Best Sandpaper for Refinishing Wooden Bed Frames and Headboards

Wooden bed frames and headboards add warmth and character to a bedroom, but daily use and age can leave them scratched, faded, or worn. Refinishing begins with sanding, which removes old finishes and prepares the wood for stain or paint, giving your furniture a fresh new look.

Why Sand Bed Frames?

Bed frames and headboards are high-contact pieces that often collect scuffs, chips, and discoloration. Sanding smooths these imperfections, removes old coatings, and ensures finishes adhere evenly for a long-lasting result.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat areas
• Sanding sponges for curves and details
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Silicon carbide sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Bed Frames

• 80 grit: Removing heavy finish or thick paint layers.
• 120 grit: General smoothing and leveling.
• 180 grit: Refining curves, legs, and decorative edges.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for stain or paint adhesion.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Bed Frames

1. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip old finishes and handle major scratches.
2. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (50-pack) for consistent smoothing.
3. Refine with 180 grit. Sand with 180 grit (25-pack) to prepare curves and detailed areas.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for a silky surface ready for stain or paint.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all sanding dust.

Special Cases

For antique bed frames, sand lightly to preserve details and craftsmanship. For veneered headboards, avoid coarse grits—start at 120 grit to prevent sanding through the veneer.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain of the wood.
• Remove slats and rails before sanding for easier access.
• Replace sandpaper often—clogged sheets leave uneven results.

Aftercare

• Apply stain or paint within 24 hours of sanding for best adhesion.
• Seal with polyurethane or varnish for durability.
• Maintain finishes by dusting and cleaning with non-abrasive products.

FAQs

• Can I use a belt sander? No—too aggressive for furniture, it may gouge wood.
• Do I need to sand between coats of finish? Yes—lightly with 320 grit for ultra-smooth results.

Watch & Learn

Sanding properly transforms old bed frames into stunning bedroom furniture. Explore our wood sanding collection to get the right grits for your project.