ᐅ What to do if Ikea Hemnes drawers come off their tracks?

Hello everyone, I have a problem with my Ikea Hemnes dressers. The drawers keep coming off their tracks, even though I installed the slides carefully. This issue happens especially with heavily loaded drawers, for example when there are heavy clothes inside. What is the best way to prevent the drawers from constantly coming off? Are there any specific techniques for adjusting the slides or known weak points in the Hemnes hardware that I should watch out for? I’m looking forward to your advice!

First, check that all the screws of the guide rails are firmly tightened and not loose. At Ikea, screws can sometimes loosen with use. Then insert the drawer slowly and straight to avoid jamming.

Hello xander58, I’ll explain how I solve the problem with Hemnes drawers:

- Step 1: Remove the drawer completely.
- Step 2: Check both sides of the drawer slides for any deformities or foreign objects.
- Step 3: Tighten all screws, including those on the drawer itself.
- Step 4: Inspect the locking mechanisms to ensure they engage properly.
- Step 5: Reinsert the drawer, making sure it slides in straight without tilting.
- Step 6: If the drawer feels stiff, you can apply some wax or silicone spray to the slides, which often improves smooth movement.

When inserting, be especially careful that the slides don’t misalign, otherwise the drawer can pop out. If the chest of drawers is fixed to the wall, even slight tilting might worsen the problem.

Merlin52 schrieb:
Be especially careful when sliding in the drawer to ensure the guides are not misaligned, otherwise the drawer might pop out.

That is correct. Additionally, I would like to point out that the drawer slides in the Ikea Hemnes series combine metal with plastic components. Wear or deformation of the plastic runners can also cause the drawer to come off. Therefore, follow this procedure:

- Visually inspect all plastic parts for cracks or wear
- Replace any damaged plastic gliders
- Adjust the screws so that the guide rails are perfectly parallel and not skewed
- Make sure the dresser is positioned level and flat, as tilting increases stress on the slides

If you store heavy items in the drawer, the load itself is also a factor. It may be advisable to distribute heavy objects over several drawers to reduce the pressure on the guides.

xander58 schrieb:
How can I best proceed to avoid this constant slipping out?

With similar issues, I have always thoroughly cleaned the tracks and removed all dust. Especially with wooden furniture, dirt can easily accumulate there. After that, the guide usually works smoothly again.

tra_nina schrieb:
Wear or deformation of the plastic runners can also cause the drawer to pop out.

This is often the reason. Additionally, I recommend ordering replacement parts and swapping them out if there is heavy wear. Ikea usually offers suitable plastic glides as spare parts.

A quick tip: if you fully remove the drawer and lightly oil the slides, it will make pulling the drawer in and out much easier. Use only a small drop to avoid any dripping onto the wooden frame.