Refinish Wooden Cutting Board with 80, 320, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden cutting boards can develop knife marks, stains, and a rough texture over time. By sanding with 80, 320, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can restore a smooth, food-safe surface that looks and feels like new.

Why This Method Works

80 grit removes deep cuts and stains. 320 grit smooths the wood for even oil absorption. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a silky feel that resists moisture once oiled.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 80 grit (100-pack), 320 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Flat sanding block
• Vacuum or brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax finish

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Remove knife marks and stains. (100-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth surface for oiling. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky finish. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clean the board and allow it to dry completely.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit sandpaper to remove deep knife marks and surface stains.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface and prepare for final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or 3000 grit (50-pack) for a silky, moisture-resistant finish.
5. Oil application. Apply food-grade mineral oil or beeswax, let it soak in, then buff with a clean cloth.

Special Considerations

Always use food-safe finishes on cutting boards to ensure safety during food preparation.

Pro Tips

• Sand both sides of the board to prevent warping.
• Re-oil monthly for optimal protection.
• Wipe away excess oil to avoid sticky residue.

Aftercare

• Hand wash only—never soak or put in the dishwasher.
• Reapply oil as needed to maintain the finish.

FAQs

• Can I start with 320 grit? Only if there are no deep cuts or stains.
• Will 3000 grit make it too slippery? No—it creates a smooth feel without affecting cutting safety.
• Is beeswax better than mineral oil? Beeswax offers more water resistance, while mineral oil is easier to apply.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and keep your cutting boards looking and performing like new.