Restoring Wooden Kitchen Countertops for a Hygienic and Attractive Finish (120–400 Grit Sequence)

Wooden kitchen countertops can be a beautiful and practical feature, but they take a lot of abuse from daily food prep, spills, and heat. Over time, the surface can become dull, stained, or scratched. With proper sanding and refinishing, you can bring your countertop back to a clean, attractive, and food-safe condition. This guide walks you through a complete process using a Grit 120 to Grit 400 sequence.

Why Sanding is Important for Kitchen Countertop Restoration

Because kitchen counters are in constant use, sanding removes stains, cuts, and roughness, creating a smooth surface that’s easier to clean and safer for food contact. It also ensures that any protective oil, wax, or sealant bonds effectively to the wood.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander for large flat surfaces
• Sanding block for corners and edges
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Food-safe oil, wax, or sealant
• Clean lint-free rags
• Protective gear: mask, goggles, gloves

Best Grit Sequence for Wooden Countertops

• Grit 120 — Removing surface damage and stains
• Grit 180 — Refining surface after coarse sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-finish smoothing
• Grit 400 — Final pass for a smooth, sealed-ready surface

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the countertop completely and clean it to remove crumbs, grease, and debris.
2. Initial sanding. Start with Grit 120 (100-pack) to remove scratches, stains, and old finish. Always sand with the grain to avoid visible marks.
3. Surface refinement. Switch to Grit 180 (10-pack) to smooth the surface further and eliminate coarse sanding lines.
4. Pre-finish sanding. Move to Grit 220 (25-pack) to create an ideal surface for oil, wax, or sealant absorption.
5. Final sanding. Use Grit 400 (50-pack) to achieve a silky-smooth feel and ensure a perfectly prepared surface.
6. Dust removal. Vacuum the surface and wipe it thoroughly with a tack cloth to remove all fine particles.
7. Apply finish. Use a clean lint-free rag to apply your chosen food-safe oil, wax, or sealant. Work in thin coats, following the grain.
8. Buffing and curing. After drying, buff lightly with Grit 400 for a flawless finish. Allow the countertop to cure before heavy use.

Special Cases

If the countertop has deep gouges or burns, you may need to fill these with a food-safe wood filler before sanding. Ensure filler is fully cured before proceeding to finer grits.

Pro Tips for Success

• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid breathing dust.
• Replace sandpaper as soon as it becomes clogged.
• Reapply protective finish regularly to maintain appearance and safety.

Aftercare

• Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Use cutting boards to avoid scratches.
• Re-oil or re-wax the surface every few months for best results.

FAQs

• Can I use polyurethane on a kitchen countertop? Yes, but choose a food-safe product if the surface will contact food directly.
• How often should I reapply oil? Every 3–6 months, depending on usage.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit progression—from Grit 120 (100-pack) to Grit 400 (50-pack)—you’ll achieve a smooth, durable, and hygienic countertop that’s ready for daily use.