If you’re interested in sanding furniture for staining, you’ve come to the right place. This task may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, you can achieve professional-looking results.

Why Sanding is Important
Sanding furniture for staining is essential to ensure that the stain adheres properly and looks even. Skipping this step can result in a splotchy finish that won’t last.
Sanding Furniture for Staining: Tools You Will Need
- Sandpaper in various grits (80, 120, and 220)
- A sanding block or electric sander
- Safety goggles
- Mask
- Gloves
Preparation Work
Before you begin sanding, it’s important to prepare your workspace and the furniture piece. Place the furniture on a stable surface and remove any hardware like knobs or handles.
For more articles on sanding, click here: Sanding: Your Full-Circle Guide to Smooth Mastery
Step-by-Step Sanding Instructions
- Put on your safety goggles, mask, and gloves.
- Start with the coarsest grit sandpaper (80 grit).
- Use a sanding block or electric sander to go over the entire surface in the direction of the wood grain.
- Switch to a 120-grit sandpaper and repeat the process.
- Finish by using a 220-grit sandpaper for the smoothest finish.
- Wipe down the furniture with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Final Touches
Once you’ve finished sanding, you’re ready to apply your stain. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.