ᐅ Ikea Besta – What is the best way to adjust the drawers?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought an Ikea Besta shelving unit and wanted to ask how to best adjust the drawers so that they all close perfectly flush and even. I have tried a few things and noticed that there are some adjustment options on the rails and sides, but the manual is rather limited when it comes to fine-tuning.

I’m particularly interested in the best methods to:
- align the drawers laterally (side to side),
- adjust the front panels so they are all at the same height,
- and optimize smooth operation and closing.

Are there any proven techniques or tips you use? I want to avoid the drawers warping or not closing properly over time. Thanks in advance for your advice!

Lewfi schrieb:
I’m especially interested in the best methods to:
- align drawers laterally (side to side),
- adjust the front panels so they are all at the same height,
- and optimize smoothness of operation and closing.

Hello Lewfi,

I’m happy to provide a step-by-step guide on how I adjust my Besta drawers. First, it’s important to understand that the drawers have multiple adjustment screws on the front panel, allowing you to move them vertically and horizontally.

1. Remove the drawer: Pull it out completely to access the adjustment screws on the side and front.

2. Lateral adjustment: Usually, the metal or plastic runners on the side have small screws or levers that let you move the drawer slightly left or right. Adjust carefully and repeatedly slide the drawer back in to check the fit.

3. Adjust the front panel: On the back of the front panel, you’ll typically find one or more screws that allow you to move the front up or down. This helps align the drawer heights.

4. Check and fine-tune: Once everything roughly fits, open and close each drawer several times to let the settings settle. Adjust again if necessary.

5. Improve smoothness: Make sure the runners are clean and free of dust, and that the rollers run properly. Sometimes a small drop of silicone oil helps.

With some patience, you can achieve a very precise fit. Ikea fittings are designed for fine adjustment like this.

I hope this helps you!

Keatondra schrieb:
With a bit of patience, you can achieve a very good fit. Ikea fittings are quite finely adjustable; that’s exactly how they’re designed.

I agree with this and would like to add:

- For the Besta drawers, the plastic parts on the sides are especially important for fine lateral adjustment. Simply turn the small wheels on the side to change the alignment.

- For height adjustment: Some fronts have small adjustment screws on the back, which you operate with a Phillips screwdriver. This allows you to calibrate the front with millimeter precision.

- Make sure the drawers are not too tight on the rails. A slight movement ensures smooth operation.

If the drawer fronts are still not properly aligned, it’s worth carefully removing all the drawers to reset all positions at once. This may take some effort but is definitely worthwhile.

Lewfi schrieb:
I want to avoid the drawers warping later or not closing properly.

I completely understand that. I had the same issue when I assembled my Besta shelving unit – the drawers just wouldn’t close properly, and it was really frustrating.

Here’s what I did in the end:

- First, I took all the drawers out and carefully checked the slides to see if anything was sticking or not aligned correctly.
- Then I adjusted the wheels on the sides, working very carefully with small turns, not too much at once.
- I also took extra time for testing – it really takes patience to get everything to fit perfectly.

A tip from me: be patient and allow yourself several short adjustment sessions. You’ll notice the drawers running more smoothly over time, and the fronts will align perfectly.

That feeling when everything “fits” just right is really satisfying. If anything is missing or not working – there are definitely more tips here in the forum.