Drawers are an essential piece of storage in our home, providing a hidden and accessible place for our personal items.

The performance of a drawer is largely determined by its guide, the mechanism that allows its smooth and effortless movement.

In this post, we’ll give you a detailed look at drawer slides, from the different types to how to select and maintain them correctly.

Drawer guides: types

Roller Guides

The roller guides They are one of the most common types of drawer slides. They are made up of two parts: a fixed track attached to the cabinet and a roller or wheel that is attached to the drawer.

These types of guides are easy to install and are usually an economical option. However, they are not as durable as other types and may not support as much weight.

Ball Guides

The ball guides They are telescopic guides that use steel balls in a channel to allow movement of the drawer. They are durable, smooth and quiet, and can support a large amount of weight, making them suitable for heavy, frequently used drawers.

Full Extension Guides

The full extension guides They extend completely out of the cabinet, allowing access to the entire drawer. These guides are ideal for deep drawers where full access to contents is needed.

Partial Extension Guides

The partial extension guides They only allow the drawer to be opened partially, which can be useful in certain cases, such as in tight spaces.

Drawer guides: how to choose them

When it comes to choosing slides for your drawers, there are several factors to consider:

Drawer Weight

The drawer weight It is a crucial factor to consider. If you plan to store heavy items, you should opt for ball or full extension slides as they can support more weight.

Ease of Installation

If you are a handyman, roller guides could be a good option due to their ease of installation. However, if you prefer a hassle-free installation, it might be worth hiring a professional or choosing guides with simpler mounting systems.

Cost

The cost It can also be a determining factor. Roller guides are typically the most economical, while ball and full extension guides can be more expensive due to their superior durability and performance.

Accessibility

If you need to access all the contents of your drawers with ease, the full extension guides They are the best option.

Drawer guides: maintenance

Proper maintenance of drawer slides is essential to ensure their optimal function and lifespan. Here are some tips to keep your guides in good condition:

Regular Cleaning

The drawer guides They should be cleaned regularly to remove dust and debris that may accumulate in the channels and hinder the smooth movement of the drawer. You can use a dry cloth for this or a soft-bristled brush for harder-to-reach corners.

Lubrication

Drawer slides, especially ball slides, may need lubrication from time to time to keep them moving smoothly. Make sure you use a suitable lubricant and apply it sparingly to prevent dirt from accumulating.

Regular Inspection

It is important to carry out regular inspections of your drawer slides to ensure there are no loose or worn parts that could affect their performance. If you discover any problems, it is best to address them immediately to avoid further damage.

Stores where you can find drawer guides

Conclusion

Drawer slides may seem like a minor component in the design of a piece of furniture, but their importance in functionality and comfort of use is enormous.

Choosing the right guides and maintaining them properly can make a difference in the life of your furniture and your daily usage experience.

We hope this guide helps you make an informed decision about which drawer slides are best for you and how to properly care for them.