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FURNITURE REPAIRS

Drawer Sticking

A drawer can stick because it is misaligned, overloaded, swollen by moisture, rubbing on the cabinet or running on worn slides.

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Unload and support furniture before repairing loose joints, hinges or runners

Stop if the item is unstable, cracked, very heavy or likely to collapse. Anchor tall flat-pack furniture to the wall where required.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Runner misalignment The drawer may bind on one side.
Swollen timber Moisture can increase friction.
Obstruction Items may be catching behind or beneath the drawer.
Worn or dirty runners Dust and wear can make movement rough.
◫ Symptom variations Match the exact looseness, movement or surface damage. ⌄
  • Drawer jams halfway
  • One side sits higher
  • Drawer rubs cabinet
  • Problem worse in humid weather
  • Runner feels gritty
✓ Quick checks Simple checks before dismantling furniture. ⌄
  1. Unload and support the item.
  2. Identify the joint or fitting type.
  3. Check screws, connectors and surrounding material.
  4. Look for cracks, swelling or stripped holes.
  5. Use parts suited to the furniture material.
1 Step 1 — Empty and remove the drawer Unload and support the furniture before dismantling, tightening or glueing joints. ⌄

Check for trapped objects and compare both sides.

2 Step 2 — Clean and inspect runners Unload and support the furniture before dismantling, tightening or glueing joints. ⌄

Remove dust and check for bent or loose components.

3 Step 3 — Realign or relieve rubbing Unload and support the furniture before dismantling, tightening or glueing joints. ⌄

Adjust runners or lightly sand swollen timber where appropriate.

⌁ Common causes explained Why furniture joints and fittings fail. ⌄

A drawer can stick because it is misaligned, overloaded, swollen by moisture, rubbing on the cabinet or running on worn slides.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Further checks for recurring or structural failures. ⌄
  • Check cabinet square.
  • Inspect drawer box joints.
  • Lubricate only with suitable dry products.
  • Check soft-close mechanisms.
  • Assess moisture source.
▣ Parts and materials needed Common materials linked to this repair. ⌄
  • Replacement runners
  • Dry lubricant
  • Fine abrasive paper
  • Screws
  • Shims
! When to call a professional Conditions that should end basic DIY work. ⌄
  • The furniture could collapse.
  • Structural timber is cracked.
  • A heavy cabinet or table is unstable.
  • Damage is extensive or valuable veneer is involved.
  • Tall furniture cannot be safely anchored.
? Frequently asked questions Common furniture repair questions. ⌄

Should loose joints just be screwed together?

Not always. Traditional glued joints usually need cleaning, reglueing and clamping.

Can chipboard screw holes be repaired?

Yes, with repair plugs, plates or inserts, depending on the load and damage.