Hello everyone, I’ve noticed that the drawers of my IKEA KALLAX shelving unit have started to squeak when I pull them out or push them in. The noise is quite bothersome, and I was wondering if it’s possible to lubricate the rails or guiding elements to eliminate the squeaking. Since I’m not sure which lubricant or oil would be best suited for this or how to proceed, I wanted to ask here:
What options are there for lubricating or oiling KALLAX drawers without damaging the materials? Does anyone have experience with a particular lubricant? Are there specific spots on the drawers or rails that should be treated especially well?
I’m looking forward to your tips and, if possible, a step-by-step guide on how to properly maintain the drawers. Thanks in advance!
What options are there for lubricating or oiling KALLAX drawers without damaging the materials? Does anyone have experience with a particular lubricant? Are there specific spots on the drawers or rails that should be treated especially well?
I’m looking forward to your tips and, if possible, a step-by-step guide on how to properly maintain the drawers. Thanks in advance!
blapau schrieb:
that the KALLAX drawers are made of particleboard or MDF panels and do not have metal drawer slidesThanks for the explanation! Exactly, these are particleboards, and the drawers slide along wooden strips on the sides.
Nathanaelk schrieb:
Should all the screws on the drawer slides be checked beforehandI haven’t actually checked the screws yet. I will do that right away.
One more question: I’ve read that you can also use regular wax – like rubbing candle wax on it. How well does that work compared to silicone spray? And if it does, do you need to reapply it regularly?
Hello praarvid,
Wax is a simple and cost-effective trick often used on wooden furniture. Rubbing candle wax onto the wooden strips creates a surface that is barely sticky and allows smooth sliding.
However, you need to be careful not to apply too much wax or let it accumulate, as this can make it sticky and attract dirt. The effect usually lasts for several months, depending on usage and humidity.
My advice: test a small area first before treating the entire drawer.
Silicone spray, on the other hand, is often a cleaner option to use. It doesn’t leave a thick layer but provides a thin, quick glide. However, the spray can wear off over time and will need to be reapplied.
Wax is a simple and cost-effective trick often used on wooden furniture. Rubbing candle wax onto the wooden strips creates a surface that is barely sticky and allows smooth sliding.
However, you need to be careful not to apply too much wax or let it accumulate, as this can make it sticky and attract dirt. The effect usually lasts for several months, depending on usage and humidity.
My advice: test a small area first before treating the entire drawer.
Silicone spray, on the other hand, is often a cleaner option to use. It doesn’t leave a thick layer but provides a thin, quick glide. However, the spray can wear off over time and will need to be reapplied.
Ramon4 schrieb:
Wax is a good and affordable trickI completely agree! Waxing drawer runners is practically a classic home remedy. 🙂
If you want something more "natural," in addition to candle wax, try beeswax – it's actually a bit more durable. Just apply a thin layer and polish it with a soft cloth.
And honestly, sometimes a little patience and light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper before applying anything can make a big difference. It helps ensure everything moves smoothly and evenly.
dijan schrieb:
Sometimes a bit of patience and light sanding with fine sandpaper is enoughThanks, I’ll give that a try. What type of sandpaper would you recommend for this? I’m thinking something between grit 220-320?
Also, how exactly should I proceed when sanding to avoid damaging the surface? Should I only work on the edges where the drawer slides, or is it better to sand down the entire wooden strip?
Looking forward to some tips so I can smoothly slide the drawers later 🙂
praarvid schrieb:
Which sandpaper grit would be recommended for this purpose?For KALLAX wooden strips, I would suggest using 320 grit, as it is fine enough to prevent scratches on the wood edges.
Sand only the areas where the drawer actually slides, usually the edges and contact surfaces.
Important: Don’t overdo it, just smooth out minor unevenness. Then dust off thoroughly before applying wax or silicone spray.
This way, the drawers will glide smoothly again without damaging the wood.
One last quick tip:
If you use silicone spray, it's best to apply it with the window open or outdoors. The fumes are not very pleasant in enclosed spaces.
Also, the spray can make floors slippery, so be careful where you spray!
Other than that, it is very effective against annoying squeaking.
If you use silicone spray, it's best to apply it with the window open or outdoors. The fumes are not very pleasant in enclosed spaces.
Also, the spray can make floors slippery, so be careful where you spray!
Other than that, it is very effective against annoying squeaking.
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