From Shabby to Chic – Find the Best Sander for Furniture
If you’re looking to give your furniture a new lease of life and transform it from shabby to chic, one of the most important tools in your arsenal is a sander.
Sanding away old paintwork, varnish or stains can help revive and breathe new life into wooden furniture, but you’re going to need a good sander.
But how do you know which sander is best for such delicate work? Should you be looking for palm sanders? Belt sanders? Random orbit sanders?
We’re here to help – read on for our comprehensive guide on how to choose the best sander for furniture restoration!
Do you have other sanding projects around the house?
Check out our reviews of the best sanders for deck refinishing and the best sanders for cabinets!
If you just need some general purpose tools, check out our reviews of the best palm sanders and the best belt sanders!
How We Chose the Best Sander for Furniture Renovations
When it comes to refinishing furniture, you need the best possible tools for the job.
There are a lot of different sanders on the market, and it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
We have read through thousands of reviews and considered a myriad of features to narrow the field down to these 5 best sanders for furniture restorations.
Whether you’re looking for a belt sander, orbital sander, or palm sander, we’ve got you covered.
Best 1/4 Sheet Cordless Palm Sander
DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Palm Sander
Key Features
- Variable speed control from 8,000 – 14,000 OPM
- 20V Cordless palm orbital sander
- Brushless Motor
- Included dust collection bag and hole punch
Why It’s a Great Choice
The DEWALT 20V MAX* XR Palm Sander is the perfect tool for the DIY furniture refinisher.
Its brushless motor provides greater efficiency with longer runtime to get the job done right.
That, plus its variable speed control that goes from 8,000 – 14,000 OPM will give you the perfect finish you need on any project.
The speed control means this orbital sander removes plenty of material from a wood surface with coarse sandpaper sheets, but will also excel at fine sanding with finer grit sanding paper.
On top of that, its low profile height allows you to get close to your work surface for precise sanding and a paper clamp makes sure it stays secure over even the roughest surfaces.
The dust-sealed switch protects it from tiny dust particles and keeps it usable for a long time so you can trust this sander to be an important part of your toolkit.
It also has a texturized rubber overmold grip for comfortable sanding as well as a one-handed locking dust bag so you can keep your working area clean.
This DEWALT Orbital Sander will take your next project to the finish line with ease and make sure every piece looks perfect.
Best Cordless Random Orbit Sander
Milwaukee 2648-20 M18 Random Orbit Sander
Key Features
- Variable speed control from 7,000 – 12,000 OPM
- 18V, 3.0 Ah cordless random orbit sander
- REDLITHIUM battery technology provides up to 35 minutes of run-time
Why It’s a Great Choice
When it comes to electric sanders for DIY furniture projects, Milwaukee understands the importance of the right tool for the job.
That’s why they designed this Random Orbit Sander with a powerful motor to help you remove materials faster with corded power and maximum OPM output.
With its 7,000-12,000 variable speed dial, you’ll have total control over the output and orbit speed of this tool while also being able to customize your sanding experience.
The REDLITHIUM™ battery technology provides up to 35 minutes of run-time on an M18™ 3.0 Ah battery pack, giving you ample opportunity to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Its 5″ random orbit pattern makes any sanding pad you attach ideal for wood refinishing projects, so you can be sure that you avoid gouges and swirls with this random orbit sander.
Milwaukee Electric Tools strives to provide industry-leading durability and superior performance with every tool in its lineup – no exceptions.
With that goal in mind, give yourself a distinct advantage as you tackle large and small sanding projects alike by utilizing the Milwaukee Random Orbit Sander today!
Best Corded Random Orbital Sander
BOSCH ROS20VSC Corded Variable Speed Random Orbital Sander
Key Features
- 2.5 Amp motor
- Variable no-load speed of 7,500 – 12,000 OPM
- Microfilter system to remove more fine dust particles from the air
Why It’s a Great Choice
This BOSCH Random Orbital Sander is perfect for the DIY furniture refinisher.
This top-of-the-line corded electric sander features a pad-dampening system designed to eliminate swirl marks on both flat and contoured surfaces, making it the best choice for you when you need a professional finish on your furniture projects.
The hand sander is designed with Bosch’s signature Hook and Loop sanding disc attachment system, so sanding pads easily stick to the sander like a Velcro adhesion material.
With its micro filter system, this sander traps particles as small as 1/2-micron in diameter.
You can easily see how much dust has been collected through its dust canister feature, which detaches for mess-free tasks.
More than that, the striking blue exterior is complete with a soft grip to ensure maximum comfort during use and low-vibration operation from start to finish of each project.
Get this Bosch sander today, the perfect solution for your DIY furniture sanding needs!
Best Budget Detail Sander
BLACK+DECKER MOUSE 1.2 Amp Electric Detail Sander
Key Features
- 1.2 Amp motor capable of 16,000 OPM
- Corded design for unlimited run time
- Interchangeable detail finger attachment
Why It’s a Great Choice
The BLACK+DECKER mouse sander is a go-to finishing sander for DIYers looking to sand wood furniture!
Featuring an ultra-compact design with a powerful 1.2 Amp motor, this sander delivers a whopping 16,000 orbits per minute to quickly and efficiently remove material, even from tight spaces and cramped corners.
And with its high-performance dust collection system, you’ll be able to keep your workspace tidier than ever before.
Change sandpaper pads easily with just one hand thanks to the convenient hook-and-loop sanding discs, so you can get right back to work without any hassle.
Plus, the ergonomic 3-position grip allows you to always have added control while working regardless of the job or application at hand.
Get the BLACK+DECKER mouse sander and make sure your job looks flawless!
Best Cordless Detail Sander
CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX Cordless Detail Sander
Key Features
- 20V cordless sander
- Variable speed from 9,000 – 12,000 RPM
- D-handle grip for comfort and control
Why It’s a Great Choice
Get the job done quickly and efficiently with CRAFTSMAN’s V20* Cordless Detail Sander.
This power tool provides unbeatable power and control for any detail sanding project you take on, so achieve professional-grade results every time.
This feature-rich sander is VERSATRACK compatible and allows you to precisely control dust accumulation by either removing dust through the included dust bag or by connecting a 1-1/4 in. vacuum.
The lightweight D-handle design provides maximum control and comfort when maneuvering over your project.
Make your projects shine with this CRAFTSMAN sander, providing maximum performance while reducing strain on your body so you can work smarter and faster.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Sanders for Furniture Refinishing
When it comes to choosing the best sander for furniture restoration, there are surely a lot of questions running through your head.
It can be hard to figure out what you need when shopping for a new sander.
Do you need an orbital sander? A palm sander? What about a detail sander?
We’ve put together this FAQs guide to help make your decision easier.
In it, we’ll answer the most commonly asked questions about sanders and furniture restoration so you can rest assured you’re getting the best one for your needs.
What type of sander should I use for furniture refinishing?
The type of sander you use for furniture refinishing depends on the size and shape of the furniture pieces that you are working with.
For large, flat surfaces, random orbital sanders are typically ideal.
For curved surfaces, palm sanders may be more suitable since they offer more control and flexibility.
If you are dealing with intricate details, detail sanders may be best as they can comfortably sand narrow areas and tight spots.
It is also important to consider the size of your project when choosing a sander — larger projects may require a belt sander to work efficiently, however, these can remove a large amount of material quickly so they may not be right for all furniture pieces.
Finally, don’t forget to consider ergonomics when shopping for your sander — having comfortable grips and adjustable handles will definitely make your life easier while sanding!
Should I consider the sanding speed when shopping for a sander?
Yes, sanding speed is an important factor to consider when shopping for a sander.
Sanding too fast can result in uneven surfaces, whereas going too slow may cause you to spend more time on the project than necessary.
Ideally, you want to find a sander that has a variable speed adjustment so you can easily adjust the speed depending on the type of wood and your individual needs.
Different types of sanders also offer different levels of control — some are designed with more power and control, while others provide more gentle speeds and accuracy for detailed sanding jobs.
So make sure to consider these features when selecting your sander!
Do sanders come in different sizes and weights?
Yes, sanders come in a variety of sizes and weights.
Most are designed to be lightweight, but larger models may weigh up to 10 pounds or more.
Size is an important factor as well, since different-sized pieces require different amounts of sanding power.
Additionally, some sanders feature adjustable handles that can help you find a comfortable grip while sanding.
Keep in mind also that cordless models often come in smaller sizes, which may make them easier to maneuver in tight areas.
Ultimately, choosing the right size and weight for your project will depend on the type of furniture you are refinishing and your individual preferences.
How do I know what grit type and size are best for furniture refinishing?
Choosing the right grit type and size for furniture refinishing with your orbital sander will depend on the type of wood you are working with and the desired finish.
Generally, sandpaper with a finer grit is best for delicate pieces, while coarse sandpaper can be used for tougher surfaces.
For example, when refinishing hardwood furniture, you may want to start with 40-grit sandpaper and work up to 100 or 120-grit.
When dealing with softer woods like pine or cedar, you may want to begin at 80-grit and work up to as high as 180-grit for a very smooth finish.
Keep in mind that you’ll likely need different grits for different portions of the project — such as stripping existing finishes or removing heavy dents and scratches — so it’s best to keep a variety of options on hand.
Are there any features that make one orbital sander better than another for refinishing furniture?
When it comes to refinishing wood furniture, some features can make one sander better than another.
For example, variable speeds offer greater control over how you sand, allowing you to adjust the speed according to how hard or soft the wood is.
Other features such as dust collection systems and adjustable handles can add convenience and improve comfort levels.
Additionally, cordless models may be preferable for those who need mobility, while shop vac attachments can help keep your workspace clean.
Ultimately, choosing the right sander will depend on the type of project you are undertaking and your specific needs.
Are dust collection systems important when shopping for random orbital sanders?
Dust collection systems are an important factor to consider when shopping for an orbital sander, as they can make your workspace safer and cleaner.
These systems typically come in two forms: bags or vacuums.
Bags are great for collecting large amounts of dust from high-speed applications, while a vacuum hose can be attached directly to a vacuum attachment on the sander for more detailed work.
Both options do a good job of removing harmful particles such as wood fibers, sawdust, and paint chips from the air.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of system best meets your needs.
Does the handle design on the orbital sander matter when it comes to sanding furniture?
The handle design on orbital sanders can be important when it comes to working with furniture pieces.
When dealing with larger or heavier items, having an ergonomic design that offers a comfortable grip can be beneficial.
Similarly, adjustable handles are great for getting into hard-to-reach areas and adjusting the angle of attack depending on the shape of the furniture piece you’re working on.
In any case, make sure to choose a sander with a handle that feels comfortable in your hands and allows for precise control over your work.
Is it important to have a variable speed adjustment on the sander?
Having a variable speed adjustment on a sander can be beneficial for more intricate tasks.
By controlling the speed of the sanding action, you can adjust it to the type of wood and shape of the furniture surface you’re working on.
Slow speeds are ideal for gently removing old finishes, while faster speeds are great for quickly stripping away layers of varnish or paint.
Ultimately, having this control over your tool can help you achieve better results in less time.
How often should I replace the sandpaper used with my sander?
Replacing the sandpaper used with your sander should depend on the type of project you are completing and the amount of wear and tear it is receiving.
Generally, you should be replacing your sandpaper after each project or after each layer of paint or varnish has been removed.
This will ensure that you are getting a consistent result as worn-down sandpapers can produce uneven results.
Additionally, if the paper tears or becomes clogged with dust, it should be replaced for the best performance.
What is the best power source (corded or cordless) for an electric sander dedicated to furniture refinishing?
The best power source for a sander dedicated to furniture refinishing depends on your particular needs.
A corded power sander will provide more consistent and powerful sanding with limited downtime, while cordless power sanders can be convenient, especially when working in tight corners or outdoors.
Ultimately, if you are comfortable using both types, having the option to use either can give you more freedom to choose the power source that best suits each project.
Are there any additional accessories I should buy when shopping for a new sander?
When shopping for a new sander, there are several additional accessories you should consider purchasing.
Dust collection bags are necessary to keep your workspace clean and to help prevent dust from becoming airborne.
Sandpaper of various grits is also important for obtaining a variety of finishes on the projects you complete.
Additionally, if you plan on working in tight spaces or outdoors, an extension cord or an extra cordless battery might be worthwhile investments.
What safety precautions should be taken when using my new sander?
When using any new power tool, safety should be your top priority.
First and foremost, always wear eye protection and a dust mask when sanding.
Additionally, be sure to read the owner’s manual for your sander before use, and follow all safety guidelines listed within it.
Make sure that all clamps and clasps are properly tightened and that the material being worked on is securely mounted on your workbench or surface.
Be aware of your placement in relation to the stream of dust particles.
Finally, take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue or overexertion.
The Best Sander for Your Furniture Project
After reading this post, you should have a much better idea as to what kind of sander you need for your next project.
We’ve also given you a few recommended models to get you started in your search. Be sure to do your research as well and read reviews from other customers before making your final decision.
Once you’ve found the perfect fit, click the links to Check Prices on Amazon and order yours now so you can get started on transforming that old piece of furniture as soon as possible!
