How to Sand Wooden Vanities Before Refinishing

Wooden vanities face constant use in bathrooms and bedrooms, often showing scratches, stains, and worn finishes. Sanding is the essential first step before refinishing to restore smoothness and prepare the surface for stain, paint, or oil. This guide explains how to sand vanities properly for a refreshed, long-lasting look.

Why Vanity Sanding Matters

Because vanities are exposed to moisture, heat, and daily wear, finishes can fail quickly without proper sanding. Correct sanding ensures new coatings bond evenly, resist peeling, and look smooth across flat tops, drawers, and trim.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander for large flat panels
• Sanding blocks and sponges for edges and drawer faces
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–220 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Stain, paint, or waterproof finish

Best Grit Sequence for Vanities

• 80 grit: Removes old coatings, scratches, and water stains.
• 150 grit: Smooths drawer faces, sides, and edges.
• 220 grit: Final prep for stain, paint, or sealer.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Vanities

1. Prep vanity. Remove drawers, doors, and hardware. Clean surfaces thoroughly.
2. Initial sanding. Start with 80 grit (25-pack) to strip away old finishes and smooth rough areas.
3. Smooth surfaces. Switch to 150 grit (50-pack) for even sanding on drawer fronts and trim.
4. Final prep. Finish with 220 grit (100-pack) to create a finish-ready surface.
5. Clean dust. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before refinishing.

Special Cases

For vanities in bathrooms, always use moisture-resistant finishes after sanding. Veneer vanities require light sanding to avoid sanding through thin layers. Painted vanities may need chemical stripping before sanding to prevent clogging paper.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid scratches showing under finish.
• Work in sections—top, drawers, and sides separately for even results.
• Seal promptly after sanding to protect against bathroom humidity.

Aftercare

• Protect finish: Wipe spills quickly to avoid water stains.
• Re-finish as needed: Light sanding with 220 grit before recoating keeps vanities fresh.
• Clean gently: Use mild cleaners instead of abrasives.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, if old finish is failing. For minor updates, scuff sanding may be enough.
• What finish is best? Waterproof sealers, polyurethanes, or bathroom-safe paints.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes—especially useful for drawer edges and detailed trim.

Watch & Learn

Sanding vanities properly ensures smooth, durable results that withstand daily use. With the right grit sequence and tools, you’ll restore beauty and extend the life of your vanity for years to come.