How to Install Soft-Close Drawer Slides

If you've ever gotten your fingers stuck in a slamming drawer—or just hate the sound of one—then you'll want to learn this simple design hack: installing soft-close drawer slides. They're affordable, easy to use, and a cinch to install. And they'll bring peace and quiet to your kitchen.

Expect to spend roughly an hour on this project, and make sure you're comfortable using basic DIY tools like a drill, screwdriver, and level. We installed our guides in a kitchen, but they also work well in a bathroom, bedroom, or home office.

What You Need

• Soft-close side-mount drawer glides
• Mounting clips
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Level

Step 1: Remove Drawer and Hardware

Empty the desired drawer and remove it from the cabinet. Unscrew the existing drawer glide hardware from both the drawer and the cabinet.

Step 2: Install Drawer Glides

Set the drawer on its side. Position the new glide flush with the bottom of the drawer, confirming that the small extending part of the glide is at the front of the drawer. Mark placement with a pencil. Screw the glide into place, predrilling holes if desired. Repeat at the rear. Turn the drawer over and repeat on the other side.

Step 3: Install Cabinet Glides

To install the cabinet hardware, pull the glide back on the drawer to release the clip and remove the cabinet portion from the drawer. Attach the mounting clips to each end of this segment.

Step 4: Attach Clips

Attach the face frame clip to the cabinet with a screw and a screwdriver, predrilling holes if desired. Then attach the back mounting clip to the rear of the cabinet box, making sure it's level before screwing it in.

Step 5: Make Needed Adjustments

Measure the distance of the drawer glide at the front and back of the box. Make any necessary adjustments to the screws, then repeat on the other side. Slide the drawer into the glides and confirm that everything aligns. Make any final adjustments, then install the rest of the screws.