The frustration of drawers that refuse to slide smoothly in your wardrobe or chest of drawers is a common woe for many homeowners. This seemingly simple issue can arise from a variety of factors that once understood, will explain why it happens and how to solve it. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why drawers might not fit properly and explore solutions for this.
Expansion and contraction of wood
Wood is the primary material in many wardrobes and chests of drawers. This material is sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. The natural expansion and contraction of wood fibres can lead to tight or sticky drawers. During humid, warmer months, wood absorbs moisture, causing it to expand and potentially making the drawer dimensions slightly larger than usual. Conversely, in drier conditions often found in the colder months, the wood contracts, leading to smaller dimensions. To address this, you may wish to consider adjusting the humidity levels in your home using a dehumidifier or humidifier, depending on the season.
Poor drawer alignment
Misaligned drawers are a frequent cause of drawers not fitting properly. If the drawers are not properly aligned with the runners, they may tilt or bind, making it difficult to open and close smoothly. Check the alignment by inspecting the tracks and adjusting them as needed. A lot of furniture designs have adjustable tracks that can be shifted to ensure proper alignment. A simple realignment can often resolve the issue of drawers not fitting properly.
Overloading and uneven weight distribution
Just as overloading a wardrobe can lead to leaning, overloading drawers can result in misalignment and difficulty in fitting. If you exceed the recommended weight capacity of drawers, it can strain the runners and prevent smooth operation. Additionally, uneven distribution of weight within the drawers can contribute to misalignment. To remedy this, we recommend a regular routine drawer declutter to avoid excessive overfilling. We also suggest considering storing heavier items elsewhere to prevent overloading the unit.
Misaligned or damaged runners
Runners play a crucial role in facilitating smooth drawer movement. The runners are the part in the drawer which allows the drawer to slot inside and slide to open/close. If these have been misaligned when first setting up, simply realigning these again should rectify any drawer movement issues. Over time, these components may wear out, leading to misalignment and difficulty in fitting. Inspect the runners for any signs of damage, such as warping or bending. If the runners are worn, you can replace them to solve the functionality of your drawers. Check the support page for your product for more information on spare parts for your furniture.
Damaged panels
If the panels have become damaged, it can misshapen the drawer and create problems with the positioning. This is generally not covered under a manufacturing warranty, but you can often solve this with spare parts you can fit yourself. In this case, we recommend visiting the support page for your model and seeing what options you may have available.
Support summary
When drawers in your wardrobe or chest of drawers refuse to cooperate, it's essential to approach the issue by considering what may be causing this to happen. By considering factors such as drawer alignment and weight distribution, you can diagnose the problem and implement effective solutions. Remember, a little attention to detail can go a long way in preserving the longevity and usability of your beloved furniture pieces.
If you need parts for your product, click here to view our video on how to order spare parts.