How to Sand Wooden Dressers with Mirrors Before Refinishing

Dressers with mirrors are elegant and functional, but scratches, stains, and dull finishes can diminish their beauty. Sanding before refinishing restores smoothness and prepares the wood for stain, oil, or paint. This guide explains how to sand dressers with mirrors properly for long-lasting, refreshed results.

Why Dresser with Mirror Sanding Matters

These pieces combine flat drawer fronts, decorative edges, and a mirror frame. Without sanding, new finishes won’t adhere evenly, leading to blotches or peeling. Careful sanding ensures consistent absorption and a professional-quality finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander for flat tops and sides
• Sanding blocks and sponges for edges and mirror frame
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–220 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Stain, oil, or paint finish

Best Grit Sequence for Dressers with Mirrors

• 80 grit: Removes old finish, scratches, and dents.
• 150 grit: Smooths drawer fronts, sides, and frames.
• 220 grit: Final prep before applying new finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Dressers with Mirrors

1. Prep dresser. Remove drawers, hardware, and if possible, detach the mirror for easier sanding.
2. Initial sanding. Begin with 80 grit (25-pack) to strip old coatings and smooth damage.
3. Smooth surfaces. Switch to 150 grit (50-pack) for refined sanding on drawers and frame.
4. Final prep. Finish with 220 grit (100-pack) to achieve a finish-ready surface.
5. Clean dust. Vacuum all surfaces and wipe with tack cloth before refinishing.

Special Cases

For veneer dressers, sand lightly to avoid sanding through thin layers. Antique dressers with mirrors should be sanded carefully—hand sanding is safer for delicate trim. Painted pieces may need stripping before sanding.

Pro Tips

• Cover the mirror with cardboard or painter’s tape to prevent scratches.
• Sand with the grain for consistent, professional results.
• Test finishes on the back or underside before applying across the dresser.

Aftercare

• Protect finish: Use mats or liners inside drawers to reduce wear.
• Re-finish as needed: Light sanding with 220 grit before recoating extends dresser life.
• Clean gently: Avoid harsh chemicals that damage finishes.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, if the old finish is failing. For minor updates, scuff sanding may suffice.
• What finish works best? Oils highlight natural grain, stains add depth, and paints create bold styles.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes—especially useful for mirror frames and detailed edges.

Watch & Learn

Sanding dressers with mirrors is the foundation of flawless refinishing. With the right grit sequence and tools, you’ll restore beauty and durability, making your furniture look stunning again.