Export Google Sheets as PDF Without Gridlines
Exporting a Google Sheet without gridlines produces a cleaner PDF that looks like a formatted report rather than a raw spreadsheet. This is the default behavior in Google Sheets, but it can be toggled in the print settings.
Gridlines are off by default
When you export a Google Sheet as PDF, gridlines are not included by default. If your exported PDF is already showing gridlines, it is because a previous print setting enabled them.
How to turn off gridlines
Go to File > Download > PDF in Google Sheets. Under 'Formatting', uncheck 'Show gridlines'. The preview on the right updates to show the sheet without gridlines. Click Export to download the PDF. The online converter uses Google's standard layout and doesn't apply this setting.
Using cell borders instead
If you want lines to delineate your data but not the full spreadsheet grid, use Format > Borders to add borders only to the cells you want outlined. This gives you control over which divisions are visible in the PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove gridlines from a Google Sheets PDF export?
Go to File > Print, uncheck 'Show gridlines' under Formatting, close the dialog, then save the PDF with File > Download > PDF.
Can I export some columns with borders and others without?
Yes. Use Format > Borders to apply borders selectively. Turn off gridlines in the print settings. Only the explicit borders you added will appear in the PDF.
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