Regular lubrication of the drawer slides will help to prevent the need for repairs or costly replacements. Add function to your furniture by lubricating all the hard-to-slide drawers in your home.
Things You Will Need
Metal Slide
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Pull the drawer out as far as it will go to expose the metal slides on both sides. Remove all items from inside the drawer and set them aside.
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Wipe off any dust or debris from the metal slides on both sides of the drawer with paper towels or a shop cloth.
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Hold paper towels or a shop cloth under the slides as you spray them with a light coat of lubricant. Wipe the dresser slides with the towels or cloth to remove excess lubricant.
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Open and close the dresser drawer a few times to work the lubricant into the slide. Continue with a second application of spray lubricant if the drawer isn't sliding smoothly.
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Return the items to the dresser drawer once you've wiped it clean of all lubricant overspray.
Wood Slide
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Empty the contents of the wood drawer and pull it completely out of the dresser.
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Wipe down the wood slides on the sides of the drawer and those inside the dresser with a dust cloth.
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Rub the end of a white paraffin or pure beeswax candle on all the parts of the wooden slide that come in contact when the drawer is in use.
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Slide the wax coated wooden drawer back into the dresser and evaluate the level of improvement. Wood dresser drawers that continue to stick after a coating of wax may need sanding or additional repairs.
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Return your items to the wood dresser drawer when it's sliding to your satisfaction.
The Drip Cap
- Lubricate dresser drawers for a smoother slide and longer life.
- The layer of lubricant reduces friction in the slide, which in turn reduces wear on your dresser drawers' working parts.
- Hold paper towels or a shop cloth under the slides as you spray them with a light coat of lubricant.
- Empty the contents of the wood drawer and pull it completely out of the dresser.