ᐅ How do I install Ikea Metod drawers with soft-close mechanism?

Created on: 12 Sep 2020 08:42
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Potaklo
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Potaklo
12 Sep 2020 08:42
Hello everyone,

I plan to install Ikea Metod drawers in my new kitchen and definitely want to use the soft-close feature to ensure the drawers close smoothly and quietly. However, I’m not entirely clear on how to install the drawers with this soft-close function and whether any special parts or installation steps are required.

Specifically, I would like to ask: How do I correctly install Ikea Metod drawers with soft-close? Is there a difference in the installation process compared to regular Metod drawers without soft-close? And what should I pay special attention to during installation to make sure the soft-close works properly and doesn’t get stuck or cause malfunctions?

I’m looking forward to tips or a step-by-step illustrated explanation—any advice about the right IKEA fittings or adjustment options would also be very helpful.

Thanks in advance!
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NUPIN
12 Sep 2020 09:15
Hi Potaklo!

This is a great topic—the automatic soft-close dampers on the Metod drawers really make a difference 😍! You definitely need the special drawer slides with soft-close, which are only available from Ikea for the Metod series.

It’s important to install the damper components correctly on the slides and to ensure the slide and drawer are perfectly aligned. A tip: When you insert the drawer, you’ll hear a click sound, which indicates the damper is properly engaged.

You’ll quickly notice if the damping isn’t working, usually the drawer will then close abruptly or not smoothly at all. So it’s better to measure twice before tightening everything! Good luck, you’ve got this!! 😄
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Juan31
12 Sep 2020 10:03
Additional information:

The Ikea Metod drawers with automatic soft-close use a special full-extension slide with an integrated soft-close damper. This slide differs from standard full-extension slides by having a built-in mechanism for delayed closing.

Important points:
- The damper slides must be fully installed on the cabinet frame.
- The drawers are then hooked onto the slides, where the soft-close engages correctly.
- Adjustment of the guidance is done via the side adjustment screws on the slides to ensure smooth sliding.

Compared to regular drawers without soft-close, the installation effort is somewhat higher because you need to pay attention to the fixed mounting points of the damper.

Recommendation: Before installation, be sure to carefully review the enclosed assembly instructions to avoid confusing parts.
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Ethan
12 Sep 2020 11:28
Hello Potaklo,

I’m happy to help and will explain step by step how to install the Metod drawers with soft-closing dampers:

- First, mount the soft-close rails to the kitchen cabinet carcass: ensure equal spacing and level alignment! The rails usually come pre-drilled, so you can secure the screws there.
- Next, prepare the Metod drawer: firmly attach the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer.
- Now, hang the drawer onto the rails. Important: you need to position the drawer so that the guide rollers snap into the rails.
- A clear click will indicate that the soft close mechanism is correctly engaged.
- Check the drawer’s closing: it should close smoothly and quietly.

If the drawer sticks or closes too fast, double-check the alignment and that all components are properly secured.

If you have any questions, just ask! 😊
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Jamalli
12 Sep 2020 13:02
NUPIN schrieb:
You definitely need the special soft-close drawer slides, which are only available from Ikea for the Metod series.

I have to add here: There are actually retrofit damping mechanisms available for other drawer systems, but with Ikea Metod, the soft-close slides are integrated and not replaceable. This means that if you want to add damping later, you should either replace the entire slides or use the original matching Metod part.
Juan31 schrieb:
The adjustment of the guide is done via the side adjustment screws on the slides to ensure optimal smoothness.

It should be noted that precise adjustment not only improves comfort but also extends the lifespan of the damping mechanism. Incorrect adjustment often leads to increased wear.

Therefore, my advice to everyone: take your time for accurate alignment and measure twice if necessary—the damping effect depends not only on the mechanism but also on good installation quality.
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chen67
12 Sep 2020 14:45
Hey Potaklo,

I recently installed the Metod drawers with soft-close myself, and I can only say: it’s totally worth it! 🤩 The dampening really gives that premium feel when opening and closing.

A few additional tips I can recommend:
- Use drawer slides that can be lightly oiled (but not too much oil, or they’ll attract dust).
- When hanging them, watch out for the small springs that lock the drawer in place, otherwise it might pop off the first time you open it 😂.

A little tip from a kitchen enthusiast (well, just a hobby cook 😉): If you need to remove the drawers often during installation, don’t overdo the dampening when taking them out—the mechanism can get tricky quickly.

Have fun working on it! 👍