March 4, 2026, 12:52 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
A cordless screwdriver or drill is an essential tool for DIY enthusiasts. What many don’t know: The device can not only screw or drill, but also sand, for example. How to do this is explained by myHOMEBOOK editor-in-chief Felix Mildner in the series “Easy DIY.”
With a suitable sanding disc, the cordless screwdriver quickly becomes a compact sander. The tool is available for little money at hardware stores, usually as a set with sandpaper of various grits. For smaller projects or hard-to-reach areas, this is a particularly flexible solution.
Sanding with the Cordless Screwdriver–Here’s How
First, the sanding disc attachment is simply clamped into the chuck of the cordless screwdriver. The appropriate sandpaper is placed on the disc–usually attached via a Velcro system. It’s important to choose the right grit: Coarse grits (e.g., 40–80) are suitable for removing material or old paint layers, medium (100–180) for smoothing, and fine (from 240) for finishing. By the way, there are not only attachments for sanding but also for polishing.
Tips for Sanding
When sanding, you should work at a low to medium speed and apply only light pressure. Too much pressure or too high a speed can leave unsightly sanding marks or overheat the material. It’s best to move the device evenly and continuously over the surface—this results in a clean, even finish.
Important: Wear safety goggles and, for dust-intensive work, a dust mask. Always ensure the workpiece is securely fixed.
When a Sanding Disc Is Worthwhile–and When It’s Not
“A sanding disc for the cordless screwdriver is ideal for smaller surfaces, edges, or touch-up work. However, for large surfaces like doors, floorboards, or entire walls, this solution quickly reaches its limits: The contact area is smaller, and the handling is less steady than with an orbital or belt sander. Those who regularly plan larger projects are usually better off with a real sanding device. For quick DIY tasks in between, the cordless screwdriver with a sanding disc is a practical and affordable alternative.”