailed edges and drawer fronts, uneven sanding shows through the finish. Proper prep ensures smooth drawer operation, crisp lines, and a uniform surface for new coatings.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander for dresser tops and sides
• Sanding block for drawer fronts and rails
• Sanding sponge for curved or decorative edges
• Detail sander or folded sheets for corners
• Vacuum and tack cloth

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: For stripping old finish and leveling scratches.
• 180 grit: For refining drawer fronts and side panels.
• 220 grit: For final prep before staining, painting, or sealing.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Remove hardware. Take off knobs, pulls, and handles before sanding.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit (25-pack) on an orbital sander for tops and sides.
3. Refine drawer fronts. Switch to 180 grit (50-pack) for drawer faces and rails.
4. Final sanding. Use 220 grit (100-pack) across all surfaces for a smooth finish.
5. Detail sanding. Work corners and moldings with sanding sponges or folded sheets.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and tack cloth dust before applying new finish.
7. Apply finish. Stain and seal for a natural look, or prime and paint for bold color.

Special Cases

For veneered dressers, avoid coarse grits under 120 to prevent sanding through veneer. For antique dressers, sand lightly to preserve patina and character.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for best results.
• Number drawers before removal for easy reassembly.
• Seal end grain carefully—drawer edges absorb more stain.
• Apply extra clear coats on dresser tops to resist wear.

Aftercare

• Dust dressers regularly with microfiber cloths.
• Reapply protective finishes every 3–5 years.
• Spot sand with 220 grit before touch-up coats as needed.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip old finish first? Only for very thick coatings—otherwise sanding is sufficient.
• Can I sand painted dressers? Yes—scuff sand with 180 grit to prep for repainting.
• What’s the best finish for durability? Polyurethane or enamel paint for heavy use; oil-based finishes for natural look.

Watch & Learn

By sanding dressers carefully, you’ll create a smooth, updated surface that highlights the beauty of the piece and extends its life.