How To Sand Kitchen Cabinets: Save Money with DIY Refinishing

Do you want to save money by refinishing your kitchen cabinets yourself? Yes, you can! This guide will show you how to sand kitchen cabinets the right way, saving you money and giving your kitchen a fresh new look. We’ll cover everything from preparation to finishing touches, so you can achieve professional-looking results without breaking the bank.

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Why Sand Your Kitchen Cabinets?

Sanding kitchen cabinets is a crucial step in refinishing them. Here’s why:

• Better Adhesion: Sanding creates a slightly rough surface, which helps primer and paint stick better. If you skip sanding, the new finish might chip or peel.
• Smooth Finish: Sanding removes imperfections like scratches, dents, and old paint drips. This creates a smooth surface for a flawless finish.
• Removes Gloss: Glossy surfaces are hard for new paint to grip. Sanding removes the shine, creating a better surface for paint.
• Prepares for Stain: If you plan to stain your cabinets, sanding is essential. It opens the wood pores, allowing the stain to penetrate evenly.

Sanding Kitchen Cabinets Preparation: Getting Ready

Proper preparation is key to a successful cabinet refinishing project. Let’s break down the steps for sanding kitchen cabinets preparation:

1. Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need these items before you start:

• Screwdriver or Drill: For removing cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware.
• Cleaning Supplies: Degreaser, TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner, cloths, and sponges to clean the cabinets.
• Drop Cloths or Plastic Sheeting: To protect your floors and countertops.
• Painter’s Tape: To mask off areas you don’t want to sand or paint, like the inside of cabinets.
• Sandpaper: Various grits (more on this later).
• Sanding Block or Orbital Sander: For sanding the surfaces.
• Dust Mask or Respirator: To protect your lungs from dust.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Vacuum Cleaner with Brush Attachment: To clean up dust.
• Tack Cloth: To remove any remaining dust before painting.
• Wood Filler (optional): For filling any dents or imperfections.

2. Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

• Carefully remove all cabinet doors and drawers.
• Label each door and drawer with its location. This will save you time when reassembling. A simple numbering system with painter’s tape works well.
• Remove all hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls. Store them in a safe place.

3. Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

• Kitchen cabinets get greasy and dirty over time. Use a degreaser or TSP cleaner to remove all grease, grime, and food splatters.
• Follow the product instructions carefully. Rinse the cabinets with clean water and let them dry completely.
• This step is vital because paint won’t stick well to a dirty surface.

4. Protect Your Workspace

• Cover your floors and countertops with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
• Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to sand or paint, such as the inside of the cabinets or the walls.

Best Sandpaper for Kitchen Cabinets: Choosing the Right Grit

Selecting the correct sandpaper is essential for achieving a smooth, paint-ready surface. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best sandpaper for kitchen cabinets:

Grit Range	Use	Purpose
80-100	Removing old paint or varnish, rough surfaces	Aggressive sanding to remove heavy coatings or imperfections.
120-180	Smoothing surfaces after using coarser grits, initial sanding	General sanding to smooth the surface and prepare it for finer grits.
220-320	Final sanding before painting, between coats of paint	Fine sanding to create a smooth surface for paint adhesion.
400+	Wet sanding between coats of paint for an ultra-smooth finish (optional)	Very fine sanding for an exceptionally smooth finish, usually between coats of paint.

For most kitchen cabinet projects, you’ll need at least 120, 180, and 220 grit sandpaper.

How to Prep Kitchen Cabinets for Painting: Step-by-Step Sanding Guide

Now that you have your supplies and the cabinets are clean and dry, it’s time to start sanding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Start with the Right Grit

• If your cabinets have a thick coating of old paint or varnish, start with 80-100 grit sandpaper to remove the bulk of the finish.
• If your cabinets are in good condition, you can start with 120-180 grit sandpaper.

2. Sand with the Grain

• When sanding wood cabinets, always sand in the direction of the wood grain. This will prevent scratches.
• Apply even pressure and avoid pressing too hard. Let the sandpaper do the work.

3. Sand All Surfaces

• Sand all surfaces of the cabinets, including the doors, drawers, and frames.
• Pay attention to edges and corners, as these areas are often overlooked.

4. Use an Orbital Sander (Optional)

• An orbital sander can speed up the sanding process and create a more even finish.
• If using an orbital sander, start with a lower speed and gradually increase it as needed.
• Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the wood.

5. Switch to Finer Grits

• After sanding with the initial grit, switch to a finer grit sandpaper (180-220 grit).
• Sand all surfaces again, using the same technique as before.
• This will smooth out any scratches left by the coarser grit sandpaper.

6. Final Sanding

• For the final sanding, use 220-320 grit sandpaper.
• This will create a very smooth surface that is ready for primer and paint.

7. Sanding Cabinets Before Painting Guide

• Once sanding is complete, thoroughly vacuum all surfaces to remove any dust.
• Use a tack cloth to wipe down the cabinets and remove any remaining dust particles.
• This step is crucial for ensuring a smooth, professional-looking finish.

DIY Cabinet Sanding Tips: Expert Advice

Here are some extra tips to help you get the best results:

• Don’t skip grits: It’s tempting to jump straight to a fine grit sandpaper, but this won’t remove the old finish effectively. Start with a coarser grit and gradually work your way up to a finer grit.
• Replace sandpaper frequently: Dull sandpaper won’t sand effectively. Replace the sandpaper as soon as it starts to lose its grit.
• Use a sanding block: A sanding block will help you apply even pressure and create a more consistent finish.
• Work in a well-ventilated area: Sanding creates a lot of dust, so it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area. Open windows and doors, or use a fan to circulate the air.
• Take breaks: Sanding can be tiring, so take breaks as needed. This will help you stay focused and avoid making mistakes.

Cabinet Refinishing Sanding Techniques: Advanced Methods

For more advanced cabinet refinishing projects, consider these techniques:

• Wet Sanding: Wet sanding involves using wet sandpaper to create an ultra-smooth finish. This technique is often used between coats of paint.
• Sanding with Mineral Spirits: Sanding with mineral spirits can help to remove stubborn paint or varnish. Apply mineral spirits to the sandpaper before sanding.
• Using a Detail Sander: A detail sander is a small, handheld sander that is perfect for sanding tight corners and intricate details.

Orbital Sander for Kitchen Cabinets: A Helpful Tool

An orbital sander can be a great time-saver when sanding kitchen cabinets. Here are some tips for using an orbital sander:

• Choose the Right Sander: Look for an orbital sander with variable speed settings. This will allow you to adjust the speed to match the grit of the sandpaper.
• Use a Light Touch: Let the sander do the work. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the wood.
• Move the Sander in a Circular Motion: This will create a more even finish.
• Keep the Sander Moving: Don’t hold the sander in one place for too long, as this can create dips in the surface.

Remove Old Paint from Cabinets Sanding: Tackling Tough Finishes

Removing old paint can be challenging, but here’s how to do it effectively with sanding:

• Start with a Coarse Grit: Begin with 80-100 grit sandpaper to remove the bulk of the old paint.
• Use a Paint Scraper: A paint scraper can help to remove thick layers of old paint before sanding.
• Consider a Chemical Stripper: For very thick or stubborn paint, you may need to use a chemical stripper before sanding. Follow the product instructions carefully.
• Sand in Multiple Stages: After removing the bulk of the paint, switch to finer grits of sandpaper to smooth the surface.

Sanding Sealer for Kitchen Cabinets: A Protective Layer

After sanding and before painting, consider using a sanding sealer. Here’s what it does:

• Seals the Wood: Sanding sealer fills the wood pores, creating a smooth surface for paint.
• Prevents Grain Raise: It prevents the wood grain from raising when you apply paint.
• Improves Paint Adhesion: Sanding sealer provides a better surface for paint to adhere to.

Apply sanding sealer according to the product instructions. Lightly sand the sealer with 220-grit sandpaper before painting.

Cabinet Sanding Dust Control: Keeping it Clean

Sanding creates a lot of dust, which can be harmful to your health. Here’s how to control dust during cabinet sanding:

• Wear a Dust Mask or Respirator: This will protect your lungs from dust particles.
• Use a Vacuum Cleaner: Vacuum up dust frequently. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean the cabinets and the surrounding area.
• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Open windows and doors to circulate the air.
• Use a Sanding Screen: A sanding screen can be attached to your sander to collect dust.

Painting After Sanding

Once the cabinets are sanded, cleaned, and dust-free, they are ready for primer and paint. Choose a high-quality primer and paint designed for cabinets. Apply thin, even coats and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to sand kitchen cabinets? The best way involves starting with a coarser grit sandpaper to remove old finishes or imperfections, then gradually moving to finer grits for a smooth surface. Clean thoroughly between each grit.

Can I sand kitchen cabinets without removing them? Yes, you can sand cabinets without removing them. However, removing them makes the job easier and allows for more thorough sanding and painting.

Who should I hire to sand my kitchen cabinets? If you’re not comfortable sanding your cabinets yourself, you can hire a professional painter or cabinet refinisher.

How long does it take to sand kitchen cabinets? The time it takes depends on the size of your kitchen and the condition of the cabinets. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

What kind of sander is best for kitchen cabinets? An orbital sander is generally best for sanding cabinets, as it creates a smooth, even finish. A detail sander can be helpful for tight corners and intricate details.

Do I need to prime after sanding? Yes, priming is essential after sanding. Primer helps the paint adhere better and provides a more uniform finish.

By following these tips and techniques, you can sand your kitchen cabinets like a pro and save money with DIY refinishing. A little effort can transform your kitchen into a space you love!