07/09/2026
What Is Emery Cloth... and Is It Really What You're Looking For?
The term "emery cloth" is often used as a catch-all phrase for cloth-backed abrasives, but true emery cloth and modern aluminum oxide cloth are actually different products.
Traditional Emery Cloth
• Made with natural emery minerals
• Commonly used for cleaning, polishing, and surface preparation on metal
• Available in coarse, medium, and fine grades
Aluminum Oxide Cloth
• Cuts faster and lasts longer
• Available in a wide range of grit sizes
• Ideal for modern metalworking, rust removal, sanding, and finishing applications
Here's a quick tip: If you're searching for 80, 120, or 180 grit "emery cloth," you're probably looking for aluminum oxide cloth instead.
Choosing the right abrasive can improve efficiency, extend product life, and help you achieve better results on the job.
Not sure which abrasive is best for your application? Please read the full blog post here:
If you've ever searched for emery cloth, you may have noticed that the term is often used to describe several different abrasive products. While true emery cloth still exists, many customers who ask for emery cloth today are actually looking for a...
