Furniture stripping, which involves removing old paint off a piece of wooden furniture, is the first and most difficult step in furniture refinishing. And in fact, it’s the most important step because the beauty of your finished work hinges largely on the perfectness of your stripping. These explain why you need to invest in the right tools for stripping.
While there many other options, the best tool for achieving perfect furniture stripping is a wood sander. Wood sanders are power tools that run on electricity or built-in rechargeable batteries and are available in different forms.
Best Sanders for Wood Stripping: Our Top 10 Picks
The market abounds with wood sanders by several different brands. And making the right choice can be a huge challenge if you don’t know what to look out for — especially if you’re looking for a model that’s particularly suitable for furniture stripping.
Thankfully, however, we’ve made your shopping easier, as we have put together this comparative review of some of the best sanders for wood stripping – carefully selected based on power and performance, durability, handling, dust collection, brand reputation, buyer reviews, and price.
Read on to learn more.
1. WORX Random Orbit Sander : Multi Sander for Furniture Stripping
WORX WX820L 20V Multi-Sander is a multi-purpose polishing device for all your ideal DIY sanding. This handheld sander comes with several accessories all necessary for high-quality finishing. Rather than having different sanders to handle different tasks, you get one with different attachments for easy furniture stripping.
Also, you won’t have to spend hours trying to change and fix new pads/attachments. The WORX WX820L 20V Multi-Sander comes with a hyperlock clamping system that makes it very easy to switch modes and change bases while working.
Performance
The WORX WX820L 20V Multi-Sander is powered by 20-volt max lithium batteries. These batteries would deliver a lot of power for every use, however, the ideal runtime would depend on the type of work you use the machine for.
- [5-SANDERS-IN-1] Random orbit, finishing, detail,...
- [HYPERLOCK KEEPS IT TIGHT] Toolless pad change...
- [DO IT ALL WITH THE SAME BATTERY] Worx Power Share...
This sander features an innovative Mode Max Technology. This is a great feature asit ensures that the machine would only deliver the right amount of power for the job at hand. This improves the efficiency and overall performance of the machine. You can also set the needed speed yourself from one of its 5 variable speed settings.
There are 5 accessories included that allow you to do a lot more than just sanding. You can usethe machine for a random orbit, detailing, finishing, counter, and finger using any of the accessories.
Handling
For easy handling, there is a rubberized grip with an ergonomic design. This feature comes in handy if you’re a DIYselfer or you want a sander for professional use. The rubberized handle allows for a more comfortable grip which makes it easier for you to work for longer periods without getting fatigued.
Dust Collection
Using a sander usually leaves a huge mess that you would have to clean up later. Well, not with this sander. The WORX WX820L 20V Multi-Sander comes with a micro-filter dust bag that catches tiny particles and small debris. This reduces airborne dust allowing you to breathe easily while getting work done. Using the large orbital radius of the system, you can also dismiss dust you ease.
Pros
- 5 in 1 application
- Durable batteries deliver impressive power
- Variable speed control
- Dust filter and collection system
Cons
- Battery life may fail after some time
- Performance could decline after several years
Best Alternative of WORX WX820L Sander for Furniture Stripping
2. DEWALT Palm Sander : Sheet Sanders for Woodworking
DEWALT is known to produce some of the most efficient and most affordable products and the DEWALT Palm Sander falls into that category. This sander comes with very impressive features and a great price tag to go with.
Performance
The DEWALT Palm Sander is a corded device which means you should expect the best power delivery and efficiency. It comes with a 2.3 Amp motor that can deliver up to 14,000 orbits per minute. This high sanding power means you can get work done faster and easier.
- 2.3 AMP motor sands at 14,000 OPM
- Locking dust-port system that allows the user to...
- Reduced overall height of the sander to get the...
DEWALT also included an improved paper clamp feature in this device which ensures better paper retention. This is one of the reasons why the device is able to deliver perfect finishes.
Handling
For easy handling and the neatest work, the DEWALT Palm Sander comes with a comfortable and sturdy grip. The grip features a rubber overmold texture that allows for smooth control while sanding.
The entire design of the device aims to make sanding easier and faster. It features a reduced overall height that allows you to get closer and monitor your work. In addition to that, there is a foam pad that allows for a flatter sanding plane.
To reduce vibration and noise, DEWALT includes a separate counterweight feature. This makes the sander vibration-free and noise-free.
Dust Collection
Dust collection is done very well with this sander. It comes with a rubber dust boot just over the switch that will protect from dust ingestion and also boost the life of the sander. You can easily attach the dust port to any compatible dust collector for easy dust collection and disposal.
Pros
- Sands at 14,000 OPM
- Rubber overmold texture for smooth control
- Features a dust collection box
- Affordable
Cons
- Design could be improved
- Dust collection box is prone to malfunction
3. BLACK DECKER MAX Sheet Sander : Random Orbit Sander Cordless
The BLACK DECKER BDCMS20C 20V MAX Sheet Sander comes with an insanely affordable price tag that could scare any buyer. But before you write off products that cost way less than other competing models, you should know that BLACK DECKER produces one of the best quality tools on the market. Its BDCMS20C 20V MAX Sheet Sander is just as efficient even though it costs twice as less.
Performance
This machine entirely cordless and it runs on a strong battery that delivers enough power for even the most difficult applications. While battery-powered devices are considered as the less efficient options, the BLACK DECKER BDCMS20C 20V MAX Sheet Sander doesn’t fall into that category.
- The 20V max* Mouse sander brings cordless...
- Compact and ergonomic design helps with...
- The 2-position grip allows for control and ease of...
Running on 20V batteries, it can deliver speeds of up to 12,0000 for fast material removal. Thanks to its 2-position grip, you should have enough control and use it without hassle.
Handling
To make handling easier, the sander comes with a uniquely shaped grip. This allows for comfortable operation when using the sander in any position. For those with small furniture or accessories with tight corners and spaces, you should be able to strip those hard to reach areas with ease.
To enable the smoothest operation, this machine comes with a detailed finger attachment. These accessories can be interchanged to help you reach those spaces that might be impossible to strip.
Dust Collection
Using this sander would create a lot of dust that could mess up your workspace and worse, it could lead to health complications if you breathe in the fine dust particles. However, you won’t have to worry about dust as it comes with a dust compartment for easy dust collection. This dust bag will capture all the tiny particles and it also allows for easy disposal.
Pros
- Compact and ergonomic design
- 2-position grip allows for easy handling
- Detail finger attachment
- Delivers 20V of power
Cons
- Design could make handling tedious
- A little pricey
4. TACKLIFE Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander
Small but powerful, the TACKLIFE PRS01A is the ideal sander for the DIYselfers, however, it also offers great quality finishing that would amaze any professional.
Performance
The TACKLIFE PRS01A comes with an amazing spec sheet with its powerful motor being the most outstanding feature. It comes with a 3.0 Amp 350W motor that can deliver up to 130000 RPM. This isn’t surprising since the TACKLIFE PRS01A comes with a cord that has to be connected to a power source.
- Strong Applicability: 6 Adjustable speed dial...
- 12Pcs Sandpapers: Supplied Sanding Discs 5-inch...
- High Performance Dust Collection: It provides a...
Corded sanders have always been known to pack a lot of power but you’ve got to stay close to a power source everytime you want to use them. If the restriction of movement doesn’t worry you, then you will be blown away by this sander.
You can control the speed settings and set the desired power for any task using the speed dial. There are 6-speed settings for you to choose from.
The TACKLIFE PRS01A packs some important accessories including 12 pieces of sandpapers to meet all your needs and applications. There are 6pcs x 80 grit and 6pcs x 180 grit for multiple applications. With them, you can remove paint from different surfaces including wood, plastic, and metal.
Handling
The TACKLIFE PRS01A features an amazing design for easy handling and comfortable use. Just above the base is a rubberized palm grip for easy control. The grip might be a little bit wide for some hand sizes but overall, it does allow you to work without stressing your hands or feeling hand fatigue.
The entire system is built to work stably without producing disturbing noise and vibration. This makes it an impressive tool for indoor work. It is compact with a 5-inch base which makes it great for reaching those tight corners. Right at the top of the sander is a paddle switch for easy on/off during use. Overall, the design is very impressive allowing for user-friendly operation.
Dust Collection
You also won’t have to worry about messing up your room or workplace. The TACKLIFE PRS01A comes with a micro-filter system that collects small particles and sends them into a dust collection box.
Pros
- 6 Adjustable speed dial
- High-performance dust collection
- Comfortable design allows for easy handling
- Works well with indoor sanding
Cons
- Dust box is prone to malfunction
- Better with more accessories
5. SKIL Orbital Sander for Furniture Stripping
This SKIL Random Orbital Sander SR211601 is an amazing tool that will deliver high performance and fine finishing for many applications.
Performance
This tool comes with apowerful 2.8 Amp motor that can deliver up to 13,000 orbits per minute. This is enough power to level even the roughest surfaces. When using sander on a surface, you’d want to be sure you’re using the right amount of speed.
- Powerful With a 2.8 amp motor and 13, 000 orbits...
- Easy to clean dust container The x-flow dust...
- Speed controlVariable speed control provides the...
Too much speed on a wooden surface would cause more harm than good while too little speed on a metal surface won’t get you the finishing you want. On the SKIL Random Orbital Sander SR211601 are variable speed controls to allow you to select the right amount of power you need for any task.
Handling
You will love the compact design of this sander. It comes with a rubberized head that acts as the handle. Right at the end of the head is the cord outlet. That’s right the SKIL Random Orbital Sander SR211601 is a corded sander which is not surprising since it delivers so much power. With corded sanders, you won’t have to worry about dwindling performance and efficiency when the battery runs too low. However, you’ve got to stay really close to a power source to run this sander.
Moving on, the rubberized head actually makes the sander easier to handle, It allows you to press down on the sander so that you get a clean finish every time you use it. Its soft rubber grip and ergonomic design prevents any excess vibration and allows your hand to stay comfortable while the tool is in use.
Dust Collection
As with all high-end sanders, the SKIL Random Orbital Sander SR211601 comes with an X-Flow Dust Collection compartment that will help to keep your working area neat and leave less for you to clean up.
Pros
- Variable speed control
- Low Vibration
- Fits into tight corners
- Powerful 2.8 Amp motor
Cons
- Could put out a lot of dust
- Comes with few accessories
6. TACKLIFE Sander Machine with Dust Collector
From TACKLIFE comes this random orbit sander with impressive specs for DIY sanding and polishing.
Performance
Maybe the most impressive feature of this machine is its motor. The TACKLIFE PRS02A 5-Inch Sander Machine comes witha powerful motorthat delivers 6000 – 13000 RPM. It can actually reach up to 13000 revolutions per minute which allows for faster and more efficient operation. There are 6 adjustable speed dials that will deliver varying amounts of power and control on different materials.
- Low Vibration and Noise: Ergonomically designed...
- Intelligent Design: The dust-proof switch keeps...
- What You Get 1 x TACKLIFE PRS02A Random Orbit...
There is some impressive innovative tech in this machine known as the hook and loop pad design. This makes changing sanding discs easier and faster.
Handling
Using a sander would lead to hand fatigue especially if you have a lot of work to do. To ensure that this doesn’t happen, the TACKLIFE PRS02A 5-Inch Sander Machine comes with a rubberized palm grip designed to make operation smoother, easier, and to allow for better control. In addition, you won’t have to worry about noisy vibration with this tool. Thanks to its ergonomic design, soft rubber grip, and counterweight balance, you won’t be disturbed by the vibration of the machine when it’s in use. This allows you to work longer periods without hand fatigue.
The TACKLIFE PRS02A 5-Inch Sander Machine is great for multiple applications. It works well with wood, rough edges, floors, old windows, and internal stairs. Aside from the machine, you will get 10 pieces of sandpapers and 3 polishing kits (wood pad, sponge pad, and polish cloth pad). You can use these extra accessories for car surface polishing and removing paint on wood.
Dust Collection
This sander features a special dust-proof switch design for safer operation. This not only helps to keep all dust and debris out but it also ensures a longer service life. You won’t really have to worry about dust and other tiny particles with this machine.
It is equipped with a micro-filter system that traps small particles. These particles are sent to the dust bag allowing for a safer working space. This feature is great if you plan to use this machine on old furniture as they tend to make a huge mess with dust.
Pros
- 6 adjustable speed
- Micro-filter system for dust collection
- User-friendly design
- Low vibration
Cons
- Not compatible with demanding tasks
- Dust port doesn’t work with vacuum
7. GALAX PRO Electric Cordless Detail Sander for Furniture Stripping
The GALAX PRO Electric Orbital Sander features an impressive spec sheet that includes an outstanding motor and an ergonomic design for easy handling. However, one feature that does justice to all it has to offer is its rotating base.
Performance
When using sanders on furniture or other wooden equipment, you would come across those tight corners that might be difficult to reach. Most sanders for DIYselferusually feature a design that allows you to reach these areas, however, theydon’t always give the best results since they come with a circular base. Well, the GALAX PRO Electric Orbital Sander comes with a triangular base that looks more like a clothes iron. This base can rotate up to 360 degrees. The triangular base allows you to reach those tiny corners using its edges which would make for a better finish.
- Design of 360 rotatable plate:allows you to turn...
- Powerful motor:Mouse detail sander features a 1.6...
- Detachable dust box:The dust container adopts a...
Power is important when it comes to a sander and the GALAX PRO Electric Orbital Sander gives all the power you will need. This tool is a corded sander so you won’t have to worry about charging the battery or changing the batteries after years of use. It comes with a powerful 1.6A motor that delivers up to 12,000 OPM for efficient work.
Handling
To allow for easy handling, the GALAX PRO Electric Orbital Sander features a handle covered by soft rubber. The rubberized handle allows for a firm and comfortable grip making it easy for you to work with only one hand while using the sander. There are also 10 pieces of sander paper included in the box.
Dust Collection
A dust bag attached to the basecollects tiny particles and debris as you use the sander. This ensures a dust-free work area and less clean-up for you to do after work. Thanks to the anti-falling buckle design, the dust box will remain firmly attached to the sander. It can also be easily detached and cleaned.
Pros
- 360° rotatable plate:
- Detachable dust box
- Rubberized handle for easy control
- 10 pieces of mouse sandpapers included
Cons
- Not suitable for very demanding tasks
- A little pricey
