ᐅ How do you properly sand the wooden edges of Ikea PLATSA units?

Good morning everyone, I’m currently facing a small DIY issue and hope you can share your expertise: How do you properly sand the wooden edges of the Ikea Platsa furniture without damaging the surface or causing the edges to fray?

In my previous attempts, the edges often appeared uneven and somewhat rough. I suspect I might be using the wrong grit of sandpaper or the incorrect technique. I’m also wondering if it’s necessary to apply a sealant or some kind of treatment after sanding to prevent the edges from swelling or wearing down with later use.

Could someone please explain step by step the best way to do this, which materials (sandpaper, sponges) are needed, and how much pressure should be applied? Thanks in advance!

Hello heide57,

Your question is great because sanding PLATSA furniture is often underestimated. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide that has proven effective:

- Start with fine sandpaper, for example, grit 220. Coarser grits sand faster but can damage the surface.
- Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid rough edges. PLATSA surfaces are usually coated with melamine resin, which needs gentle treatment.
- Use only light to medium pressure to prevent the edge from fraying.
- To sand rounded edges, you can optionally use a sanding sponge, which adapts better and provides a more even surface.
- After sanding, wipe the edges with a damp cloth to remove sanding dust.
- If the edge looks very raw, applying a thin layer of furniture wax or a suitable varnish is recommended to restore water resistance and durability.

Typical mistakes are starting with too coarse a grit or applying too much pressure. Also, sanding against the grain is immediately noticeable. Good luck!

I have always used 220-grit sandpaper on my PLATSA edges. Always sand carefully and only in the direction of the wood grain. Do not apply too much pressure. Afterwards, wipe off the dust and you’re done.

Lyndon55 schrieb:
After sanding, you can wipe the edges with a damp cloth to remove the sanding dust.

Absolutely – nothing is more annoying than sanding dust everywhere! I also find a sanding sponge invaluable because it adapts perfectly to curves and helps you sand more evenly.

And hey, if you apply a protective finish to the edge afterward, it will last much longer. It’s almost like giving your furniture a gentle touch 😉

Short and practical: Use 220-grit sandpaper, sand lightly along the grain, and wipe off the sanding dust. Apply protective varnish or furniture wax if needed. Done.

Thanks for the advice so far!

I have one more question: Is it advisable to treat the PLATSA edges with a special cleaner or degreaser before sanding, or should you sand immediately after assembly?

Also, how much should the edges be rounded off? I mean, if you remove too much material, could the appearance suffer? Is there any kind of guideline for the rounding depth or radius?