If you have soft close drawers in your cabinets, you know how convenient they can be. However, over time, they may start to malfunction and not close smoothly. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix soft close drawers and get them working like new again.
Check for Obstructions: The first thing you should do is check for any obstructions that may be preventing the drawer from closing properly. Look inside the drawer and along the tracks to make sure there are no items blocking the movement of the drawer.
Tighten Loose Screws: Soft close drawers rely on screws to function properly. If the screws are loose, the drawer may not close as smoothly as it should. Take a screwdriver and tighten any loose screws you find along the tracks or on the drawer itself.
Replace Damaged Parts: If you have checked for obstructions and tightened loose screws but the drawer still isn’t closing properly, you may need to replace damaged parts. Inspect the soft close mechanism and look for any parts that are broken or worn out. Replace these parts as needed to restore the function of the drawer.
Check for Obstructions
One common reason why soft close drawers may not be working properly is due to obstructions within the drawer itself. Open the drawer fully and carefully inspect the tracks for any debris, dirt, or items that may be blocking the smooth movement of the drawer.
Remove any obstacles
If you find any obstructions, remove them carefully to ensure that the drawer can glide freely along the tracks. Clean the tracks with a damp cloth to remove any build-up that may be hindering the soft close mechanism from functioning properly.
Tighten Loose Screws
If your soft close drawers are not functioning properly, one common issue could be loose screws. Over time, screws can become loose due to regular use of the drawers. To fix this problem, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check for Loose Screws
Inspect the sides of the drawers and the slides to identify any loose screws that may be causing the soft close mechanism to not work properly.
Step 2: Tighten Screws
Using a screwdriver, tighten any loose screws you find. Make sure to secure them properly to ensure that the drawers are functioning smoothly.
Adjust Drawer Slides
Loosen the screws on the drawer slides using a screwdriver.
Slide the drawer in and out to check for smooth operation.
Horizontal Adjustment
- Move the slides left or right to align the drawer properly.
- Tighten the screws once the drawer slides are in the correct position.
Vertical Adjustment
- If the drawer is sagging, adjust the slides up or down to level it.
- Secure the screws once the drawer is at the desired height.
Replace Damaged Drawer Slides
To replace damaged drawer slides, start by removing the drawer from the cabinet. Then, unscrew the old slides from the drawer and cabinet using a screwdriver. Make sure to keep track of which screws go where.
Next, measure the length and width of the old slides to ensure you get the correct replacement slides. Purchase new slides that match the measurements of the old ones.
Attach the new slides to the drawer using the screws provided, making sure they are aligned properly. Then, attach the other side of the slides to the cabinet using the same method.
Test the drawer by sliding it in and out to make sure the new slides are functioning smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the drawer closes properly.
Inspect Soft Close Mechanism
Before attempting to fix a soft close drawer, it is important to inspect the soft close mechanism to identify any issues that may be causing the problem. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Remove the Drawer
Begin by removing the drawer from the cabinet to access the soft close mechanism. This will allow you to inspect the mechanism more easily and determine the source of the issue.
Step 2: Check for Obstructions
Inspect the soft close mechanism for any obstructions that may be preventing the drawer from closing properly. Look for any debris, loose screws, or other objects that may be interfering with the mechanism.
| Issue | Possible Solution |
| Loose Screws | Tighten screws to ensure proper alignment. |
| Debris | Clean the mechanism to remove any debris. |
| Worn Parts | Replace worn parts to restore functionality. |
By thoroughly inspecting the soft close mechanism and addressing any issues that are found, you can effectively fix your soft close drawer and restore its smooth operation.
Clean and Lubricate Drawer Slides
One of the most common reasons for soft close drawers not functioning properly is dirt and debris buildup on the drawer slides. To fix this issue, follow these steps:
- Remove the drawers from the cabinet to gain access to the slides.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the slides.
- Inspect the slides for any signs of rust or corrosion. If present, use a rust remover to clean the affected areas.
- Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the slides. Be sure to spread it evenly to ensure smooth operation.
- Reassemble the drawers back into the cabinet and test the soft close function. If the drawers still do not close smoothly, repeat the cleaning and lubrication process.
Replace Soft Close Mechanism
If your soft close drawers are no longer functioning properly, it may be necessary to replace the soft close mechanism. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Remove the Drawer
Empty the drawer and remove it from the cabinet entirely. Place it on a flat surface where you can easily access the bottom of the drawer.
2. Detach the Old Mechanism
Locate the soft close mechanism on the bottom of the drawer. Depending on the type of mechanism, there may be screws or clips holding it in place. Use the appropriate tools to detach the old mechanism carefully.
Once the old mechanism is removed, clean the area where it was installed to ensure a smooth installation for the new mechanism.
3. Install the New Mechanism
Take the new soft close mechanism and position it in place according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Secure it by screwing it in or attaching it with clips, making sure it is properly aligned and functions smoothly.
Test the drawer by opening and closing it to ensure that the new soft close mechanism is working correctly. Adjust as needed to achieve the desired closing speed and smoothness.
Once you are satisfied with the installation, place the drawer back into the cabinet and enjoy your newly fixed soft close drawer.
Upgrade to Heavy Duty Slides
If your soft close drawers are constantly giving you trouble, it might be time to consider upgrading to heavy duty slides. These slides are designed to withstand more weight and provide smoother operation, making them a great solution for drawers that are frequently used.
Benefits of Heavy Duty Slides:
1. Increased weight capacity: Heavy duty slides can support heavier loads without sagging or sticking, making them ideal for storing pots, pans, and other heavy items.
2. Durability: Heavy duty slides are built to last, so you can trust that your drawers will continue to operate smoothly for years to come.
3. Improved stability: With heavy duty slides, you can say goodbye to drawers that wobble or stick, providing a more reliable and user-friendly storage solution.
Align Drawer Fronts
If your soft close drawers are not closing properly, one of the common issues could be misaligned drawer fronts. Misaligned drawer fronts can cause friction and prevent the drawer from closing smoothly. To align the drawer fronts, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Alignment
First, visually inspect the drawer fronts to determine if they are misaligned. Make sure the drawer fronts are evenly aligned with each other and the surrounding cabinets. You can also use a tape measure to check the alignment.
| Drawer Front Alignment | Correct | Incorrect |
| Vertical Alignment | Equal spacing on both sides | One side higher than the other |
| Horizontal Alignment | Even spacing at the top and bottom | One side sticking out more than the other |
Step 2: Adjust Alignment
If you find that the drawer fronts are misaligned, you can adjust them by loosening the screws on the drawer slides and shifting the drawer front into the correct position. Use a level to ensure the drawer front is perfectly aligned vertically and horizontally. Once aligned, tighten the screws to secure the drawer front in place.
Test the Soft Close Function
Once you have fixed the soft close drawer, it is important to test the function to ensure it is working properly. Follow these steps to test the soft close function:
- Pull the drawer out gently and release it. It should close smoothly and quietly on its own.
- Repeat the process multiple times to ensure consistent soft closing.
- If the drawer does not close softly, check the installation and alignment of the soft close mechanism.
- Adjust the mechanism as needed until the drawer closes softly and securely every time.
Consult the Manufacturer’s Instructions
One of the best ways to fix soft close drawers is to consult the manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions will provide specific guidance on how to adjust the soft close mechanism properly. This can include step-by-step instructions on how to adjust the tension or alignment of the drawers to ensure they close smoothly and quietly.
By following the manufacturer’s instructions, you can ensure that you are making the correct adjustments and avoid causing any damage to the drawers. It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the best results.
Hire a Professional if Necessary
If you have tried all the DIY solutions and still can’t fix your soft close drawers, it may be time to bring in a professional. A professional handyman or carpenter will have the expertise and tools needed to assess the problem and make the necessary repairs. They will be able to accurately diagnose the issue and provide a long-lasting solution to ensure your drawers function properly.
While it may cost more than fixing it yourself, hiring a professional can save you time and frustration in the long run. They will have the experience to quickly identify the problem and make the necessary adjustments to get your drawers back on track. Don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to proceed with fixing your soft close drawers.