ᐅ How can squeaking noises be prevented in IKEA Brimnes drawers?

Hello everyone,

I have a common issue with the drawers of my IKEA Brimnes wardrobe: the drawers squeak quite loudly when opening or closing them. I suspect it might be due to the materials or the drawer slides, but before I start working on it, I want to make sure I’m not missing any important details.

My question to you: What proven methods or simple tricks are there to reliably prevent or reduce squeaking noises in IKEA Brimnes drawers? I’m interested in both short-term solutions, such as lubricants, and more permanent improvements, like mechanical adjustments.

It would also be helpful to know if any materials or products are particularly suitable for long-lasting lubrication without causing the drawers to become sticky or attract dust.

I’m looking forward to your recommendations and maybe also to hearing about experiences with other IKEA models or similar furniture with comparable construction.

Thanks in advance!

Hello Edda1,

try using a silicone spray first, as this usually softens the plastic and eliminates the squeaking.

Alternatively, you can treat the tracks and rollers with a dry lubricant based on PTFE to avoid dust accumulation.

Hello Edda1,

I can understand your issue with the squeaking Brimnes drawers, as the drawer runners on this model consist of a combination of metal and plastic parts that can occasionally rub against each other.

To prevent squeaking noises, a multi-step approach is recommended:
- First, create clean, lint-free surfaces: remove dust and dirt from the sliding rails with a dry cloth or a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
- Then use a high-quality, dry PTFE spray to lubricate the moving parts. PTFE provides very low friction without becoming sticky afterward.
- Very important: avoid oil-based lubricants, as they attract dust and can worsen the problem over time.

If the squeaking persists, you can also attach small silicone or felt strips to the plastic guides to dampen mechanical friction.

Keep in mind not to overload the drawers when readjusting, as extra weight and uneven distribution put more strain on the runners and can worsen the issue.

How often do you use the drawers? Sometimes it also helps to slightly tighten the screws of the runner system, as they can loosen over time.

If you like, I can send you a detailed step-by-step guide for cleaning and lubricating.

pauPierce schrieb:
Avoid oil-based lubricants because they attract dust and worsen the problem over time.

That’s a great tip! Nothing is more annoying than a drawer that squeaks and then gets dirty. After your suggestion, I tried silicone spray, and now the drawers slide much more smoothly – all without sticky residue.

And hey, if it starts squeaking again, just spray it briefly once more, and it’s quickly fixed. Easy and lasting – that’s exactly how I like it 😄

To add to the previous information:

IKEA Brimnes primarily uses plastic rollers or track guides running on metal. The squeaking is caused by friction between these materials, often worsened by dirt or lack of lubrication.

Based on my research, before applying lubricants, the following is recommended:
- Check if the drawers are properly aligned and installed. Misalignment increases the load on the guides and can cause squeaking.
- Check the screws of the guides and tighten them if necessary.

Ideally, a PTFE-based dry lubricant should be used, as it offers low friction, does not attract dirt, and does not become sticky.

If this has not been done yet, I recommend cleaning the guides with isopropanol to remove old lubricant residues.

Overall, regular maintenance (cleaning, inspection, lubrication) of the guides is the best way to achieve lasting squeak-free operation.