How to Refinish Wood Vanities

Wood vanities add warmth and charm to any bathroom, but over time, humidity, age, and normal wear can take their toll. Instead of replacing your old wood vanity, consider restaining it to give it a fresh, new look. This simple DIY project can transform your bathroom, extend the life of your vanity, and save you money. Follow this guide to learn how to restain a bathroom vanity effectively.

Preparation for Refinishing Your Wood Vanity

Before you begin, gather all the necessary items for refinishing the bathroom vanity. Most of these tools are commonly found in a household tool shed or can be purchased or rented from a local home improvement store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cleaning product
• Sponge/soft cloths
• Screwdriver
• Painter’s tape
• Sandpaper
• Hand sander
• Shop vacuum
• Stain or primer and paint
• Paintbrush
• Polyurethane finish

Start by cleaning the vanity thoroughly with a cleaning product to remove any residue from hairspray, makeup, soap scum, and deodorant. Remove the drawers, handles, and knobs, and place them in a plastic bag to keep them organized.

Stripping the Paint from Your Vanity

Place the doors and drawers on drop cloths in a well-ventilated area. Apply a chemical stripper to the surfaces with a paintbrush. Allow the stripper to sit for the recommended time, then scrape away the old finish. Clean the wood with a cloth, and use a hand sander with 180-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining finish. Always sand with the grain of the wood, applying gentle pressure.

Before sanding the rest of the vanity, use painter’s tape to protect the surrounding walls from paint.

Priming, Painting, and Staining Your Vanity

After stripping the paint, it’s time to prime, paint, or stain the wood. Use a shop vacuum to remove any dust from the vanity. If your paint doesn’t include primer, apply a separate primer to help the top coat adhere and last longer. Let the primer dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions for drying times.

Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen stain or paint. After the paint has dried, finish with a polyurethane coat designed for bathroom use. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely before reattaching the drawers, doors, and hardware.

Understanding Bathroom Vanity Widths and Types

Refinishing a wood vanity can save you the cost of a new one, but sometimes replacement is necessary. Modern Bathroom offers a wide selection of vanities, including single, double, wall-mounted, and free-standing options.

Vanities vary in size, from compact designs ideal for small bathrooms to larger ones with dual sinks and ample storage. Choose a vanity that suits the size of your space, storage needs, and design preferences. CCSUPPLY offers bathroom vanities in sizes ranging from 24” to 72”.

Shop for Your Dream Vanity

Explore our full selection of vanity designs and sizes to upgrade your bathroom. Whether you’re refinishing an existing vanity or purchasing a new one, we have the perfect option to meet your needs.

By following these steps, you can give your wood vanity a new lease on life, enhancing both its appearance and functionality. Happy refinishing!