Prepping Wooden Bed Frames for Refinish (80, 120, 180, 220 Grit Guide)

Wooden bed frames often accumulate scratches, dents, and worn finishes over years of use. Sanding is the most effective way to refresh them before staining or painting. With the right grit sequence, you can transform a tired bed frame into a centerpiece of your bedroom décor.

Why Sand Bed Frames?

Daily use causes scuffs and surface wear. Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and prepares the wood grain for stain or paint. Without sanding, new coatings won’t adhere properly and flaws remain visible.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat areas
• Sanding sponges for curved or carved details
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective mask and safety glasses
• Assorted wood sanding sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Bed Frames

• 80 grit (50-pack) — Removes old varnish or paint and deep scratches.
• 120 grit (25-pack) — Smooths coarse sanding marks.
• 180 grit (50-pack) — Refines the surface for even texture.
• 220 grit (100-pack) — Final sanding before applying stain or paint.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Bed Frames

1. Prep the frame. Disassemble if possible and clean thoroughly.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit sandpaper to remove old finishes and scratches.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit sheets for a more uniform surface.
4. Refine with 180 grit. Sand with 180 grit sandpaper for consistent texture.
5. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit sheets for a silky, paint-ready finish.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with tack cloth before finishing.

Special Cases

• Antique bed frames: Sand lightly to preserve value and detail.
• Carved wood: Use sanding sponges or detail sanders for intricate areas.
• Painted frames: If paint is intact, feather edges with 120 grit instead of full stripping.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain for best results.
• Change sheets often—bed frames have many surfaces that dull sandpaper quickly.
• Prime immediately after sanding to prevent dust from settling.

Aftercare

• Seal with durable varnish, polyurethane, or paint.
• Dust and clean regularly with mild soap.
• Reapply protective finish every few years to maintain appearance.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between coats? Yes, lightly with 220 grit for adhesion.
• Can I sand bed frames by hand? Yes, but an orbital sander saves time for larger surfaces.
• How long does sanding a bed frame take? Typically 2–4 hours depending on size and condition.

Watch & Learn

Sanding bed frames restores beauty and ensures a lasting finish. Stock up on wood sanding sheets to bring your furniture projects to life with a professional touch.