ᐅ KALLAX Used as a Chest of Drawers – Drawers Become Unusable After Moving?

Hello everyone, I have a concern that came up after my recent move with my KALLAX shelf used as a chest of drawers. I originally used the KALLAX for clothing storage by installing several drawers. Everything worked perfectly until the move, but now the drawers barely open or close. It seems as if the drawers have become warped or misaligned due to the transport or the new setup. My question is: Does anyone know this issue with KALLAX chests of drawers after moving, where the drawers suddenly become unusable? Are there any practical tips on how to make the drawers function properly again without having to buy new ones? I would appreciate any advice on possible causes and solutions.

Hello Arlindja, your issue sounds familiar to me, and I can explain step by step what often causes it and how you can fix it.

First, the KALLAX shelf is sturdy but does not tolerate strong twisting forces. Especially during a move, the frames can warp slightly, or the drawer runners may shift a little.

Second, you should carefully check the fit of the drawers and the shelf: see if the runners slide smoothly into the tracks or if any slats are causing obstructions. Sometimes it’s enough to completely loosen the runners and realign them with gentle pressure.

Third, check if the floor under the KALLAX is level. An uneven surface can distort the shelf and cause the drawers to stick.

Summary:
1. Remove the drawers and inspect the runner rails.
2. If necessary, adjust the runners or unscrew and refasten them.
3. Place the shelf on a level floor.
4. For slight pressure points, use wooden strips or thin cardboard as shims.

I hope this helps. If you provide more precise measurements or descriptions, I can offer more specific advice.

devon9 schrieb:
During a move, it can happen that the frames slightly warp or the drawer slides shift just a little.

That’s exactly what happened to me – after moving, suddenly none of the drawers would open or close properly because the whole shelving unit had warped just a tiny bit. My advice: try removing all the drawers completely, then stand the unit upright on a perfectly level surface and gently adjust it until everything fits. Sometimes the slides just get slightly misaligned.

devon9 schrieb:
For minor crushing damage, use wooden strips or thin cardboard as filler material.

A bit of creativity helps – I used small strips of cardboard as guides. Also, a little gentle encouragement for the furniture works 🙂 If that doesn’t help, inexpensive replacement parts for the slides are available if something is bent.

Good luck, and keep us updated!

Hello Arlindja,

I would like to add a few precise tips in addition to the previous advice since I am very familiar with the KALLAX system and have moved several times myself.

With the KALLAX unit, it is important to know that the drawers usually slide on plastic or metal runners, which need to be very precisely aligned. During a move, not only can the frame become distorted, but the small screws can also loosen easily – Hormax fittings or so-called small swivel connectors can shift out of position.

My suggestion:

1. Remove the drawers completely.
2. Visually check all screws on the runners and tighten if necessary (be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the material).
3. Check the inside of the runners for dirt or dust – clean if needed.
4. Examine the frame, especially where the drawers rest; gently correct minor misalignments by tapping with a hammer using a piece of wood (only carefully to avoid damage).
5. At the new location, make sure to place the KALLAX unit on a truly level surface; if needed, level it with felt pads or small wooden shims.

Very important – if you fill the drawers with heavy items, be sure nothing gets stuck when closing, as this puts extra strain on the runners and causes them to wear out faster.

Please let us know how it goes, and I can share further tips if needed.