How to Sand Wooden Cabinets Before Painting

Wooden cabinets are central to kitchens and bathrooms, but old finishes, grease, and scratches make them look dated. Sanding before painting ensures smooth surfaces, proper adhesion, and long-lasting results. This guide explains how to sand cabinets efficiently for a flawless paint job.

Why Cabinet Sanding Matters

Cabinet doors and frames often have glossy finishes or buildup from years of use. Without sanding, paint won’t bond properly and may chip or peel. Correct sanding creates the ideal surface for primer and paint adhesion.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat panels
• Sanding sponges for profiles and edges
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (120–220 grit)
• Degreaser and cleaning cloths
• Primer and cabinet paint

Best Grit Sequence for Cabinets

• 120 grit: Removes old finish and grease buildup.
• 180 grit: Smooths surfaces after initial sanding.
• 220 grit: Final prep for primer and paint.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Cabinets

1. Clean first. Degrease all cabinet surfaces to remove oil and dirt.
2. Initial sanding. Use 120 grit (25-pack) to dull glossy finishes and remove residue.
3. Smooth surfaces. Switch to 180 grit (50-pack) for even smoothing.
4. Final prep. Finish with 220 grit (100-pack) to create a primer-ready surface.
5. Clean dust. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before applying primer.

Special Cases

For laminate cabinets, scuff sanding with 220 grit is enough to help paint adhere. For oak or open-grain woods, sanding filler may be applied to smooth grain before painting.

Pro Tips

• Label doors and hardware for easy reassembly after refinishing.
• Sand with the grain, especially on face frames, to avoid visible scratches.
• Always use a bonding primer after sanding for best paint adhesion.

Aftercare

• Clean gently: Avoid harsh cleaners—use mild soap to preserve painted finish.
• Touch up: Keep extra paint for quick repairs on high-use areas.
• Re-coat as needed: Light sanding with 220 grit before re-coating extends finish life.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? No—just enough to dull the old finish for primer adhesion.
• Can I skip sanding if I use bonding primer? Light sanding is still recommended for best results.
• What grit is best before primer? 220 grit gives smoothness without sealing the wood too tightly.

Watch & Learn

Sanding cabinets is the foundation of a durable paint job. With the right grit sequence and prep, your cabinets will look refreshed and stay beautiful for years.