How to Sand Wooden Tabletops Before Staining (80, 120, 180, 220 Grit Guide)

Wooden tabletops are centerpieces of living and dining spaces, but scratches, dents, and uneven finishes can make them look worn. Sanding is the key step to achieving a smooth, beautiful finish that highlights the natural grain. With the right grit sequence, you can prepare your tabletop for staining or sealing like a professional. This guide explains how to sand wooden tabletops step by step using 80, 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper.

Why Sanding Tabletops Matters

Tabletops endure heavy use and show every imperfection. Sanding removes old finishes, evens out the surface, and opens wood pores for consistent stain absorption. Without sanding, stains appear blotchy and finishes won’t bond evenly.

Tools You’ll Need

• 80–220 grit sandpaper – coarse through fine for proper progression.
• Orbital sander – speeds up large flat surface sanding.
• Sanding block – for edges and corners.
• Vacuum & tack cloth – cleans dust between grits.
• Wood stain or polyurethane – for finishing after sanding.

Best Grit Sequence for Tabletops

• 80 grit: Removes old finish, paint, and deep scratches.
• 120 grit: Smooths wood after coarse sanding.
• 180 grit: Prepares wood for stain.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a silky, stain-ready surface.

Step-by-Step Tabletop Sanding

1. Start with 80 grit. Strip old finish and flatten surface using 80 grit (50-pack).
2. Smooth with 120 grit. Refine the surface using 120 grit (25-pack).
3. Refine with 180 grit. Prep for staining using 180 grit (25-pack).
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand for a smooth, paint or stain-ready finish using 220 grit (100-pack).
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe down before staining.

Special Cases

For hardwoods like oak, stopping at 180 grit helps stain penetrate evenly. For softwoods, finish with 220 grit to prevent blotching. Veneered tabletops require caution—avoid sanding below 120 grit to prevent sanding through the thin layer.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain of the wood for a natural finish.
• Use a sanding block for consistent pressure on edges.
• Replace sheets frequently—tabletops wear paper quickly.
• Always test stain on a hidden section to preview results.

Aftercare

• Protect finished surfaces with coasters and placemats.
• Recoat with polyurethane every few years for durability.
• Lightly sand with fine grit before reapplying finishes.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip old finish before sanding? Not always—80 grit removes most finishes effectively.
• What grit should I stop at before staining? 180–220 grit works best depending on wood type.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, but it’s more labor-intensive—an orbital sander saves time.

Watch & Learn

For professional tabletop refinishing, explore our wood sanding sandpaper collection.