How To Replace Kitchen Drawers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of your old, sticky, or broken kitchen drawers? Do you want to improve the look and function of your kitchen? Replacing kitchen drawers is a great DIY project that can significantly enhance your kitchen. You might wonder, “Can I really do this myself?” Absolutely! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of kitchen drawer replacement, covering everything from measuring to installing new drawers. It includes how to handle a full drawer box replacement, how to replace drawer slides, and ways to execute a drawer front replacement effectively. If you’re ready for a kitchen drawer upgrade, read on!

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Why Replace Kitchen Drawers?

Replacing your kitchen cabinet drawers might seem like a small project, but it can make a big difference. Here’s why you might want to consider a DIY drawer replacement:

• Improved Functionality: New drawers can slide smoothly and hold more weight.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: A fresh set of drawers can update the look of your entire kitchen.
• Increased Storage: You can customize drawers to better fit your needs.
• Repair Damage: Replacing broken or damaged drawers is essential for safety and usability.
• Boost Home Value: Upgrading your kitchen, even in small ways, can increase your home’s value.

Planning Your Kitchen Drawer Replacement

Before you start ripping out old drawers, careful planning is key. This section covers the essential steps to prepare for a successful kitchen drawer replacement.

1. Assess Your Needs

Think about what you want to achieve with your new drawers.

• Functionality: Do you need deeper drawers for pots and pans? Do you need drawers with dividers for utensils?
• Style: Do you want drawers that match your existing cabinets? Or are you looking for a completely new look?
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend on new drawers? This will influence your choice of materials and hardware.

2. Measure Existing Drawers

Accurate measurements are vital. Here’s how to measure correctly:

• Drawer Box: Measure the height, width, and depth of the existing drawer box. Measure from the outside edges.
• Drawer Front: Measure the height, width, and thickness of the drawer front.
• Opening: Measure the inside width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening where the drawer will sit.
• Drawer Slides: Note the type and length of the existing drawer slides.

Table: Example Measurements

Measurement	Example Value	Notes
Drawer Box Height	4 inches	Measure from the top to the bottom of the drawer box.
Drawer Box Width	15 inches	Measure from side to side of the drawer box.
Drawer Box Depth	20 inches	Measure from the front to the back of the drawer box.
Drawer Front Height	5 inches	Measure from the top to the bottom of the drawer front.
Drawer Front Width	16 inches	Measure from side to side of the drawer front.
Cabinet Opening Width	15 1/2 inches	Inside width of the cabinet where the drawer will be installed.
Drawer Slide Length	20 inches	Measure the metal part of the slide, not including mounting plate.

Pro-Tip: Measure each drawer individually, as sizes can vary, especially in older kitchens.

3. Choose Your New Drawers

You have several options when choosing new drawers:

• Pre-made Drawers: These are standard-sized drawers that you can buy at home improvement stores. They are usually the most affordable option.
• Semi-Custom Drawers: These drawers offer more flexibility in terms of size and features. You can often order them online or from cabinet suppliers.
• Custom Kitchen Drawers: These drawers are made to your exact specifications. They are the most expensive option but offer the best fit and style.
• Drawer Fronts: If your existing drawer boxes are in good shape, you might only need to replace the drawer fronts.

4. Select Drawer Slides

Drawer slides are what allow your drawers to open and close smoothly. There are several types of drawer slides to choose from:

• Side-Mount Slides: These slides are mounted on the sides of the drawer box and the cabinet. They are the most common type of drawer slide.
• Center-Mount Slides: These slides are mounted under the center of the drawer box. They are often used in smaller drawers.
• Undermount Slides: These slides are mounted under the drawer box and are hidden from view. They offer a clean, modern look.
• Soft-Close Slides: These slides have a mechanism that gently closes the drawer, preventing slamming.

Pro-Tip: Choose drawer slides that can support the weight you plan to put in the drawers.

5. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

Tools:

• Screwdriver (both Phillips and flathead)
• Drill
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Level
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Clamps

Materials:

• New drawer boxes
• New drawer fronts (if needed)
• New drawer slides
• Screws
• Wood glue (if assembling drawer boxes)
• Sandpaper (if needed)
• Finishing materials (paint, stain, varnish – if needed)

Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Kitchen Drawers

Now that you’ve planned and prepped, it’s time to get to work! Follow these steps for a successful kitchen drawer replacement.

1. Remove the Old Drawers

• Empty the Drawers: Remove everything from the drawers.
• Detach the Drawer Front: Some drawer fronts are attached with screws from the inside of the drawer box. Others may be attached with glue or clips. Carefully detach the drawer front without damaging the cabinet.
• Remove the Drawer Box: Extend the drawer as far as it will go. Look for release levers or clips on the drawer slides. Press or lift these to release the drawer box from the slides.
• Remove the Old Drawer Slides: Unscrew the old drawer slides from the cabinet and the drawer box.

2. Prepare the Cabinet Opening

• Clean the Opening: Remove any debris, dirt, or old hardware from the cabinet opening.
• Repair Damage: If there is any damage to the cabinet walls, repair it with wood filler or shims.
• Ensure Squareness: Use a level to make sure the cabinet opening is square. If it’s not, you may need to use shims to create a level surface for the new drawer slides.

3. Install the New Drawer Slides

• Mark the Location: Use your measuring tape and pencil to mark the location of the new drawer slides inside the cabinet. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct placement.
• Attach the Slides: Align the drawer slides with your marks and screw them into the cabinet walls. Make sure the slides are level and securely attached.
• Attach Slides to Drawer Box: If you’re assembling the drawer box, do so. Then, attach the mating parts of the drawer slides to the sides of the new drawer box.

4. Assemble the New Drawer Box (If Necessary)

If you purchased a flat-pack drawer box, you’ll need to assemble it.

• Apply Glue: Apply wood glue to the joints of the drawer box pieces.
• Assemble the Box: Fit the pieces together, ensuring they are square and flush.
• Secure with Screws: Use screws to secure the joints.
• Clamp and Dry: Clamp the drawer box together and let the glue dry completely.

5. Attach the Drawer Front

• Position the Front: Carefully position the drawer front on the drawer box. Use clamps to hold it in place.
• Pre-Drill Holes: Pre-drill holes through the drawer box into the drawer front. This will prevent the wood from splitting.
• Attach with Screws: Use screws to attach the drawer front to the drawer box.

Pro-Tip: Use a countersinking bit to create a recess for the screw heads, creating a flush finish.

6. Install the New Drawer

• Align the Drawer: Align the drawer slides on the drawer box with the slides in the cabinet.
• Slide the Drawer In: Gently slide the drawer into the cabinet until it clicks into place.
• Test the Drawer: Open and close the drawer several times to make sure it slides smoothly.
• Adjust if Necessary: If the drawer doesn’t slide smoothly, check the alignment of the drawer slides. You may need to adjust their position slightly.

7. Final Adjustments

• Check Alignment: Make sure the drawer front is flush with the surrounding cabinets.
• Tighten Screws: Tighten all screws to ensure everything is secure.
• Clean Up: Remove any debris or fingerprints from the new drawers.

Fathoming Drawer Slide Types and Installation

Choosing the right drawer slide is crucial for smooth operation and longevity. Here’s a closer look at different types and their installation quirks.

Side-Mount Drawer Slides

• Description: These are the most common and affordable. They attach to the sides of the drawer box and cabinet.
• Installation: Easy to install; requires accurate measurements to ensure proper alignment.
• Pros: Affordable, widely available.
• Cons: Can be visible, may reduce drawer box width.

Center-Mount Drawer Slides

• Description: A single slide mounted beneath the center of the drawer.
• Installation: Simpler installation than side-mounts.
• Pros: Inexpensive, good for lightweight drawers.
• Cons: Less stable than side-mounts, lower weight capacity.

Undermount Drawer Slides

• Description: Concealed beneath the drawer box, offering a clean look. Often include soft-close mechanisms.
• Installation: More complex installation requiring specific drawer box construction.
• Pros: Hidden, smooth operation, often soft-close.
• Cons: More expensive, requires precise installation.

Soft-Close Drawer Slides

• Description: Slides with a mechanism that gently closes the drawer, preventing slamming. Available in side-mount and undermount styles.
• Installation: Similar to regular slides, but may require additional adjustments.
• Pros: Prevents slamming, reduces noise, extends drawer life.
• Cons: More expensive.

Table: Drawer Slide Comparison

Feature	Side-Mount	Center-Mount	Undermount	Soft-Close
Visibility	Visible	Visible	Hidden	Varies
Installation	Easy	Easy	Complex	Easy/Complex
Weight Capacity	High	Low	High	High
Cost	Low	Low	High	Medium/High
Smoothness	Good	Fair	Excellent	Excellent

Customization: Making Your Drawers Unique

Once your new drawers are installed, you can customize them to better suit your needs and style.

• Drawer Organizers: Add drawer dividers, utensil trays, or spice racks to keep your drawers organized.
• Drawer Liners: Protect the bottom of your drawers with drawer liners. You can use cork, felt, or non-slip liners.
• Decorative Hardware: Replace the drawer pulls or knobs to match your kitchen décor.
• Paint or Stain: Paint or stain the drawer fronts to match your cabinets or create a contrasting look.

Repairing vs. Replacing: Making the Right Choice

Sometimes, a full drawer box replacement might not be necessary. Here’s how to decide whether to repair or replace:

Repair If:

• The drawer box is structurally sound.
• The damage is minor (e.g., a loose joint or a scratched surface).
• You can easily repair the damage with glue, screws, or sandpaper.
• You want to save money.

Replace If:

• The drawer box is severely damaged (e.g., broken sides or a warped bottom).
• The drawer slides are broken or worn out.
• You want to upgrade the look or functionality of your drawers.
• The cost of repair is close to the cost of replacement.

Costs Involved in Kitchen Drawer Replacement

The cost of kitchen drawer replacement can vary depending on several factors:

• Type of Drawers: Pre-made drawers are the least expensive, while custom kitchen drawers are the most expensive.
• Materials: Solid wood drawers are more expensive than plywood or particleboard drawers.
• Drawer Slides: Soft-close and undermount slides are more expensive than side-mount slides.
• Hardware: Decorative drawer pulls or knobs can add to the cost.
• Installation: If you hire a professional to install the drawers, you’ll need to factor in labor costs.

Table: Estimated Costs

Item	Estimated Cost
Pre-made Drawer Box	$20 – $50
Semi-Custom Drawer Box	$50 – $100
Custom Drawer Box	$100+
Drawer Front	$15 – $50
Drawer Slides (pair)	$10 – $50
Installation (per drawer)	$30 – $100

Note: These are just estimates. Actual costs may vary.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Deciding whether to tackle a DIY drawer replacement or hire a professional depends on your skills, time, and budget.

DIY Advantages:

• Cost Savings: You’ll save on labor costs.
• Flexibility: You can work at your own pace and customize the project to your liking.
• Satisfaction: You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself.

DIY Disadvantages:

• Time Commitment: It can take several hours to replace all the drawers in your kitchen.
• Skill Required: You’ll need to be comfortable using basic tools and taking accurate measurements.
• Potential for Mistakes: If you make a mistake, it can cost you time and money to fix it.

Professional Installation Advantages:

• Expertise: A professional installer will have the experience and knowledge to do the job right.
• Time Savings: The job will be completed quickly and efficiently.
• Warranty: Many professional installers offer a warranty on their work.

Professional Installation Disadvantages:

• Higher Cost: You’ll need to pay for labor costs.
• Less Control: You’ll have less control over the project and may need to compromise on your design ideas.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best material for kitchen drawer boxes?

A: Plywood and solid wood are excellent choices. Plywood is stable and affordable, while solid wood offers a premium look and feel.

Q: Can I just replace the drawer fronts?

A: Yes, if your existing drawer boxes are in good condition, you can simply replace drawer fronts for a quick and easy update.

Q: How do I choose the right size drawer slides?

A: Choose drawer slides that are the same length as the depth of your drawer box. Make sure the slides can support the weight you plan to put in the drawers.

Q: How do I fix a drawer that sticks?

A: First, check for obstructions. Then, lubricate the drawer slides with silicone spray or wax. If the drawer is still sticking, you may need to adjust the position of the drawer slides.

Q: Who is a good source for custom kitchen drawers?

A: Many online retailers and local cabinet shops offer custom kitchen drawers. Get quotes from several suppliers before making a decision.

Q: What kind of screws should I use for installing drawer slides?

A: Use wood screws that are long enough to penetrate the cabinet frame or drawer box, but not so long that they poke through the other side. Typically, 3/4-inch to 1-inch screws are sufficient.

Q: How do I measure for custom drawer boxes?

A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening where the drawer will sit. Subtract a small amount (typically 1/2 inch to 1 inch) from each dimension to allow for clearance.

Q: What should I do if my cabinets are not square?

A: Use shims to create a level and square surface for the drawer slides. You may also need to adjust the drawer box to fit the opening.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully replace kitchen drawers and transform your kitchen into a more functional and stylish space. Whether you choose a DIY drawer replacement or hire a professional, the key is to plan carefully and take your time. With a little effort, you can achieve a kitchen drawer upgrade that you’ll enjoy for years to come.