10 Surprising Uses for Sandpaper You Probably Didn’t Know

Sandpaper being used to sharpen scissors

Sandpaper is a staple in any workshop, essential for smoothing wood and metal. But its uses extend far beyond basic sanding. Discover ten surprising ways to utilize sandpaper around your home.

Sharpening Tools and More

Sharpening Scissors

Dull scissors can be frustrating. Revive them by cutting through a sheet of fine-grit sandpaper several times. This hones the blades, restoring their sharpness for clean cuts.

Sandpaper sharpening a sewing needle

Sharpening Sewing Needles

Don’t discard used fine-grit sandpaper. Twist a sewing needle into a folded piece or poke it through a few times to sharpen the point. This simple trick extends the life of your needles.

Fabric and Material Care

Removing Fuzz Pills on Sweaters

Pesky fuzz balls on sweaters are no match for sandpaper. Gently rub the affected area with any grit sandpaper in a single direction to remove pills and restore a smooth surface.

Sandpaper removing a scuff from suede

Removing Stains and Scuffs on Suede

Fine-grit sandpaper can tackle ink stains or scuff marks on suede. Gently sand the area, then brush with a toothbrush to lift the nap. This can save you a trip to the dry cleaner.

Sandpaper removing a scorch mark from wool

Removing Scorch Marks on Wool

Minimize the appearance of small scorch marks on wool by lightly sanding around the edges with medium-grit sandpaper. This helps blend the mark into the surrounding fabric.

Enhancing Grip and Removing Stains

Roughening Slippery Leather Soles

New shoes with slick leather soles can be hazardous. Create traction by sanding the soles widthwise with sandpaper. This provides a safer grip and prevents slips.

Removing Stubborn Grout Stains

For tough grout stains that resist regular cleaning, try fine-grit sandpaper. Fold it and use the edge to scrub the grout lines, being careful not to scratch the surrounding tiles.

Everyday Hacks

Opening Stuck Jars

Struggling to open a stubborn jar lid? Place a piece of sandpaper grit-side down on the lid for improved grip. This added friction helps break the seal.

Sandpaper as a makeshift emery board

Making a Makeshift Emery Board

In a pinch, a piece of fine-grit sandpaper (120 or 150 grit) can serve as an emery board for smoothing nails. This is a handy temporary solution for nail care.

Deterring Slugs

Protect potted plants from slugs by placing used sanding discs, wider than the pot base, underneath. The rough texture deters slugs from crawling up into your plants.

Conclusion

Sandpaper’s versatility extends beyond woodworking. From sharpening tools to removing stains and even deterring pests, sandpaper is a surprisingly useful tool to have around the house. Keep a variety of grits on hand to tackle these unexpected tasks.