Best Sandpaper for Refinishing Wooden Dining Tables Before Staining

A dining table is the centerpiece of many homes, but scratches, water rings, and dull finishes can make it look worn out. Refinishing starts with sanding, and choosing the right sandpaper grits is the key to achieving a smooth, beautiful surface ready for stain or finish.

Why Sand Dining Tables?

Old finishes, dents, and uneven surfaces prevent new stain from penetrating evenly. Sanding removes the damaged layer, levels imperfections, and opens wood pores for consistent absorption. Without sanding, the refinished surface may look blotchy or uneven.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat surfaces
• Sanding sponges for edges and curves
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Silicon carbide sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Dining Tables

• 80 grit: Removing old finish and stains.
• 120 grit: General smoothing after stripping.
• 180 grit: Refining wood surface for evenness.
• 220 grit: Final sanding before staining.

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Wooden Dining Table

1. Start coarse. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip away the old finish and stains.
2. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (50-pack) to refine the surface after coarse sanding.
3. Refine with 180 grit. Sand using 180 grit (25-pack) for consistent preparation before stain.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand with 220 grit (100-pack) to create the perfect stain-ready surface.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust before staining.

Special Cases

For antique dining tables, avoid over-sanding to preserve details. For veneer tables, use caution—veneers are thin and can sand through easily.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent scratches.
• Work in stages—don’t skip grits for the best results.
• Replace sandpaper when clogged to maintain cutting efficiency.

Aftercare

• Apply stain within 24 hours of sanding for best penetration.
• Seal with polyurethane or varnish to protect the table surface.
• Store unused sandpaper in a dry place for longevity.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between stain coats? Not always—only between polyurethane coats with 320 grit.
• Can I use a belt sander on a dining table? No, it’s too aggressive and may leave gouges—use an orbital sander instead.

Watch & Learn

Sanding is the foundation of a successful refinishing project. Stock up on our wood sanding collection to restore your dining table to its original beauty.