How do I fix a drawer that will not slide properly?

Drawer runners fail predictably: overloading, a loose screw, or debris in the mechanism. Only one of those needs a new runner.

What you'll need

• A screwdriver
• A tape measure
• A replacement runner if needed

Step by step

1. Empty the drawer and test it.If it runs smoothly empty, the problem is load rather than mechanism. Most domestic runners are rated around 25 to 35kg and kitchen drawers exceed that easily.
2. Look for debris in the track.Crumbs, a dropped screw, packaging. A vacuum and a wipe fixes a surprising proportion of sticking drawers.
3. Check every fixing.Runners work loose over years. A single loose screw throws the alignment out enough to bind. Tighten all of them on both sides.
4. Check the runner is straight.Sight along it. A bent runner from an overloaded or dropped drawer cannot be straightened reliably and needs replacing.
5. Check the drawer box is square.A racked drawer binds however good the runners are. Push the corners and look for movement in the joints.
6. Lubricate lightly if it is stiff but sound.A dry PTFE spray on ball-bearing runners. Not oil or grease, which collects dust and eventually makes it worse.
7. Identify the runner type before buying.Side-mounted ball bearing, roller, or undermount soft-close. They are not interchangeable and undermount runners are specific to the drawer construction.
8. Measure the length accurately.Runners come in standard lengths — 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500mm. Measure the existing one fully extended and buy the same.
9. Note whether it is full or partial extension.Full extension runners let the drawer come right out. Fitting a partial extension replacement in a kitchen is an obvious downgrade.
10. Replace runners in pairs.A new runner beside a worn one binds. They are sold in pairs for this reason.
11. Mark positions before removing.Pencil round the existing runner on both the drawer and the carcass so the replacement goes back at exactly the same height.

Tips

• Empty it first. Most sticking drawers are simply overloaded.
• Measure the runner fully extended and note whether it is full or partial extension.
• Always replace runners in pairs — a new one beside a worn one binds.

Common mistakes

• Greasing ball-bearing runners — Grease and oil collect dust and grit, which turns into an abrasive paste inside the bearing. A dry PTFE lubricant is correct.
• Fitting the replacement without marking the original position — Even a few millimetres of height difference makes the drawer front sit out of line with its neighbours, and it is fiddly to correct afterwards.

If it doesn't work

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