How do I restore my bathroom vanity?
by
Kelly Thiede
I just bought a house and the half bath vanity has been painted an awful navy blue. I may be odd but I would like to bring it back to the original builder maple finish so it matches the kitchen which is close by. What products or methods will get me to my destination causing the least harm to my cabinet?thank youkelly
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Hi Kelly - you can try sanding it down but you may need a paint stripper like citristrip - sold on amazon and most home improvement stores. Check out this post for more info : https://www.bowerpowerblog.com/refinish-bathroom-vanity/
First, remove any chipped, loose, or peeling paint.
Next, use a paint stripper. Depending on how thick the paint is and if they sanded, you may not be happy with the results and end up painting again. Citristrip is a decent stripper that doesn't have a strong smell so you could easily use indoors. If you need something stronger be careful to vent the area and wear a respirator. Make sure not to leave the stripper on too long or it will dry out and make it even more difficult to remove.
Once the paint is removed, try steel wool instead of sandpaper. It will be better for maintaining the integrity of the wood.
After you get it to the original wood, then restore with a wood preservative and then seal for bathroom use.
Yes just strip it, don't sand it off. Once clean, wash down with lacquer thinner, sand, then if you are keeping natural, apply 2 coats of polyurethane, lightly sand between coats with 220 sand paper.