ᐅ Easily Retrofit and Adjust IKEA Metod Soft-Close Drawers

Hello everyone,

I am planning to upgrade the existing drawers in my IKEA Metod kitchen to soft-close. Unfortunately, the original drawers do not have any damping, which often causes them to slam loudly when closed.

My question is whether it is relatively easy to retrofit the Metod drawers with a soft-close function without requiring much tool work?

I am also interested in how to reliably adjust the soft-close function so that the drawer closes neither too slowly nor too quickly, and at the same time closes flush and quietly.

If anyone has experience retrofitting this soft-close mechanism on Metod drawers, I would greatly appreciate a detailed description of the process, tool recommendations, and tips for adjustment.

Thank you in advance!

Elian schrieb:
I am planning to upgrade the existing drawers in my IKEA Metod kitchen to soft-close. Unfortunately, the original drawers don’t have any damping, which often causes loud slamming when closing the drawer.

Upgrading IKEA Metod drawers to soft-close is generally possible, but there are some important details to consider.

- IKEA offers special soft-close hinges and drawer slides for Metod, which are installed directly on new drawers. For retrofitting, the best option is the so-called soft-close drawer slides with built-in damping.
- You need to completely remove the old drawer slides first. For this, you usually need a screwdriver and possibly a small Allen key, depending on the type.
- When installing the new soft-close slides, follow the assembly instructions carefully, as they specify the position of the dampers and the correct tightening of the screws.
- Adjusting the soft-close function is usually done via small adjustment screws or eccentric cams that affect the pressure and closing speed. It is best to make small adjustments and test frequently.
- To achieve flush closing and optimal damping, you may also need to slightly adjust the rails on the drawer to avoid protrusions or misalignment.

Anyone with some DIY skills should be able to complete this within a few hours. Without special tools—only a standard screwdriver and possibly an Allen key—this should not be a problem.

My recommendation: For existing standard slides, clip-on dampers tend to be less stable and not very neat visually. Therefore, it’s best to buy the official IKEA soft-close slides and replace the old ones completely.

reybo schrieb:
Retrofitting IKEA Metod drawers with soft-close is generally possible, but there are some important details you should keep in mind.

Exactly like that. Simply remove the old drawer slides and install new ones with soft-close.
For adjustment: Most soft-close rail systems can be fine-tuned by turning the damper itself.
You usually don’t need any special tools; a standard screwdriver is sufficient.

That’s all.

Elian schrieb:
My question is whether it is relatively easy to retrofit the Metod drawers with a soft-close function without needing many tools?

Yes, that is definitely possible. The important thing is to buy the correct soft-close drawer slides for Metod.

reybo schrieb:
You first need to completely remove the old drawer slides.

That's correct. After that, simply screw on the new ones. Then you can adjust the damper, usually with a small adjustment screw.

When you pull the drawers out and push them back in, you can test the function and fine-tune it.