ᐅ What should I do if IKEA HEMNES drawers do not close properly?

Hello everyone, I have a problem with my IKEA Hemnes dressers: The drawers can be pulled out, but they don’t close properly. Specifically, they get stuck on the frame or don’t slide smoothly in the runners, causing them to sometimes pop open or sit crooked. I have already checked for any foreign objects in the drawer slides but didn’t find anything. The dresser is assembled correctly, but it is a bit old and has been moved several times. I’m interested in your recommendations for what to do when Hemnes drawers don’t close properly. Should the runners be adjusted, replaced, or are there any special tricks with lubricants or similar? Thanks for your experience and tips!

There is a high probability that the slides are no longer perfectly aligned. Check if all screws are tightened – sometimes just a slight tightening is enough. If the drawer sticks, you can slightly loosen the runners and readjust them. Do not use any lubricant, as it attracts dust.

There is a systematic approach to the common issues with IKEA HEMNES drawers:
- First, check the fit of all components: rails, rollers, and side panels.
- Inspect for any warping in the wood or distorted parts, especially if the dresser has been moved.
- Many screws can loosen through daily use; tightening them is often necessary.
- If the rails are rusted or damaged, they should be replaced.
- Lubricants are only useful for specific plastic or metal guides, but in most cases, mechanical cleaning is sufficient.

Carefully adjusting the drawer slides usually provides the most lasting solution.

CARLA schrieb:
If the rails are rusty or damaged, they should be replaced.

I can only agree! Once those things start sticking, it’s usually better to replace them completely rather than constantly trying to fix them. And hey, while you’re at it, give the dresser a little extra care—happy adjustments can almost be seen as a kind of small maintenance ritual for furniture 😉!

Very important: Don’t lose hope! Although it may sound annoying, it is often a very simple problem.

I had an HEMNES myself where the drawers no longer closed properly. After adjusting the screws slightly and removing small wood splinters from the track, everything fit perfectly again.

If you’re a bit handy, don’t be discouraged – it’s worth doing it yourself! Besides, a dresser like that will look great again and work perfectly. Good luck!