Some drawers simply don’t slide in and out as easily as they should. This could be due to wear and tear, a lack of lubrication, or — if you believe in mythology — tiny little elves pulling back against you. Whatever the case, you’re left either tugging at the drawer to get it open or putting…
Bar of Soap
Start by removing the sticky drawer and placing it on a flat surface with the bottom side facing up. Then, take a bar of basic, fragrance-free soap such as Dial or Dove. Rub it along the bottom edges of the drawer and the sliding mechanism itself. The soap should lubricate any problem areas, reducing friction and allowing the drawer to slide more smoothly. Once finished, return the drawer to its original spot; you should immediately notice it sliding easier than before.
Paraffin or Beeswax Candle
The wax from a candle also makes for an effective lubricant. Remove the drawer, and then grab an unscented paraffin or beeswax candle (a taper candle works well) to rub along its edges and tracks. This technique should help smooth out any potential problem areas, allowing the drawer to glide in and out with ease.
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Wax Paper
If you’re worried about applying too much soap or wax, wax paper might be the perfect solution. Your standard wax paper found in any kitchen has a thin coating that can be transferred onto wood. Grab a piece of wax paper, fold it into a square, and then rub it along the wooden edges like you would sandpaper. Just be extra cautious with your hands to avoid getting any splinters.
In all of these cases, it takes just a little bit of lubrication to help those old drawers start sliding in and out as if they were new. Be careful not to leave any clumps of soap or wax behind, as that could potentially cause the drawer to jam once the substance hardens.
