Do you have to sand between coats of paint on cabinets?

Author: Derick Kautzer  |  Last update: Sunday, January 25, 2026

Even if you use liquid sandpaper before repainting, it's still important to sand in between each coat of primer and paint. Whether you want modern cabinets, rustic ones, or a more traditional vibe, this will help to achieve the most resilient results.

Should you sand cabinets between paint coats?

Yes, sanding between coats of interior paint helps achieve a smooth finish by removing any bumps or imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper lightly after each coat dries, then clean off dust before applying the next coat. This step enhances the paint's adhesion and results in a more polished look.

Is it OK to paint cabinets without sanding?

You can paint cabinets without sanding and even use discount paint, as long as it is gloss or semigloss. You can paint cabinets without sanding and even use discount paint, as long as it is gloss or semigloss.

What happens if you don't sand between paint coats?

However, generally speaking, if the first coat you apply is about perfect and there are no visible defects anywhere, then sanding may not be necessary if a second coat is applied right after the first one has dried. But once the first coat has fully cured, a second coat may not adhere as well as one would like.

Can you paint over already painted cabinets?

To paint already painted kitchen cabinets, start by cleaning the surfaces thoroughly. Sand the cabinets lightly to ensure good adhesion, then apply a primer suitable for previously painted surfaces. Once the primer is dry, use high-quality acrylic or latex paint to achieve a smooth, durable finish.

Sanding Between Coats - kitchen cabinet painting

Do you have to sand off old paint before repainting cabinets?

Painters should sand the cabinets down to remove any glossiness from the previous finish. This process creates tiny abrasions on the surface, which help the primer and paint adhere better. It also smooths out any imperfections and removes any loose or flaking paint.

Do I need to put a clear coat over painted cabinets?

Yes, it is recommended to apply a clear coat over painted cabinets.

Do professional painters sand between coats?

Conclusion. Sanding between coats of paint is a valuable step in the painting process that can greatly enhance the quality and longevity of your paint job. It helps to create a smoother and more professional-looking finish by eliminating imperfections and ensuring better paint adhesion.

Is it OK to paint without sanding?

The good news is that you can paint old furniture, without sanding, and it comes out beautifully. I've painted about 8 or 9 pieces of furniture, and I've gotten better results with each one. Here is my simple step-by-step guide to painting furniture without sanding.

What grit sandpaper do you use between coats of paint?

180 to 220 Grit Sandpaper: Finer grit sandpaper is great for removing the scratches left by coarser grits on unfinished wood and for lightly sanding between coats of paint. 320 to 400 Grit Sandpaper: Very fine grit sandpaper is used for light sanding between coats of finish and to sand metal and other hard surfaces.

What is the best paint finish for kitchen cabinets?

Semi-gloss or satin: Semi-gloss is the best finish for painting kitchen cabinets. It has some sheen to help reflect light. It's durable, washable, and more resilient when scrubbed clean.

Do kitchen cabinets need to be sanded?

How much do I need to sand when prepping cabinets for painting? You do not need to sand down to bare wood as long as you scuff the previous finish well and remove all glossiness.

Can you paint kitchen cabinets without sanding reddit?

You don't really have to sand off the stain per se but you do need to rough it up so that the paint will stick. The other option would be to apply a stripper to dissolve the finish.

Should you paint cabinets 2 or 3 coats?

For the best results, you should apply two coats of stain-blocking primer and two coats of cabinet-grade paint. Use a fine-finish roller for panels and fixed pieces and an airless sprayer for cabinet doors to achieve a smooth, professional finish.

What grit should I use to sand painted cabinets?

Carefully sand your surface with fine, 220-grit sandpaper or a sanding block.

Does Benjamin Moore Advance need to be sanded between coats?

Cabinetry-All surfaces to be roughened by sanding (220 grit or coarser) before priming; light sanding between coats allows for a smoother finish; all dust must be cleaned.

What happens if you don't sand before repainting?

Poor paint adhesion is one of the most common consequences of skipping the sanding step. Without sanding, the cabinet surface remains smooth and may have a glossy finish or residual substances that hinder the paint from properly adhering.

What is an alternative to sanding?

Instead of sanding, use a liquid deglosser to dull the existing finish. This product helps you prepare the surface for new stain or paint without the need to strip or sand.

Is liquid deglosser as good as sanding?

Liquid sandpaper is also referred to as deglosser and wet sanding. The advantage of using liquid sandpaper instead of regular sandpaper is that it's easier to apply and safer to use. You just rub liquid sandpaper over the object you wish to paint, wait a set amount of time and wipe off.

Should you always sand between coats?

Pro tip: Sanding between coats of paint isn't always necessary, but is highly recommended when applying polyurethane over stain or raw wood.

What happens if you apply a second coat of paint too soon?

Applying the second coat too early will result in lost time, money, and effort. Not only that but it'll also create additional stress that's not necessary. Applying the second coat too early will result in streaks, peeling paint, and uneven color.

Can you put too many coats of paint on cabinets?

You certainly don't want to skimp on the number of coatings you apply to your cabinets, but you also don't want to go overboard. Slapping on too many coats of primer or paint during cabinet refinishing can hinder adherence, interfere with proper drying, and result in strange lines and patterns on the finished surface.

What is the best finish for painted kitchen cabinets?

High-gloss: This type of paint finish has the highest shine, making it the most reflective. High-gloss can make the cabinets look larger and brighter, but it can also highlight imperfections in the surface. High-gloss paint is also simple to clean, making it a good choice for kitchens prone to accidents or spills.

What is the best paint for Sherwin Williams kitchen cabinets?

Tip: Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Gloss, Semi-Gloss or Satin sheen is among the best paint for kitchen cabinets because it has excellent flow and leveling characteristics, resulting in a smooth and durable finish.

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