Restore Wooden Kitchen Cabinets with 150, 320, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Kitchen cabinets endure constant use, grease, and moisture, which can dull their appearance. Using a sanding sequence of 150, 320, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can strip worn finishes, smooth surfaces, and prepare them for a fresh coat of paint or varnish.

Why This Method Works

150 grit removes old finish and surface stains. 320 grit smooths wood for even finish application. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a sleek, professional feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 150 grit (100-pack), 320 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood paint, stain, or clear varnish

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 150 grit: Strip and level surfaces. (100-pack)
• 320 grit: Smooth for finish adhesion. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a polished touch. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove cabinet doors and hardware. Clean all surfaces to remove grease and dust.
2. Initial sanding. Use 150 grit sandpaper to remove old finish and smooth out minor dents or scratches.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 320 grit sandpaper to refine the wood and prepare it for painting or staining.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit sandpaper to create a silky surface that enhances the finish.
5. Apply finish. Use your choice of paint, stain, or clear coat, allowing proper drying between coats.

Special Considerations

Cabinet panels and moldings may require hand sanding with foam-backed sandpaper to maintain detail.

Pro Tips

• Label cabinet doors before removal for easy reassembly.
• Vacuum dust thoroughly before applying any finish.
• Apply a wood primer before painting for better adhesion.

Aftercare

• Clean with a mild detergent and soft cloth.
• Reapply protective finish every few years in high-use areas.

FAQs

• Can I skip 320 grit? No—skipping can lead to visible scratches under the final coat.
• Does 3000 grit make the cabinets slippery? No—it creates smoothness without excessive gloss unless paired with a high-gloss finish.
• Can this process work on MDF cabinets? Yes—just avoid excessive pressure with coarse grits to prevent damage.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and make your kitchen cabinets look brand new again.