Adding soft close to drawers can be a game-changer for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike. When it comes to learning how to add soft close to drawers, it’s essential to break down the process into manageable steps. For instance, installing soft close drawer slides involves removing the drawer and hardware, installing drawer glides and cabinet glides. Alternatively, retrofitting soft close to almost any drawer requires obtaining the Blumotion mechanism and extracting the spring and latch mechanism from the rail.
Are Soft Close Drawer Slides Compatible with All Types of Drawer Slides, or Are There Specific Requirements?
When it comes to soft close drawer slides, there are specific requirements to ensure compatibility with other types of drawer slides. Soft close drawer slides are designed to provide a gentle, quiet, and smooth closing motion, but they don’t work with every type of drawer system.
- 227mm and above : Soft close drawer slides typically require a min. of 227mm (9 inches) of travel to function properly. If your drawer slide has a shorter travel length, it might not work with soft close slides.
- Channel width : Soft close slides usually come in standard widths: 45mm, 60mm, and 85mm. Make sure your drawer slide’s channel width matches one of these standards.
- Mounting style : Soft close slides often require a specific mounting style, such as undermount, side-mount, or top-mount. Ensure your drawer slide’s mounting type is compatible with the soft close slide.
- Weight capacity : Soft close slides have a weight capacity limit, usually around 10-20 kg (22-44 lbs). Verify your drawer’s weight doesn’t exceed this limit.
- Drawer size and shape : Soft close slides are designed for standard drawer sizes and shapes. If your drawer is oversized or irregularly shaped, you might need to consider custom-made soft close slides or other alternatives.
To ensure compatibility, check your drawer slide’s specifications and compare them to the requirements outlined above. If you’re still unsure, consult with a manufacturer or a professional for guidance. With the right combination of soft close slides and drawer slides, you’ll enjoy a smooth and quiet drawer-opening experience.
Can You Explain the Step-by-step Process of Retrofitting Soft Close to Drawers?
Upgrading your drawers with soft close mechanisms can improve their functionality and enhance the user experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you retrofit soft close to your drawers:
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Soft close drawer slides
- Drawer mounting hardware
- Drill and drill bits
- Screws and screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Utility knife or file
Step 1: Remove the Drawer
Take out the drawer from the cabinet or furniture by removing any screws or clips that hold it in place. Set the drawer aside and prepare the mounting surface.
Step 2: Measure and Mark the Mounting Surface
Measure the distance between the mounting screw holes on the soft close slides and mark the surface accordingly. Make sure to align the marks with the screw holes.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes
Drill pilot holes into the marked surface to avoid damaging the surrounding material. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws.
Step 4: Install the Soft Close Slides
Place the soft close slides onto the mounting surface, ensuring they align with the marks made earlier. Screw the slides into place using the mounting hardware.
Step 5: Reassemble the Drawer
Reattach the drawer to the cabinet or furniture using the original screws or clips. Make sure the soft close slides are securely attached and functioning properly.
Step 6: Test the Soft Close Mechanism
Open and close the drawer several times to ensure the soft close mechanism is working as intended. Adjust if necessary.
How Do I Measure My Drawer Correctly to Ensure a Proper Soft Close Installation?
Before installing soft close hardware on your drawer, it’s essential to measure it accurately to ensure a proper fit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your drawer correctly:
- Measure the width of your drawer, starting from the inside surface of one hinge to the other. Record this measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Measure the height of your drawer, from the top of the drawer opening to the bottom. Record this measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Measure the depth of your drawer, from the back of the drawer to the front. Record this measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Measure the drawer’s center-to-center dimension of the hinge holes. This measurement is crucial for aligning the soft close hardware with the drawer’s hinges.
- Record the depth and position of the drawer’s existing hardware, if any, such as the drawer slides or stoppers.
With these measurements, you’re ready to select the right soft close hardware for your drawer. When shopping, look for products with adjustable mounting options to ensure a secure fit.
Tips for Accurate Measurement
- Use a tape measure or a ruler to take accurate measurements.
- Record each measurement separately to avoid mix-ups.
- If you’re measuring an existing drawer with hardware, take note of any obstructions or obstacles that may affect the installation.
- Consider consulting the manufacturer’s instructions for specific measurement requirements or recommendations.
What Are the Advantages of Installing Soft Close Drawer Slides?
If you’re in the market for new drawer slides, you’re probably wondering what all the fuss is about. Soft close drawer slides are a relatively recent innovation, but they’ve quickly become a staple in many modern kitchens. So, what’s the advantage of installing these innovative drawer slides?
Reduced Clutter
Soft close drawer slides work by slowing down the closing motion, allowing you to deposit your utensils, plates, or cutlery without the noise and hassle of clattering containers. This feature is especially useful in open-plan kitchens or shared living spaces where every little noise can be perceived as a disturbance.
Increased Safety
Soft close drawer slides are designed with safety in mind. By slowing down the closing motion, you’re less likely to trap your fingers or hands between the drawer and the cabinet. This is particularly important for households with children or pets.
Improved Aesthetics
Soft close drawer slides come with a sleek and modern design that complements any kitchen style. They’re typically available in a range of finishes, from matte to glossy, allowing you to match your drawer slides to your cabinetry.
Extended Durability
Soft close drawer slides are built with durability in mind. They’re designed to withstand regular use and can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. With proper maintenance, they can last for years to come.
+ Reduced noise and clutter + Increased safety + Improved aesthetics + Extended durability
What Type of Hardware Do I Need to Remove to Install Soft Close Drawer Slides?
Installing soft close drawer slides can give your furniture a touch of elegance and make it more functional. But before you start, it’s essential to understand what type of hardware you’ll need to remove. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps.
Prepare Your Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:
- A screwdriver (preferably a precision screwdriver)
- A wrench or pliers
- A ruler or measuring tape
- A pencil or marker
Identify the Hardware
To determine what hardware to remove, you need to identify the type of drawer slide you’re working with. Common types of drawer slides include:
- Ball-bearing drawer slides
- Roller-bearing drawer slides
- Soft-close drawer slides
- Draw slides with drawers
Remove the Hardware
Once you’ve identified the type of drawer slide, follow these general steps to remove the necessary hardware:
- Identify the screws or clips holding the drawer slide in place
- Remove the screws or clips using your screwdriver or wrench
- Gently pull the drawer slide out from the drawer
- Remove any additional hardware, such as brackets or mounts, that may be attached to the drawer slide
- Set the hardware aside for later use or disposal
Installation Tips
When installing your new soft close drawer slides, be sure to:
- Align the slides properly with the drawer
- Tighten all screws or clips securely
- Test the drawer to ensure it opens and closes smoothly
By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully install your soft close drawer slides and enjoy the benefits of a smooth, quiet, and elegant drawer operation.
