How to Sand Wooden Coffee Tables Before Refinishing

Coffee tables are focal points in living rooms, often showing scratches, stains, and dull finishes from years of use. Sanding before refinishing restores smoothness and prepares the surface for stain, oil, or paint. This guide explains how to sand coffee tables properly for a refreshed look and long-lasting protection.

Why Coffee Table Sanding Matters

Because coffee tables are high-traffic furniture, they need careful sanding to ensure finishes bond well and look even. Without sanding, new coatings may peel or highlight existing flaws. Proper sanding guarantees smooth, consistent surfaces ready for finishing.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander for tabletops
• Sanding blocks for legs and edges
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–220 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Stain, oil, or paint finish

Best Grit Sequence for Coffee Tables

• 80 grit: Removes scratches, dents, and old finishes.
• 150 grit: Smooths surfaces evenly after coarse sanding.
• 220 grit: Final prep for stain, paint, or sealer.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Coffee Tables

1. Prep table. Remove legs (if detachable), hardware, and clean thoroughly.
2. Initial sanding. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip old finishes and level surface imperfections.
3. Smooth surfaces. Switch to 150 grit (50-pack) for consistent smoothing.
4. Final prep. Finish with 220 grit (100-pack) to achieve a finish-ready surface.
5. Clean dust. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before applying finish.

Special Cases

For veneer coffee tables, sand lightly to avoid damaging thin layers. Painted tables may need chemical stripping before sanding. Antique or carved coffee tables should be sanded by hand to preserve details.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to prevent scratches showing under the finish.
• Focus extra attention on tabletops, since they receive the most wear.
• Test finishes on the underside before applying to the entire surface.

Aftercare

• Protect finish: Use coasters and mats to prevent scratches and stains.
• Re-finish as needed: Light sanding with 220 grit before recoating extends table life.
• Clean gently: Avoid abrasive cleaners that degrade finishes.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, if the old finish is failing. For minor updates, scuff sanding may suffice.
• What finish is best? Oils enhance grain, stains add depth, and paints create bold styles.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes—hand sanding is effective for edges and legs.

Watch & Learn

Sanding coffee tables properly ensures a flawless refinish. With the right grit sequence and tools, you’ll restore beauty and durability, making your table a stunning centerpiece again.