How to Sand Kitchen Cabinets Before Painting: Smooth, Durable Results (80–320 Grit Guide)

Proper sanding before painting kitchen cabinets ensures that the paint adheres well and the finish looks flawless. Whether you’re updating old cabinets or prepping new ones, following the correct grit sequence will make all the difference.

Why Sand Cabinets Before Painting?

Cabinet surfaces collect grease, dust, and finish buildup over time. Sanding removes these contaminants and creates a textured surface for primer and paint to grip, helping to prevent peeling or chipping.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Degreaser and clean rags
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets
• Protective gear: dust mask, safety glasses, gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Removing heavy finish and leveling damaged areas.
• 150 grit: Smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 220 grit: Pre-primer preparation.
• 320 grit: Final surface refinement before painting.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Kitchen Cabinets

1. Clean thoroughly. Degrease all surfaces to remove oils and residue.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit (50-pack) to strip old finish and roughen the surface.
3. Intermediate sanding. Smooth the surface with 150 grit (25-pack) to remove heavy sanding marks.
4. Pre-primer prep. Use 220 grit (100-pack) to create a smooth, even surface.
5. Final sanding. Lightly sand with 320 grit (25-pack) for the perfect paint-ready finish.
6. Clean the surface. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust.
7. Prime & paint. Apply a quality primer followed by your chosen paint, sanding lightly between coats if needed.

Special Cases

For laminate cabinets, start with 150 grit to scuff the surface without damaging the substrate.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the wood grain to avoid scratches.
• Use sanding sponges for molding and detailed edges.
• Label your sandpaper by grit to keep organized during the process.

Aftercare

• Allow the paint to fully cure before reinstalling doors and hardware.
• Clean painted cabinets with a soft cloth and mild soap.

FAQs

• Can I skip sanding if I use a bonding primer? Light sanding is still recommended for best adhesion.
• Do I need a power sander? Not for small jobs—hand sanding is fine for detailed work.

Watch & Learn

For long-lasting painted cabinets, stock up on the right grits. Shop all wet/dry sandpaper sheets today.