How to Install Drawer Slides for Beginners

Measure the depth of the drawer box to determine the size of drawer slide needed. The slide will need to be the same length as the drawer. Kitchen cabinet slides usually are 22 inches deep; vanity drawers usually are 18 inches deep. Drawer slides can be purchased at any home improvement store.

Mark a line where the drawer slide will be installed. You want to mount the drawer slide as low as possible in the cabinet opening. Continue the line using a level and a pencil to the rear of the cabinet.

Position the cabinet section of the drawer slide on the line. The cabinet sections of the drawer slide will be marked as cabinet left and right. Fasten the appropriate drawer slide by screwing the 5/8-inch screws into the cabinet side using a power drill. The drawer slide already has holes to allow for mounting screws. Typical drawer slides require four screws per slide section. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the cabinet.

Install the drawer sections of the drawer slide onto the drawer box. The drawer slides attach to the bottom of the drawer box. The sections are marked as drawer left and right. Install on the appropriate side of the drawer box. Align the drawer slide with the front of the drawer box and fasten using 5/8-inch screws with a power drill. Use at least four screws to attach each slide member onto the drawer box.

Slide the drawer box into the cabinet opening.