Refinish Wooden Nightstand with 80, 320, and 600 Grit Sandpaper

Nightstands can suffer from water rings, scratches, and worn finishes over years of use. Using 80, 320, and 600 grit sandpaper, you can strip old coatings, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a fresh protective finish.

Why This Method Works

80 grit quickly removes old finish and levels damage. 320 grit smooths the surface for even stain or paint application. 600 grit refines the texture for a silky, professional feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 80 grit (25-pack), 320 grit (50-pack), 600 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Strip old finish and remove surface imperfections. (25-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finishing. (50-pack)
• 600 grit: Burnish for a refined touch. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Empty drawers and clean the nightstand to remove dust and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit sandpaper to strip finish and level the surface.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the texture and prep for sealing.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 600 grit sandpaper for a smooth, touch-friendly surface.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or polyurethane the nightstand, letting each coat dry before adding another.

Special Considerations

Use hand sanding on carved or decorative sections to maintain detail.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for a cleaner finish.
• Vacuum between grit changes to prevent scratches.
• Apply thin coats of finish for even coverage.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth.
• Use coasters under drinks to prevent water rings.

FAQs

• Can I start with 320 grit? Only if the surface has minimal wear.
• Will 600 grit make it glossy? Gloss comes from the topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted furniture? Yes—start with 80 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and make your nightstand look brand new.