How to Remove Howdens Drawers: The Ultimate Guide for DIYers

Howdens drawers are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability and sleek design. However, there may come a time when you need to remove them for maintenance or replacement. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a novice homeowner, this detailed guide will provide you with the step-by-step instructions you need to remove Howdens drawers safely and efficiently.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Screwdriver (Phillips head)
• Pliers
• Hammer (optional)
• Safety glasses

Safety Precautions

It’s crucial to wear safety glasses when working with tools. If you’re removing drawers from a cabinet mounted high above the ground, use a step stool or ladder for stability.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

1. Remove the Drawer Front

• Open the drawer fully.
• Locate the screws at the sides of the drawer front that attach it to the drawer box.
• Use a screwdriver to remove these screws.
• Carefully lift the drawer front straight up to detach it.

2. Disconnect the Drawer Slides

• Inside the cabinet, locate the drawer slides attached to the drawer box.
• There will be two slides, one on each side.
• Press the release levers or buttons on the slides to disconnect them from the drawer box.

3. Remove the Drawer Box

• Lift the drawer box straight up to remove it from the cabinet.
• If the drawer is heavy or stuck, gently tap it with a hammer to loosen it.

4. Remove the Drawer Runners (Optional)

• If you need to remove the drawer runners from the cabinet, locate the screws that attach them.
• Use a screwdriver to remove these screws.
• Carefully pull the drawer runners out of the cabinet.

Reinstallation

To reinstall the drawers, simply follow the steps in reverse order:

• Insert the drawer runners into the cabinet and secure them with screws.
• Slide the drawer box onto the drawer runners.
• Connect the drawer slides to the drawer box by pressing the release levers or buttons.
• Align the drawer front with the drawer box and attach it with screws.

Tips

• If the drawer front is stuck, gently tap it with a rubber mallet or a block of wood to loosen it.
• If the drawer slides are difficult to disconnect, use pliers to squeeze the release levers or buttons.
• Be cautious not to damage the cabinet or the drawers when removing or reinstalling them.

Troubleshooting

1. Drawer Front Won’t Come Off

• Make sure all the screws attaching the drawer front have been removed.
• Check if there are any hidden screws or clips holding the drawer front in place.

2. Drawer Box Won’t Slide Out

• Ensure the drawer slides are properly disconnected.
• Check if there is any debris or obstruction preventing the drawer box from sliding out.

3. Drawer Slides Won’t Disconnect

• Make sure you’re pressing the correct release levers or buttons.
• If the levers or buttons are stuck, use pliers to squeeze them.

Final Note: A Drawer-Removal Success

Removing Howdens drawers is a relatively straightforward task that can be accomplished with the right tools and a bit of patience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and efficiently remove your drawers for maintenance, replacement, or any other necessary purpose.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I remove Howdens drawers without removing the cabinet doors?

Yes, it is possible to remove Howdens drawers without removing the cabinet doors. However, it may be more difficult to access the drawer slides and screws if the doors are in the way.

2. Do I need to use a specific type of screwdriver to remove Howdens drawers?

No, you can use a standard Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws attaching the drawer front and drawer box.

3. Is it necessary to wear safety glasses when removing Howdens drawers?

Yes, it is highly recommended to wear safety glasses when working with tools to protect your eyes from flying debris or potential accidents.