ᐅ How can IKEA Hemnes drawers be equipped with full-extension slides?
Created on: 22 May 2020 14:37
S
Sueason
Hello everyone,
I recently bought an IKEA Hemnes dresser and am generally satisfied with the drawers. However, I find it frustrating that the drawers do not have full extension slides. This makes it difficult to access the deeper parts of the drawer, and I would like to improve this.
My question is: How can IKEA Hemnes drawers be technically modified to work with full-extension slides?
Ideally, I’m looking for advice on suitable drawer slides, installation instructions, or possible adjustments to the cabinet or the drawers themselves.
It’s important to me that the modifications don’t involve complicated milling or advanced DIY techniques that require a lot of experience. I have some basic handyman skills but would prefer not to take apart large parts of the construction.
Has anyone had experience retrofitting full-extension slides on IKEA Hemnes drawers or possibly found a suitable solution?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I recently bought an IKEA Hemnes dresser and am generally satisfied with the drawers. However, I find it frustrating that the drawers do not have full extension slides. This makes it difficult to access the deeper parts of the drawer, and I would like to improve this.
My question is: How can IKEA Hemnes drawers be technically modified to work with full-extension slides?
Ideally, I’m looking for advice on suitable drawer slides, installation instructions, or possible adjustments to the cabinet or the drawers themselves.
It’s important to me that the modifications don’t involve complicated milling or advanced DIY techniques that require a lot of experience. I have some basic handyman skills but would prefer not to take apart large parts of the construction.
Has anyone had experience retrofitting full-extension slides on IKEA Hemnes drawers or possibly found a suitable solution?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
To be honest, I often find all the retrofitting unnecessarily complicated, and the design of the Hemnes drawers is based on simple mechanics and appearance.
One could also argue that full-extension slides are not really intended for IKEA furniture, and attempting to install something completely different might affect the character and stability of the chest of drawers.
If someone really wants full-extension slides, they should either choose other furniture models with factory-installed full-extension hardware or maybe use a suitable add-on module that is easy to install.
Of course, you can criticize me now, but for me, it is: ‘If it’s IKEA, why not use the IKEA system?’
One could also argue that full-extension slides are not really intended for IKEA furniture, and attempting to install something completely different might affect the character and stability of the chest of drawers.
If someone really wants full-extension slides, they should either choose other furniture models with factory-installed full-extension hardware or maybe use a suitable add-on module that is easy to install.
Of course, you can criticize me now, but for me, it is: ‘If it’s IKEA, why not use the IKEA system?’
theota schrieb:
Honestly, I often find all these retrofits unnecessarily complicatedI see it differently! Especially the option to upgrade Hemnes with full-extension runners really improves usability!
Once you manage to do it, it brings the quality up to top-level standard and makes everyday use much easier. It’s worth the effort if you have some patience and precision!
I did it myself with affordable Blum full-extension runners – now it runs smoothly and is extremely practical!
Jorgela schrieb:
You can remove the original rails and instead install so-called full-extension drawer slides from third-party suppliers.Thanks for the tip! Are there specific brands or types of slides that fit particularly well? Unfortunately, I don’t know any product names.
toril schrieb:
With limited space, I had to partially sand down the inside of the drawer side panels to create enough clearance.How much effort is involved in sanding? Is there a risk of compromising stability or appearance?
And in general: Do I need to measure the drawer dimensions myself precisely, or are there standard sizes for the Hemnes models?
Sueason schrieb:
Are there specific brands or types of drawer slides that fit particularly well?For retrofitting in Hemnes, I recommend drawer slides with a length of 350 mm (14 inches), for example from Blum (such as Blum Tandem), Hettich, or Vollert. These brands offer full-extension slides with ball bearings and soft-close options.
Sueason schrieb:
How difficult is the sanding process? Is there a risk of compromising stability or appearance?Sanding is usually done only on the inside of the drawer’s outer wall and does not affect any load-bearing parts. Stability is generally maintained. The area is normally not visible as it is located inside, so appearance is not impacted.
Sueason schrieb:
Do I need to measure the drawer dimensions exactly myself, or are there fixed standard sizes for Hemnes models?IKEA has published guideline values, but there are variations. Therefore, measuring yourself is recommended, especially the internal dimensions of the drawer and the cabinet sides.
Sueason schrieb:
How extensive is the sanding? Is there a risk of compromising stability or appearance?I sanded using sandpaper and a small handheld sander; it takes about 15 minutes per drawer. Only a minimal interior area is affected.
Stability: No issues observed. The walls are thick enough for this.
Appearance: Invisible since it’s inside. It’s important to apply a light finish with suitable paint or oil if the inner surfaces are treated; otherwise, it can feel rough.
Similar topics