How To Take Out Bathroom Vanity Drawers

How to Take Out Bathroom Vanity Drawers

Bathroom vanity drawers are often used to store toiletries, towels, and other bathroom essentials. When you need to clean the drawers or access the plumbing underneath, you may need to remove them. Removing bathroom vanity drawers is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with a few simple tools and techniques.

Examine the Drawers and Hardware

Before starting the removal process, it's important to understand how the drawers are attached to the vanity. Look at the drawer fronts and sides for any visible screws or hardware. Pay attention to the type of drawer slides:

**Full-extension slides:** These slides allow the drawer to fully extend out of the vanity, making access to the back easier. They typically have two or three screws securing the drawer to the slide.
**Partial-extension slides:** These slides only allow the drawer to partially extend, making access to the back more difficult. They usually have one or two screws securing the drawer to the slide.
**Undermount slides:** These slides are hidden underneath the drawer and may require removing the drawer front or side to access the screws.

Identifying the type of slides and hardware will help you determine the best method for removing the drawers.

Remove the Drawer

With the drawer hardware identified, you can begin the removal process:

**Open the drawer fully:** If the drawer has full-extension slides, pull the drawer out completely. If it has partial-extension slides, pull the drawer as far out as it will go.
**Locate the screws:** Look for screws securing the drawer to the slides at the sides or bottom of the drawer.
**Remove the screws:** Carefully remove the screws using a screwdriver that matches the screw size and head.
**Remove the drawer:** Gently pull the drawer out of the vanity. Be careful not to scratch or damage the vanity or the drawer.

Removing Stubborn Drawers

Some drawers may be stuck or difficult to remove due to:

**Excess weight:** Heavy objects inside the drawer can make it difficult to slide out.
**Dust and debris:** Accumulated dust and debris can obstruct the drawer slides.
**Worn-out slides:** Old or worn-out slides may not function properly.

If a drawer is stuck, try the following:

**Remove the drawer contents:** Empty the drawer to reduce the weight and allow it to move more freely.
**Clean the slides:** Wipe the drawer slides and tracks with a damp cloth to remove any debris.
**Lubricate the slides:** Apply a light lubricant, such as silicone spray, to the drawer slides to reduce friction and make the drawer glide more smoothly.
**Check for obstructions:** Look for any objects that might be blocking the drawer, such as nails or screws.
**Try gently tapping the drawer:** If the drawer is still stuck, use a rubber mallet or a wooden block to gently tap on the drawer, encouraging it to move.

If the drawer remains stubbornly stuck, consult a professional for assistance.

Reinstalling the Drawer

Once you have completed your work, you can reinstall the drawer:

**Clean the slides:** Wipe the drawer slides and tracks with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
**Align the drawer:** Align the drawer with the slides and push it gently back into the vanity.
**Secure the screws:** Replace the screws that secure the drawer to the slides. Make sure the screws are securely tightened.
**Test the drawer:** Open and close the drawer several times to ensure it slides smoothly and stays securely in place.

If you experience any difficulty while reinstalling the drawer, refer to the original installation instructions or consult a professional for guidance.