Sanding Wooden Dining Tables Before Staining: Grit Guide for Rich, Durable Finishes

Dining tables are the heart of family gatherings, but daily use leaves scratches, stains, and worn finishes. Staining restores beauty and protects the surface—but sanding is the foundation of success. This guide explains the grit sequence and process for sanding dining tables before staining.

Why Sand Dining Tables Before Staining?

Sanding removes old finishes, evens imperfections, and opens the wood grain for stain penetration. Without sanding, stain may absorb unevenly, leaving blotches and a dull finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Sandpaper sheets in multiple grits
• Orbital sander for flat surfaces
• Sanding block or sponge for edges and legs
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective gear (mask, gloves, safety glasses)

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Tables

• 100 grit: Removes old finish and heavy scratches.
• 150 grit: Smooths the surface and evens scratches.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for consistent stain absorption.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Dining Tables for Staining

1. Prep the table. Remove hardware, leaves, or glass inserts. Clean the surface thoroughly.
2. First sanding pass. Use 100 grit (50-pack) to strip finishes and smooth dents.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit (100-pack) for consistent surface texture.
4. Final sanding. Apply 220 grit (25-pack) to prepare for stain absorption.
5. Edge sanding. Use folded sheets or sponges for corners, trim, and table legs.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth.
7. Apply stain. Brush or wipe evenly, then remove excess for a uniform finish.
8. Seal the surface. Protect with polyurethane or varnish for durability.

Special Cases

For hardwood dining tables, sanding up to 320 grit may be useful before applying clear finishes. For softwoods like pine, stop at 220 grit and use wood conditioner to prevent blotchy absorption.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent visible scratches.
• Don’t oversand—stain requires open pores to absorb properly.
• Test stain on the underside or a hidden section before applying to the entire table.

Aftercare

• Allow stain and topcoat to cure fully before heavy use.
• Use coasters, placemats, or a tablecloth to protect the surface.
• Clean with mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between stain coats? No—only between protective coats like polyurethane.
• Can I skip 150 grit? Not recommended—150 grit provides a smooth transition between coarse and fine sanding.
• What if the table has deep gouges? Fill with wood filler before the final sanding pass.

Watch & Learn

Sanding dining tables before staining ensures rich color and a smooth, durable finish. Stock up on 100 to 220 grit sandpaper sheets for your next refinishing project.