How to Repair a Wooden Kitchen Drawer

Drawer That Doesn't Slide

• 1

  Remove the contents of the wooden kitchen drawer and put them aside. Pull the drawer all the way out and lift its front so it comes off the track.

• 2

  Turn the drawer over and locate the glide, the tiny piece of notched plastic that keeps it on its track, and examine its condition. Also inspect the guides inside the cabinet. Using a screwdriver, tighten the glides if they are in good condition but loose. Alternatively, align the glides with pliers if they are in good condition but misaligned.

• 3

  Unscrew old damaged glides from the drawer and cabinet and replace them. Place the replacement glide over the spots on the base of the drawer and cabinet, matching the screw holes on the wood surface. Make sure the replacement glides are identical to the old ones.

• 4

  Tighten the screws to attach the glides to the drawer and cabinet. Avoid tightening the screws too tight as you could crack the wood. Slide the drawer onto the track.

Sagging Drawer

• 5

  Remove the drawer and place it upside down on a flat surface. Press the sagging wooden or plywood base back into the grooves along the front, back and sides of the drawer.

• 6

  Measure the length and width of the base and cut a piece of wood to the same measurements. The reinforcement board will fit under the base of the sagging drawer and support it. Measure the depth of the clearance for the drawer and use a wood board in the same depth so it fits snugly below.

• 7

  Apply glue over the base of the drawer and place the replacement base over it. Press the board for 20 to 30 seconds to help the glue set and form a secure bond.

• 8

  Insert 1-inch brads through the ends of the wood board into the ends of the drawer using a brad nailer.