General purpose sanding sponges combine a medium to firm density foam sponge with a moderately aggressive abrasive surface to provide a smooth surface on a variety of surfaces including drywall, wood, metal, and ceramic. General purpose sponges have abrasive applied to four sides of the sponge.

Dust-channeling sanding sponges have grooves cut in the surface to move dust and swarf away from the abrasive.

Single-angle sanding sponges have three flat sides for general sanding and one angled edge for sanding recessed or hard-to-reach surfaces such as crevices, inside corners, and turned contours. Single-angle sponges have abrasive applied to four sides of the sponge.

Dual-angle sanding sponges have two flat sides for general sanding and two angled edges for sanding recessed or hard-to-reach surfaces such as crevices, inside corners, and turned contours. Two angled surfaces extends sponge life for when working primarily on recessed spaces. Dual-angle sponges have abrasive applied to four sides of the sponge.

Flexible foam sanding sponges are thinner and larger than standard sanding sponges for sanding flat, curved, and hard-to-reach areas. Flexible foam sanding sponges have abrasive applied to one side of the sponge.

These sponges smooth surface imperfections and between coats of primer, sealant, and polyurethane. They are generally used when making cabinets and furniture and have abrasive applied to both sides.

Profile sanding sponges flex around curved and recessed surfaces such as those found on raised-panel cabinet doors. They are thinner than standard sanding pads to provide better flexibility and have abrasive on all sides. They can also be used on flat surfaces and a range of surfaces finishes, including bare wood, metal, paint, and plastic.