Sanding Wooden Floors by Hand: Smooth Results Without a Machine (60–220 Grit Guide)

Not every DIYer has access to a floor sander. Luckily, you can refinish small wooden floors by hand with the right grit sequence and patience. This guide explains how to sand wood floors manually for a smooth, professional-looking finish.

Why Hand Sand Floors?

Hand sanding is ideal for small rooms, touch-ups, or areas where large sanders can’t reach. It gives you more control, especially near edges, stairs, and tight spaces.

Best Tools for Hand Sanding Floors

• 9x11 in silicon carbide sandpaper sheets
• Sanding block or hand sander
• Knee pads for comfort
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Dust mask and gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Strip old finish and level uneven areas.
• 80 grit: Remove scratches from coarse sanding.
• 120 grit: Refine surface for stain.
• 180–220 grit: Final smoothing before finish.

Step-by-Step: Hand Sanding Wood Floors

1. Prep the area. Remove furniture, cover vents, and clean the floor.
2. Start with 60 grit. Sand along the grain to remove finish. Use 60 Grit (25-pack).
3. Move to 80 grit. Eliminate scratches and smooth the wood. Try 80 Grit (50-pack).
4. Refine with 120 grit. Prep surface for staining. Stock up on 120 Grit (100-pack).
5. Finish with 180–220 grit. Lightly sand to achieve a silky texture before sealing.
6. Vacuum thoroughly. Remove dust to ensure finish adheres evenly.
7. Apply stain or sealer. Protect and beautify the wood with your chosen finish.

Special Cases

For engineered floors, avoid sanding with grits below 100—veneer layers are thin and can wear through quickly.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain for consistent results.
• Use a bright work light to catch imperfections.
• Take breaks—hand sanding floors is labor-intensive.
• Change sandpaper often to maintain cutting power.

Aftercare

• Let finish cure fully before moving furniture back.
• Use rugs in high-traffic areas to protect the surface.
• Clean with wood-safe cleaners only.

FAQs

• Can I skip coarse sanding? No—coarse grits are essential for removing old finishes.
• Is hand sanding enough for large rooms? It’s possible but very time-consuming. Machines are better for large areas.
• What grit should I stop at before applying sealer? 180–220 grit is ideal.

Watch & Learn

For durable, smooth results, shop our full range of Wood Sandpaper Sheets.