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BACKDEC 27, 2025
How to Fix a Noisy Drawer That Squeaks Grinds or Rubs
BACKDEC 27, 2025
Looking for more guidance? Take a look at our Repairs overview.
That familiar screech, grind, or squeak every time you open a drawer can be more than just a minor annoyance—it’s a daily disruption. Whether it’s the silverware drawer in your kitchen or the dresser in your bedroom, a noisy drawer is a problem that begs for a solution. The great news is you don’t have to live with it. In most cases, fixing a noisy drawer is a simple, quick, and satisfying DIY project you can tackle in under 30 minutes with just a few basic tools.
You don't need to be a professional handyman to restore peace and quiet to your cabinets and furniture. This guide is like having a friendly expert on the phone, walking you through each step to diagnose the cause of the noise and fix it for good. Let’s get that drawer gliding smoothly and silently again!
Before we jump into the fixes, let’s talk about what’s actually causing that racket. Understanding the root cause will help you apply the right solution the first time. Here are the usual suspects behind a noisy drawer:
Now that you have a better idea of what might be going on, let’s get our hands dirty and fix it.
We'll start with the easiest and most common fixes first. Grab a flashlight and a screwdriver, and let’s begin.
First things first, let's play detective. A good inspection will often point you directly to the problem.
Based on what you find, proceed to the next relevant step.
You’d be amazed at how often a simple cleaning solves the problem. If you spotted any gunk during your inspection, this is your first fix.
If cleaning didn't do the trick, or if you noticed some wobbling during your inspection, it’s time to check the hardware.
If the drawer is clean and tight but still squeaking, it’s thirsty for some lubricant. But not all lubricants are created equal! It's crucial to use the right type for your slides.
First, identify what kind of slides you have:
How to Lubricate Wooden Slides: Rub a thin, even layer of paste wax, a block of paraffin wax, or even just an old candle along the wooden runners on both the drawer and the cabinet. Work it in with a cloth and wipe away any excess.
How to Lubricate Metal Roller or Ball-Bearing Slides: For these, you'll want to use a silicone-based lubricant spray. Avoid oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they can attract dust and gum up the mechanism over time.
If you've cleaned, tightened, and lubricated your drawer and it’s still making noise or not functioning properly, you may have a more serious issue. The drawer slides themselves could be bent, damaged, or severely worn out. While replacing drawer slides is a doable DIY project, it requires precise measurements and can be tricky to get right.
If you suspect the slides are damaged, it might be time to call in a professional. A handyman can typically replace a set of drawer slides in under an hour. According to Forbes, the national average cost for a handyman is between $60 to $125 per hour, making it a reasonably affordable repair that guarantees a perfect result.
A noisy drawer is a fixable problem. By following these simple diagnostic and repair steps, you can restore smooth, silent function to your furniture and cabinets. Taking a few minutes to clean and maintain your drawers not only eliminates annoying sounds but also extends the life of your hardware.
Ready to take control of your home maintenance? Download the Casa app today! Casa provides easy-to-follow guides for hundreds of DIY home repairs and connects you with a network of vetted, trusted professionals for the jobs you'd rather leave to an expert. Make homeownership simpler with Casa at your fingertips.
