How to Sand Oak Cabinets Before Staining (120, 180, 220 Grit Step-by-Step Guide)

Oak cabinets are a timeless choice in kitchens and bathrooms, but over the years their finish can become worn or outdated. Staining is an excellent way to refresh the look, but the secret to a smooth, even stain lies in the sanding process. Oak’s open grain and tough surface require the right grit sequence to achieve a professional-quality finish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to sand oak cabinets step by step using 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper.

Why Sanding Oak Cabinets Before Staining Matters

Oak is a hardwood with a prominent grain. Without proper sanding, scratches, dents, and uneven textures show through the stain, leaving a blotchy or inconsistent look. Sanding ensures the surface is level, opens the pores for stain absorption, and highlights oak’s natural beauty.

Key benefits include:

• Even stain absorption: Reduces blotches and dark spots.
• Smooth finish: Eliminates mill marks, scratches, and dings.
• Durability: Stain bonds better, making finishes last longer.
• Enhanced grain: Proper sanding highlights oak’s unique texture.

Choosing the Right Grits

• 120 grit: Removes old finish, varnish, or mill marks. Essential for leveling oak’s dense surface.
• 180 grit: Smooths scratches from 120 grit and refines the surface.
• 220 grit: Final sanding pass to prepare oak for stain absorption.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets: 120, 180, and 220 grit.
• Sanding block or sponge: For flat panels and contours.
• Orbital sander: Speeds up sanding on large cabinet doors.
• Tack cloth: Removes dust between stages.
• Drop cloth: Protects work surfaces from dust and stain drips.

Step-by-Step Sanding Guide

1. Begin with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (25-pack) to remove old finish and smooth out heavy scratches. Sand with the grain for the best results.
2. Smooth with 180 grit. Switch to 180 grit (50-pack) to refine the surface. Pay extra attention to flat cabinet panels where stain must absorb evenly.
3. Finish with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit (100-pack) for the final sanding pass. This prepares oak’s grain for uniform stain absorption.

Special Considerations for Oak

Open grain: Oak absorbs stain differently than closed-grain woods. Sanding with 220 grit helps balance absorption across the surface.

Edges and corners: Use sanding sponges or folded sheets to reach detailed trim without rounding edges.

Old finishes: Strip paint or varnish before sanding for best results.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain—cross-grain scratches will stand out once stained.
• Vacuum and wipe down with a tack cloth between grits.
• Test stain on a hidden area before applying to the full cabinet.
• Apply light, even pressure to avoid gouges in oak’s grain.
• After final sanding, apply a pre-stain conditioner for extra evenness.

Aftercare Before Staining

• Remove all dust before staining to avoid streaks.
• Apply wood conditioner to prevent blotchiness.
• Stain in thin, even coats, wiping away excess for uniform color.
• Lightly scuff sand with 220 grit between coats of finish for a flawless result.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand down to bare wood? Yes, for staining—paint or varnish must be removed.
• Is 220 grit enough for oak? Yes, 220 is ideal before staining. Higher grits can close the pores too much.
• Can I use a belt sander? Only for flat panels. For doors with curves, use orbital or hand sanding.
• How long does sanding oak cabinets take? Expect 1–3 hours depending on the number of cabinets.

Watch & Learn

Shop oak cabinet sanding sheets: Get 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper in convenient packs. Shop wood sanding sandpaper.

Closing Thoughts

Sanding oak cabinets is the foundation of a professional staining project. By following the grit sequence of 120 → 180 → 220, you’ll create a smooth, even surface that enhances oak’s natural grain and ensures your stain applies beautifully. With the right patience and technique, refinished oak cabinets can look brand new and last for years to come.