Best Sandpaper for Removing Paint from Wood Furniture Without Damage

Stripping paint from old furniture can be a challenge, especially if you want to protect the wood underneath. The right sandpaper grit sequence and technique make it possible to remove paint efficiently while preserving the beauty of the wood grain.

Why Sand Instead of Using Chemicals?

Chemical strippers can be messy and harsh on wood, sometimes raising the grain or leaving residues that affect staining. Sanding gives you more control, avoids harmful chemicals, and creates a clean surface ready for refinishing.

Essential Tools

• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Tack cloth or microfiber rag
• Protective goggles and dust mask
• Silicon carbide sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Removing Paint from Wood

• 80 grit: Heavy paint removal and stripping multiple layers.
• 120 grit: Smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 180 grit: Refining surface for evenness.
• 220 grit: Final prep before stain or primer.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Paint Off Wood Furniture

1. Begin coarse. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to remove thick paint layers without gouging the wood.
2. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit (50-pack) to remove remaining paint traces.
3. Refine with 180 grit. Use 180 grit (25-pack) for a balanced surface.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Sand lightly with 220 grit (100-pack) to prep for staining or repainting.
5. Clean surface. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before applying finish.

Special Cases

For antiques, sand lightly to avoid removing too much material. For painted veneer, use 120 grit gently to avoid breaking through the thin top layer.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Use a detail sander or folded sheets for corners and edges.
• Replace sandpaper frequently—paint clogs grits quickly.

Aftercare

• Apply primer or stain within 24 hours of sanding.
• Seal wood to protect it from moisture absorption.
• Store sandpaper flat in a dry area to extend its life.

FAQs

• Can I skip coarse grits? No—starting with fine grits will clog quickly and won’t remove paint effectively.
• Is sanding safe for all painted furniture? Yes, but check for lead paint on older pieces and take proper safety precautions.

Watch & Learn

With the right grit sequence, you can remove paint from wood furniture efficiently and safely. Shop our furniture sanding collection to get started.