7 Critical Steps for Sanding Cabinets Without Ruining Your Finish

If you’re tackling cabinet painting in Columbia, MO, understanding the steps for sanding cabinets is the first thing you need to get right. Sanding might not seem like the most exciting part of a cabinet makeover, but it’s where the magic starts. Do it wrong, and you’ll end up with streaks, rough patches, or paint that peels way too soon. But when done correctly, sanding sets the foundation for a smooth, durable, and professional-looking finish that will last for years.

The good news? It’s totally doable if you follow the right process. Whether you’re refreshing outdated cabinets or prepping for a brand-new color, these seven must-follow steps will help you avoid common mistakes and get the best results possible.

Key Takeaways

7 Critical Steps for Sanding Cabinets

Step 1: Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Before getting started, take a few extra minutes to remove cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. This step makes sanding so much easier and helps you avoid unwanted scratches on hinges and handles. If you’ve ever tried to sand around knobs, you know the struggle is real!

Label each door and drawer as you remove it so you don’t mix them up when putting everything back together. A small piece of painter’s tape with a number written on it can save a huge headache later.

Step 2: Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

Sanding over grease and dirt is a recipe for disaster. Before you even touch sandpaper, wipe down the surfaces with a degreaser or warm soapy water. Kitchens see a lot of oil buildup, especially near stovetops. Skipping this step will clog up your sandpaper fast.

A mixture of vinegar and water works well for cutting through grease, but if your cabinets have years of buildup, go for a strong degreaser. Let them dry completely before moving on.

Step 3: Pick the Right Sandpaper Grit

The grit of your sandpaper makes all the difference in cabinet painting. Use the wrong one, and you’ll either struggle to remove the finish or accidentally damage the wood underneath. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Stick with hand sanding for corners and detailed areas, but for large flat surfaces, an orbital sander can save time and effort. Just don’t press too hard—you want a smooth finish, not deep scratches.

Step 4: Follow the Right Steps for Sanding Cabinets

Now for the main event: sanding! Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches that show through the paint. Start with the coarse grit first and work your way to the finer grit for a polished finish.

If your cabinets have old, thick layers of paint, consider using a heat gun to soften the paint before sanding. Just be careful—not all cabinet materials react well to heat.

Step 5: Remove All Sanding Dust

Skipping this step will leave a rough, bumpy finish no matter how carefully you paint. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust, then follow up with a tack cloth or microfiber towel. For extra protection, a dehumidifier can help keep dust from resettling.

Even a tiny amount of dust can make the paint look uneven, so don’t rush this part!

Step 6: Apply a High-Adhesion Primer

A good primer is a game-changer for cabinet painting. It helps the paint stick better, reduces the number of coats needed, and prevents stains from bleeding through. Look for a high-adhesion primer made for glossy surfaces.

Use a sprayer or foam roller for a smoother finish with fewer brush strokes. Let it dry fully before moving to the final sanding step.

Step 7: Lightly Sand Between Coats for a Flawless Finish

For that perfect, smooth finish, lightly sand between each coat of primer and paint. Use 320-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge, then wipe away the dust before applying the next coat.

This extra step makes all the difference. It smooths out imperfections and helps each layer bond better, leading to a professional-looking finish.

Why Proper Sanding Makes a Difference

Skipping or rushing through the steps for sanding cabinets can lead to peeling paint, streaks, and an uneven surface. Taking the time to do it right means your cabinets will look smooth, polished, and professionally painted.

If you’re short on time or just want a flawless finish without the hassle, hiring a professional cabinet painter can be the way to go.

Let the Experts at Garrett Painting Handle It!

Sanding and painting cabinets might sound simple, but getting a flawless, professional finish requires the right technique and expertise. If you want smooth, durable results without the stress, the team at Garrett Painting is here to help.

With years of experience in cabinet painting in Columbia, MO, Garrett Painting delivers expert craftsmanship and lasting beauty to your home. Serving Boonville, Ashland, and Jefferson City, we make sure your cabinets look stunning and stay that way.

Call Garrett Painting today at 573-386-5890 for a FREE estimate, and let’s bring your cabinets back to life!