How to Fit Drawer Runners

Before You Begin The Installation

It is important to note that each installation will differ slightly due to the product required for the job and the manufacturer’s guidelines. In this article, we have compiled a clear yet generalised rundown for you. To get started, grab a ruler, a pencil, and a spirit level. Top Tip: If the cabinet component and drawer slider are connected upon arrival, disconnect the two by using the release lever as you will be installing them separately.

How To Install Drawer Runners

Start by making a mark from a specified distance (begin measuring at the bottom of the drawer) according to the instructions you received with your slider. This mark will indicate where you will be securing your runner to the drawer. Ensure that the piece is level with your spirit level and repeat on both sides. Now, screw the drawer runner to the drawer using the screws provided. Before moving on, take the drawer itself and physically hold it in place to where you would like it to remain once screwed in. Once the drawer has been positioned correctly, mark the bottom of the drawer on the front of the cabinet. Top Tip: Measure twice, drill once. Place cabinet slide into the drawer slide. We have already screwed the drawer slide in place in the steps above and the cabinet slide is not connected at this point. Once in place, measure the distance between the bottom of the drawer and the screw hole on the cabinet component. This will be referred to as ‘Measurement X’. From the bottom of the mark you have just made on the front of the cabinet, measure up according to ‘Measurement X’ and mark the cabinet (this is ‘Mark Y’). To ensure the drawers sit flush with the cabinet, mark the inside of the cabinet according to the manufacturer’s guidelines (this will likely only be a few millimetres). We will call this ‘Mark Z’. Using a spirit level, place the cabinet member horizontally along ‘Mark Y’, and behind ‘Mark Z’. Finally, secure the cabinet member to cabinet and slide them together.

Selecting the Right Runners for Drawers

With a variety of drawer runners available on the market, it may be hard to decide which option is best for your project. We are going to break down a few of our most popular options to help you find out which solution works for you or your client.

Push To Open Drawer Runners: When you use a push to open the drawer, a spring-loaded piston will gently pop the drawer open. This option makes​​​​​​​ minimal sound and is great in the kitchen and office.

Soft Closing Drawer Runners: For homes with little ones, soft closing drawers may be the perfect solution for you. Keeping their hands safe and the environment peaceful.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Self Closing Drawer Runners: Self closing drawers will pull the drawer shut with minimal effort from you. Sounds ideal? Unlike the soft closing drawer which glides into place, these have a mechanism that pulls them into place.

Experts In Drawer Runners

Now that you know how to put drawer runners on, it’s time to acquire the product! At Häfele, we have over 40 years of experience. Our range includes a variety of different options which have been expertly manufactured. Browse our drawer runners today to find the right solution for your next project.