Sanding Wooden Cabinets Before Painting: Grit Guide for a Smooth Finish

Painting cabinets is one of the most cost-effective ways to update a kitchen or bathroom, but sanding is the step that ensures professional results. Without sanding, paint may chip, peel, or look uneven. This guide explains the grit sequence and process for sanding cabinets before painting.

Why Sand Cabinets Before Painting?

Cabinets are exposed to grease, fingerprints, and daily wear. Sanding removes old finishes, smooths scratches, and gives paint the right surface to bond. Skipping sanding risks premature peeling and a less durable finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Vacuum or shop vac
• Painter’s tape and drop cloths

Best Grit Sequence for Cabinets

• 120 grit: Removes old finish and rough areas.
• 180 grit: Smooths surfaces and evens the texture.
• 220 grit: Final sanding before primer and paint.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Cabinets Before Painting

1. Prep the cabinets. Remove doors, drawers, and hardware for easier sanding.
2. First sanding pass. Use 120 grit (25-pack) to strip away finish and grease buildup.
3. Smooth with 180 grit. Switch to 180 grit (100-pack) for a consistent texture.
4. Final sanding. Apply 220 grit (25-pack) before primer for best adhesion.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth.
6. Apply primer. Coat evenly to seal the surface and prepare for paint.
7. Paint cabinets. Use smooth, even strokes for lasting results.

Special Cases

For laminate cabinets, sand lightly with 220 grit to scuff the surface. For heavily used cabinets, extra passes with 120 grit may be necessary to remove buildup.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Label doors and drawers before removing them to simplify reinstallation.
• Lightly sand between paint coats with 320 grit for smoother results.

Aftercare

• Let paint cure fully before reinstalling hardware.
• Clean painted cabinets with mild soap and water only.
• Touch up chips promptly to extend the life of the finish.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if using primer? Yes—primer bonds best to a sanded surface.
• Can I skip 180 grit? Not recommended—it ensures a smoother final finish.
• What if cabinets have heavy grease? Clean with a degreaser before sanding.

Watch & Learn

Sanding cabinets before painting ensures a flawless, durable finish. Stock up on 120 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets to prepare your next cabinet makeover.