What is the difference between sandpaper and emery cloth?

In industrial grinding, finishing, and DIY projects, sandpaper and emery cloth are two common abrasive tools, but they differ significantly in structure, material, and application scenarios.

Abrasive Material & Backing

Sandpaper typically uses silicon carbide or aluminum oxide as abrasive grains, bonded to a flexible paper or cloth backing. Paper-backed sandpaper is lightweight and affordable, while cloth-backed versions offer better tear resistance.

Emery cloth, by contrast, is made with emery—a natural mix of corundum and magnetite—as the abrasive. Its backing is exclusively a sturdy woven cloth, which gives it superior durability and heat resistance compared to most sandpapers.

Performance & Application

Sandpaper is ideal for woodworking, drywall sanding, and paint removal. Its sharp, uniform abrasive grains deliver a smooth finish on soft materials. Fine-grit sandpaper is also used for polishing metal surfaces, but it wears down quickly under heavy friction or wet conditions.

Emery cloth is designed for metalworking tasks, such as deburring, rust removal, and sharpening tools. The tough cloth backing resists tearing during aggressive sanding, and emery grains hold up well against hard metals. It can be used dry or with a small amount of oil to reduce clogging, but it is not suitable for wood—its coarse grains may leave deep scratches.

Cost & Maintenance

Sandpaper is generally cheaper, making it a cost-effective choice for one-time or light-duty projects. However, it clogs easily when sanding paint or resin.

Emery cloth has a higher upfront cost but lasts longer, especially for repeated metal grinding. Its cloth backing is washable and reusable, which offsets the initial expense over time.