Clever tips to fix those sticky drawers and cupboards

Opening sticky drawers and cupboard doors can be very frustrating. Especially when you’re in a hurry of if it’s a drawer in a common area which you need to have access to daily. Sticky drawers can also be dangerous. Imagine trying to force a drawer close and then getting your finger in the way. Ouch! If you’ve had enough and just want your drawers to glide easily and cupboard doors open and shut better, try these tips:

Soap it up

All you need is basic soap, the ones without moisturisers or oils. Simply soap the wood where the drawers get stuck, as well as slides and bottom side rails. This solution works very well most of the time. In the kitchen and bathrooms, however, where there is more moisture, the soap solution will last for a very short period of time. However, this method works for the doors and windows all across the house.

Use a candle

Regular paraffin or beeswax candles can also help with sticky drawers. All you need to do is just rub it against all the areas of the drawer where there’s friction when you open and close it, including on the tracks and around the outside edges. You can use a long votive candle, but if all you’ve got is a tea light, you can take it out of the little metal cup and use it the same way.

Get some wax paper

Although wax paper is most commonly associated with food preparation, it’s actually very useful for fixing sticky drawers. That’s because wax paper comes coated in paraffin, which will leave a thin layer of wax on wood. Take some wax paper and fold it in half a few times before using it, otherwise it’s too easy to tear. Use the same method you would with candles: Rub it against all the areas of the drawer where there’s friction when you open and close it, including on the tracks and around the outside edges. Easy!

Have you tried any of these tips?