Refinish Wooden Dresser with 180, 320, and 800 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden dressers can become scratched, dull, and uneven over years of use. Using 180, 320, and 800 grit sandpaper, you can remove imperfections, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a new protective finish.

Why This Method Works

180 grit removes old coatings and surface flaws. 320 grit smooths the wood for even stain or paint application. 800 grit burnishes the surface for a refined, comfortable touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 180 grit (50-pack), 320 grit (100-pack), 800 grit (25-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or clear polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 180 grit: Remove old finish and imperfections. (50-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish application. (100-pack)
• 800 grit: Burnish for a smooth touch. (25-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Empty the dresser and clean the surface to remove dust and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 180 grit sandpaper to strip the old finish and level imperfections.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before the final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 800 grit sandpaper for a smooth, refined feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the dresser, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For dressers with decorative carvings, use hand sanding to maintain intricate details.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent swirl marks.
• Vacuum between grit changes for a flawless finish.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for durability.

Aftercare

• Dust regularly with a microfiber cloth.
• Use coasters and mats under decorative items to avoid scratches.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—jumping from 180 to 800 grit will leave visible scratches.
• Will 800 grit make the dresser shiny? Shine comes from the topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted furniture? Yes—start with 180 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your wooden dresser back to life.