How to Prep and Refinish Wooden Cabinet Doors for a Smooth, Modern Look (80–320 Grit Guide)

Kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors can show years of wear from grease, moisture, and daily use. Refinishing them is a cost-effective way to update your space without replacing the cabinets entirely. With the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack), you get all five essential grits—80, 120, 180, 220, and 320—for a perfect prep and finish process.

Why Sanding Matters for Cabinet Doors

Sanding removes old coatings, smooths out imperfections, and ensures your new paint or stain adheres properly. Without proper grit progression, you risk visible scratches or peeling finish within months.

Tools & Materials

• Assorted Grit Sanding Discs (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 grit)
• Random orbital sander
• Vacuum with dust extraction
• Tack cloths
• Primer and paint or wood stain
• Painter’s tape and drop cloths

Step-by-Step Sanding Process

1. Remove Hardware: Take off all handles, knobs, and hinges. Label each door for easy reinstallation.
2. Initial Sanding – 80 Grit: Remove thick paint or varnish, and level out dents or rough patches.
3. Secondary Pass – 120 Grit: Smooth the aggressive scratches left by 80 grit, refining the surface.
4. Refining Pass – 180 Grit: Prepare the surface for finish by creating a consistent texture.
5. Fine Sanding – 220 Grit: Smooth the surface for optimal adhesion of primer or stain.
6. Final Pass – 320 Grit: Achieve a silky-smooth feel before applying your finish coat.
7. Dust Removal: Vacuum thoroughly and wipe with a tack cloth.
8. Apply Finish: Prime, paint, or stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing full drying between coats.

Pro Tips for Refinishing Cabinets

• Sand with the grain for best results and minimal visible scratches.
• Work on a flat surface by laying the doors on sawhorses or a padded table.
• For grooves or panel details, hand-sand to preserve the shape.
• Seal with a durable topcoat, especially for kitchen cabinets.

Aftercare

• Clean surfaces with mild soap and a soft cloth—avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Address chips or scratches promptly to prevent water damage.
• Recoat as needed for high-traffic kitchen or bathroom areas.

FAQs

• Do I have to sand to bare wood? Only if the old finish is damaged or you’re changing from a dark to light color.
• Can I skip grits? Skipping can leave sanding marks that show through paint or stain.
• Will these discs fit my sander? They fit most 5-inch hook & loop sanders with an 8-hole dust pattern.

Watch the Process

By using the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack) and following the right grit progression, you can give your cabinet doors a professional-quality finish that lasts for years.