ᐅ How can I make Ikea BESTA drawers quieter?

Created on: 17 Jul 2024 08:07
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Prakenda65
Hello everyone,

I use several Ikea Besta drawers for storage in my living room, but I have noticed for some time now that opening and closing them is quite loud and sometimes a bit jerky. This bothers me during daily use, and I would like to know how to make the drawers quieter.

I have already checked whether the drawer slides are dirty or bent – that does not seem to be the case. The drawers are also not overloaded.

I am interested in specific tips – for example, technical modifications to the sliding rails, lubricating certain parts, or replacing components. What practical and lasting solutions are there to reduce the typical creaking or squeaking of Ikea Besta drawers?

Thanks for your support!
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vin_leo
18 Jul 2024 07:27
I equipped my Besta drawers with felt tape, which is a really simple and cost-effective solution. You stick the tape on the parts where the drawer slides along the cabinet frame. The result: much quieter and smoother operation.

Also, when lubricating, it’s better to wait a bit before closing the drawer again so the spray can take effect. Otherwise, the lubricant just spreads around and doesn’t properly absorb. ?️
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TEOZAR
18 Jul 2024 08:45
The desire to make Ikea BESTA drawers quieter is quite common. The importance of proper installation is often underestimated.

If the drawer slides are not perfectly aligned, mechanical friction occurs, causing noise.

My recommendation:
- Remove the drawer
- Check the guide rails precisely with a spirit level
- Loosen and realign if necessary
- After cleaning and lubrication, reassemble everything

Smooth movement results in a noticeable reduction in noise.
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Prakenda65
18 Jul 2024 09:05
Jensson schrieb:
Slide the drawer in and out several times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

That makes sense, thanks for the tip! When installing the drawer, do I need to pay attention to specific clearances or heights to ensure it doesn’t fit too tight? I have the impression that mine sits a bit too snugly in the cabinet, which could also affect the noise level.
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KAULIS
18 Jul 2024 09:43
The installation of the drawer is actually a critical factor.

Too narrow side clearances to the slide rails increase friction and cause unpleasant noises. Ideally, there should be a gap of a few millimeters in width and height, so the drawer moves smoothly without sticking but also without excessive play.

If the drawer fits too tightly, the following procedure can help:
- Slightly loosen the screws on the slide rails
- Then reinsert the drawer and adjust the alignment
- Tighten the screws again

Proper operation often makes the difference between quiet and squeaky.
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te-min
19 Jul 2024 06:11
If the drawers are still noisy despite cleaning and lubrication, replacing the drawer slides is worth considering.

Ikea sells replacement parts that sometimes glide better. Alternatively, you can switch to higher-quality drawer runners with a soft-close feature, which are often significantly quieter.
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vin_leo
19 Jul 2024 07:28
te-min schrieb:
Alternatively, you can switch to higher-quality drawer slides with a soft-close feature, which are often significantly quieter.

That’s exactly what I was about to say! Soft-close slides really make a difference. Sure, Ikea BESTA is affordable, but in my opinion, the investment is well worth it for long-term comfort. The gentle closing is simply easier on the ears and also protects the furniture.