Soft-Close Drawers Gone Wrong? Here’s the Easy Fix

Soft close drawers, a hallmark of modern cabinetry, offer a seamless and effortless closing experience. However, there might come a time when removing these drawers becomes necessary, whether for repairs, replacement, or a change in design. This blog post delves into the intricacies of soft close drawer removal, providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this task.

Understanding Soft Close Mechanisms

The secret behind soft close drawers lies in their ingenious mechanisms. Typically, two types of mechanisms are employed:

1. Hydraulic Dampers: These devices utilize hydraulic fluid to slow down the closing motion, creating a smooth and controlled closure.
2. Gas Springs: Gas springs, on the other hand, employ compressed gas to provide resistance against the drawer’s closing force, achieving the same result as hydraulic dampers.

Can Soft Close Drawers Be Removed?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes. However, the removal process varies depending on the specific mechanism used.

Removing Drawers with Hydraulic Dampers

1. Disconnect the Damper: Locate the damper, usually attached to the drawer side or the cabinet frame. Disconnect it by pressing down on the release tab or unhooking it from its mounting point.
2. Slide Out the Drawer: Once the damper is disconnected, carefully slide out the drawer from the cabinet.

Removing Drawers with Gas Springs

1. Identify the Gas Spring: Gas springs are typically mounted on the drawer’s underside.
2. Release the Lock: Locate the lock mechanism on the gas spring and release it by pressing or pulling on the designated release point.
3. Pull Out the Drawer: With the gas spring disengaged, slowly pull out the drawer.

Cautionary Measures

• Safety First: Always disconnect the drawer from the soft close mechanism before attempting to remove it.
• Handle with Care: Soft close mechanisms can be delicate, so handle them gently to avoid damage.
• Seek Professional Help: If you encounter any difficulties or have concerns, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a professional cabinetmaker or handyman.

Reinstalling Soft Close Drawers

Once the drawers are removed, you can proceed with any necessary repairs or replacements. To reinstall the drawers, simply reverse the removal steps:

• Attach the Soft Close Mechanism: Reconnect the damper or gas spring to the drawer and cabinet.
• Insert the Drawer: Carefully slide the drawer back into the cabinet.
• Test the Mechanism: Ensure that the soft close mechanism is functioning correctly by opening and closing the drawer several times.

When to Remove Soft Close Drawers

There are several scenarios where removing soft close drawers might be necessary:

• Drawer Repairs: If a drawer gets damaged or requires maintenance, removing it is essential for access to the drawer’s interior.
• Drawer Replacement: When replacing a damaged or outdated drawer, you’ll need to remove the existing drawer to install the new one.
• Design Modifications: If you’re changing the cabinet’s design or layout, removing soft close drawers may be necessary to accommodate new hardware or drawer configurations.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I remove soft close drawers without damaging them?

A: Yes, it’s possible to remove soft close drawers without damaging them by following the steps outlined above and exercising caution.

Q: What if I don’t have the tools to remove soft close drawers?

A: If you don’t have the necessary tools or feel uncomfortable performing the removal yourself, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance.

Q: Can I replace a soft close drawer with a regular drawer?

A: Yes, you can replace a soft close drawer with a regular drawer, but you may need to make modifications to the cabinet or purchase a drawer that’s compatible with your cabinet’s dimensions.