ᐅ Ikea Metod: How can I retrofit soft-close drawers?

Hello everyone,

I recently purchased an Ikea Metod kitchen unit and noticed that while the drawers are sturdy, they unfortunately do not have a soft-close function. I would like to retrofit soft-close drawers because I prefer the drawers to close more smoothly and quietly.

My question to you is: How can I add soft-close functionality to an existing Metod system without having to replace the entire drawer? Are there specific modules that can be easily integrated? Or do the drawer slides need to be completely replaced?

I would also appreciate tips on tools, installation time, and any potential pitfalls. Additionally, I’m interested in whether Ikea’s soft-close products are the best option here or if there are recommended alternatives that are compatible.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Hey, great topic! 😊 I can tell you that retrofitting soft-close mechanisms on Metod drawers is definitely doable and adds a lot of convenience!

You can either buy the original Ikea soft-close slides (for example, the Metod soft-close runners) which are directly replaceable! The replacement usually goes smoothly without major issues.

Alternatively, there are third-party options that offer soft-close mechanisms for Metod if you’re looking for something more specific.

Tip: When buying, make sure the slides are the exact length to fit your drawers. With a bit of patience, it works really well – good luck! 😉

Simply replace the existing drawer slides completely with soft-close drawer slides.
For this, you will need a screwdriver, possibly a cordless drill.
Rails are available directly as spare parts from Ikea.

First, it is important to know which type of drawer slides you have installed, as Metod uses different kinds of drawer runners.

- If you have the standard full-extension slides without soft-close, you can usually just replace the entire set of rails. Ikea offers soft-close slides specifically for Metod, which make installation easier. Make sure to choose the correct sizes (e.g., 60cm (24 inches) or 80cm (31 inches) length).

- Installation: The old slides are unscrewed, and you just need to ensure that the new rails fit exactly onto the existing screw holes or that you can drill new holes accordingly.

- Tools: A cordless screwdriver with the appropriate bits is helpful, as well as a tape measure to measure the slides.

- Pitfalls: Make sure the soft-close slide matches the front panel and side panels (the standard is usually "front mounting" or "side mounting").

If you want, I can write you a step-by-step guide to cover all these points. Question: How old are your Metod drawers, and have you already identified whether you have full-extension slides or telescopic runners installed?

Domau0 schrieb:
Question: How old are your Metod drawers, and have you confirmed whether they have full extension slides or telescopic runners?

Thank you for the detailed response! My kitchen is just under 2 years old, and I checked during the removal: they have standard full extension slides with side mounting, not telescopic runners. The drawers are 60 cm (24 inches) wide and 20 cm (8 inches) high.

So, I should probably look for soft-close full extension slides with side mounting, right?

I would really like to see your step-by-step guide, especially to know if there are any special precautions I need to take or anything else to consider during disassembly and reassembly.

Jaluklo schrieb:
I would really like to see your step-by-step guide, especially to know if I need to take any special precautions or if there is anything else to keep in mind during disassembly and assembly.

Sure! Here is a detailed procedure:

- Step 1: Pull the drawer out of the cabinet. Usually, this is done by gently pressing release buttons on the sides of the slides.
- Step 2: Unscrew the old rails. Remove all screws using a suitable screwdriver or cordless drill.
- Step 3: Prepare the new soft-close rails. Check if all mounting points align with the existing screw holes.
- Step 4: Screw the new rails onto the cabinet. Make sure the rails are perfectly straight; otherwise, the drawer will not slide smoothly.
- Step 5: Test the drawer. Check that the drawer moves easily and that the soft-close function engages properly.

Caution: If new holes need to be drilled, pay attention to the depth (Metod cabinet has thin walls). It’s best to use a drilling stop or jig.

One more tip: When inserting the drawer, it can help to slightly lift the front guide so it locks into the rail.

If you want, I can provide you with a checklist before assembly to make sure you don’t overlook anything.