Best Sanding Grit Sequence for Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets (100–320 Grit Guide)

Refinishing kitchen cabinets can completely transform your space without the cost of a full replacement. But the secret to a professional look lies in the sanding sequence you choose. Using the right grits in the correct order ensures smooth, paint-ready surfaces and a finish that lasts for years.

Why Grit Sequence Matters for Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets often have multiple layers of finish, minor dents, and everyday wear. Skipping grits or using the wrong ones can leave visible scratches, uneven surfaces, or poor paint adhesion. Following a proper grit progression removes old coatings efficiently and creates a surface that primer and paint can grip.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Shop vacuum and tack cloth
• 100 Grit (25-pack) for stripping heavy finish
• 150 Grit (50-pack) for smoothing rough surfaces
• 220 Grit (100-pack) for fine prep before primer
• 320 Grit (10-pack) for pre-finish smoothing

Best Grit Sequence for Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing

• 100 grit — Quickly removes old paint, varnish, or polyurethane.
• 150 grit — Levels scratches left by coarse sanding.
• 220 grit — Smooths the surface for primer application.
• 320 grit — Creates an ultra-smooth surface before the topcoat.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Kitchen Cabinets

1. Remove doors and hardware. Take off all cabinet doors, hinges, and knobs for easier sanding access.
2. Strip the old finish. Begin with 100 grit to remove paint or varnish, sanding with the grain to avoid deep scratches.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. This evens out the wood and eliminates coarse sanding marks.
4. Prep for primer. Sand with 220 grit to create a fine, even texture that promotes adhesion.
5. Final smoothing. Before applying the topcoat, lightly sand with 320 grit for a flawless surface.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust before priming and painting.
7. Prime and paint. Use a high-quality bonding primer, then finish with your chosen paint or stain.

Special Cases

If your cabinets are made from softwoods like pine, apply light pressure when sanding to prevent gouging. For laminate cabinets, use finer grits and avoid aggressive sanding to protect the surface.

Pro Tips

• Label each cabinet door so you can reinstall them in the correct place.
• Use a sanding sponge to get into grooves and profiles.
• Always sand between coats of paint or poly for the smoothest result.

Aftercare

• Clean cabinets with mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Touch up chips promptly to maintain finish integrity.
• Inspect annually for wear in high-use areas.

FAQs

• Can I use a chemical stripper instead of sanding? Yes, but you’ll still need to sand for proper paint adhesion.
• Do I have to remove all the old finish? Only down to a smooth, stable surface—loose or peeling finish must be removed entirely.

Watch & Learn

By following the proper grit sequence, your kitchen cabinets will look professionally refinished and stay beautiful for years. Stock up on 100 Grit (25-pack), 150 Grit (50-pack), 220 Grit (100-pack), and 320 Grit (10-pack) to tackle your next project with confidence.