Sanding Kitchen Tables Before Staining with 180 Grit Sandpaper Sheets

A freshly sanded kitchen table provides the perfect surface for stain, ensuring even absorption and a beautiful finish. eQualle 180 grit sandpaper sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry) are an excellent choice for preparing wood tables before staining, striking the balance between smoothing and keeping pores open for rich color penetration.

Why 180 Grit for Kitchen Tables?

180 grit is classified as a medium-fine abrasive. It removes imperfections and levels the wood surface without closing off pores, which helps stain soak in evenly. Using coarser grits may leave scratches, while finer grits may cause blotchy stain absorption.

Tools You’ll Need

• eQualle 180 Grit Sandpaper sheets (9x11 in, Wet or Dry)
• Sanding block or orbital sander
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Safety glasses and dust mask

Step-by-Step: Sanding Kitchen Tables

1. Clean the surface. Wipe the table with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grease.
2. First pass sanding. If the table has old finish, start with 120 grit, then move to 180 grit (100-pack) for smoothness.
3. Sand evenly. Work in the direction of the grain with consistent strokes to avoid cross-scratches.
4. Check smoothness. Run your hand across the surface—it should feel silky without rough patches.
5. Final cleanup. Vacuum thoroughly and wipe with a tack cloth before applying stain.

Special Cases

For hardwood tables like oak or maple, 180 grit ensures even stain penetration. For softer woods like pine, avoid oversanding as it can create blotchy absorption. Always test stain on a hidden spot first.

Pro Tips

• Sand table edges and corners by hand to avoid rounding them off excessively.
• Use light, even pressure—let the grit do the work.
• After staining, lightly sand between clear finish coats with 220 grit for smoothness.
• Replace sheets often for consistent sanding quality.

Aftercare

• Store sandpaper flat and dry for long-term use.
• Reapply stain or protective finish as needed to maintain durability.
• For dining tables, use a clear polyurethane coat for added protection against spills.

FAQs

• Can I use 220 grit instead of 180? Yes, but stain may not penetrate as deeply on some woods.
• Do I need to strip old finish first? For heavily finished tables, yes—use 80–120 grit before moving to 180.
• Is hand sanding enough? For small tables, yes. For larger tables, an orbital sander saves time.

Watch & Learn

Prepare your table for a flawless stain finish with eQualle 180 grit sandpaper sheets. Durable and reliable, they’re perfect for refinishing kitchen furniture. Shop 180 grit sandpaper sheets today.