If you’re thinking about cabinet painting in Amherst, NY, knowing the steps for sanding cabinets is the first thing you should get right. It might seem like an extra chore, but skipping or rushing through sanding can lead to uneven paint, rough surfaces, or a finish that won’t last. Getting it right means smooth, flawless cabinets that look professionally done.

mistakes to avoid when painting kitchen cabinets

I’ve seen firsthand how a bad sanding job can mess up an entire cabinet makeover. A friend once called me, frustrated that her fresh coat of paint was peeling within days. The problem? She had barely sanded the surface, thinking it wasn’t necessary. Don’t make that mistake! Follow these seven steps to do it right and get cabinets that look fresh and polished.

Key Takeaways

  • Proper sanding is the foundation of a smooth and long-lasting cabinet painting finish.
  • Choosing the right sandpaper grit prevents damage and improves paint adhesion.
  • Removing dust after sanding helps avoid a rough or bumpy surface.
  • A high-adhesion primer ensures a more durable and even paint job.
  • Hiring a professional house painter saves time and guarantees a flawless finish.

7 Essential Steps for Sanding Cabinets

Step 1: Remove Cabinet Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

If you’ve ever tried painting cabinets while they’re still attached, you know how frustrating it can be. Removing doors, drawers, and hardware makes sanding easier and gives you a cleaner result. Trying to work around hinges and handles can leave rough edges or visible brush marks.

One trick I always recommend: label each door and drawer before removing them. A small piece of painter’s tape with a number written on it will save you from the puzzle of figuring out which piece goes where later.

Step 2: Clean Cabinets Before Sanding

Sanding over grease and grime is a recipe for disaster. Kitchen cabinets, in particular, collect a lot of oil, dirt, and dust over time, especially near stoves and sinks. Before sanding, wipe everything down with a strong degreaser or a mix of dish soap and warm water.

For stubborn buildup, vinegar and baking soda work wonders. If you skip this step, grease will clog your sandpaper and prevent a smooth sanding

Step 3: Pick the Right Sandpaper Grit

One of the most common mistakes in cabinet painting is using the wrong sandpaper. The right grit depends on the condition of your cabinets:

A luxury kitchen with black cabinets, granite counter top, tiled backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and chrome faucets.
Grit Purpose

120-grit

 Removes old finishes and roughens up glossy surfaces.

150-180 grit

Smooths out imperfections and preps for priming.

220-grit

Creates a fine, polished surface before painting.

For detailed areas, a sanding sponge works better than regular sandpaper. And if you have a large flat surface, an orbital sander can speed things up without leaving deep scratches.

Step 4: Sand Cabinets the Right Way

Sanding might sound simple, but technique matters. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid visible scratches.

If your cabinets have old layers of paint or varnish, you might need a heat gun to soften the finish before sanding. Just be careful—too much heat can warp the wood. For the best results, start with coarser sandpaper and gradually switch to finer grit.

Step 5: Get Rid of Sanding Dust

Skipping this step can leave you with a rough and uneven surface. After sanding, remove dust using:

  • A vacuum with a brush attachment
  • A microfiber cloth or tack cloth
  • A dehumidifier to keep dust from settling back

Even the tiniest dust particles can ruin your final finish, so take your time cleaning before moving on to the next step.

Step 6: Apply a Quality Primer

A good primer is the secret weapon of professional cabinet painters. It helps paint stick better and prevents stains from bleeding through. Choose a high-adhesion primer designed for cabinets.

mistakes to avoid when painting kitchen cabinets

For the smoothest result, use a foam roller or sprayer instead of a brush. Let the primer dry completely before sanding it lightly with 320-grit sandpaper to create an ultra-smooth base.

Step 7: Lightly Sand Between Coats

This is the step that separates a professional-looking finish from a DIY disaster. Lightly sanding between coats of primer and paint smooths out imperfections and helps each layer bond better.

Use fine 320-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge, then wipe away dust before applying the next coat. This extra step is what gives cabinets that flawless, factory-finish look.

Why Sanding Properly Makes a Difference

Skipping or rushing through the steps for sanding cabinets can lead to peeling paint, streaks, and uneven surfaces. Taking the time to prep your cabinets correctly ensures a professional-quality finish that lasts.

If you’re short on time or just want flawless results without the hassle, hiring an expert cabinet painter is a great way to go.

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Let Advantage Paint Services Handle Your Cabinet Painting!

Sanding and painting cabinets takes patience and skill, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you want a smooth, professional finish without the mess, the experts at Advantage Paint Services are ready to help.

We specialize in cabinet painting in Amherst, NY, bringing precision and care to every project. Whether you’re in Williamsville, Tonawanda, or Clarence, we’ll make sure your cabinets look stunning and last for years to come.

Call Advantage Paint Services today at 716-477-3966 for a FREE estimate, and let’s give your cabinets the perfect finish!