Polishing Acrylic and Plastic Surfaces: Scratch-Free Clarity (800–3000 Grit Guide)

Acrylic and plastic surfaces—like aquariums, motorcycle windshields, or display cases—scratch easily. Fortunately, the right sanding and polishing sequence can restore optical clarity without costly replacements. This guide explains how to use sandpaper correctly for crystal-clear results.

Why Sand Acrylic and Plastic?

Scratches scatter light, making plastic surfaces hazy or dull. Sanding gradually levels out scratches, while finer grits prepare the surface for polishing compounds that restore transparency.

Best Tools for Plastic Polishing

• 9x11 in silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets
• Soft foam sanding pad
• Spray bottle with water
• Microfiber cloths
• Plastic polishing compound

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 800 grit: Remove deeper scratches and surface damage.
• 1200 grit: Smooth sanding marks from coarse grit.
• 2000 grit: Pre-polish refinement.
• 3000 grit: Ultra-fine finish before buffing.

Step-by-Step: Restoring Acrylic & Plastic

1. Clean the surface. Wash with mild soap and water, then dry.
2. Begin with 800 grit. Wet sand scratches with even strokes. Use 800 Grit (25-pack).
3. Smooth with 1200 grit. Remove haze left by coarse sanding. Stock up on 1200 Grit (50-pack).
4. Refine with 2000 grit. Achieve a clear pre-polish surface. Try 2000 Grit (100-pack).
5. Finish with 3000 grit. Light sanding prepares for final polishing.
6. Polish. Apply a plastic-safe polishing compound with a microfiber cloth until the surface is crystal clear.
7. Seal. For outdoor plastics, apply a UV protectant to prevent yellowing.

Special Cases

For deep gouges, start at 400–600 grit before moving into the finer range. For delicate items like eyeglasses, begin no coarser than 1200 grit.

Pro Tips

• Keep surfaces wet at all times to avoid heat buildup and melting.
• Sand in alternating directions with each grit for uniform results.
• Work slowly—rushing can cause uneven sanding.
• Always finish with a polish for maximum clarity.

Aftercare

• Clean with microfiber cloths only—avoid paper towels that scratch.
• Use mild soap instead of harsh cleaners.
• Reapply UV protectant periodically to maintain clarity.

FAQs

• Can I use a power buffer? Yes, but use low speed to avoid melting plastic.
• Will sanding make scratches worse? Not if you follow the grit sequence carefully and finish with polishing.
• Can I use metal polish on plastic? No, always use compounds formulated for plastics.

Watch & Learn

Get scratch-free clarity with our full range of ultra-fine wet/dry sheets in the Super Fine Sandpaper Collection.