Drawer Runners

How to choose the right drawer runners Drawer runners, also called drawer slides, determine how a drawer opens, closes and carries its load. The right choice depends on the opening mechanism, runner length, available cabinet depth and how the drawer has been built. Our range is led by Decor & Decor own-brand undermount runners, with… Read more →

How to choose the right drawer runners

Drawer runners, also called drawer slides, determine how a drawer opens, closes and carries its load. The right choice depends on the opening mechanism, runner length, available cabinet depth and how the drawer has been built. Our range is led by Decor & Decor own-brand undermount runners, with soft-close, push-to-open and combined mechanisms in practical sizes for new furniture and replacement projects. Samet products remain available as a secondary option for customers who need those specific systems.

Our own-brand runners are concealed beneath the drawer rather than fixed visibly to its sides. Each current model provides full extension, a verified 35kg load capacity and 3D adjustment. This makes the range suitable for everyday kitchen storage, bedroom and wardrobe drawers, vanity units, office furniture and other indoor cabinetry, provided the dimensions and construction match the individual product specification.

Choose by opening and closing mechanism

• Soft-close drawer runners: a good choice for frequently used kitchen, bedroom and wardrobe drawers. The mechanism controls the final part of the closing movement and helps prevent slamming.
• Push-to-open drawer runners: designed for handleless furniture. Pressing the drawer front activates the opening action, so the front can remain visually clean.
• Push-to-open and soft-close runners: combine handleless opening with controlled closing. Our current combined own-brand models are available from 300mm to 600mm.
• Full-extension drawer slides: allow the drawer to travel out far enough to improve access to items stored at the back. Full extension is included across the current own-brand range.

Why choose undermount drawer runners?

Undermount runners sit beneath the drawer, keeping the moving hardware out of sight when the drawer is open. This gives fitted kitchens and furniture a cleaner appearance than visible side-mounted slides. The current own-brand models use galvanised steel and provide height, depth and lateral adjustment, helping the installer align the drawer front after the runners are fixed.

Undermount and side-mount systems are not automatically interchangeable. They use different fixing positions and clearance requirements, and some conversions require changes to the drawer box. If you are replacing an existing set, identify its mounting type before ordering rather than assuming that any runner of the same nominal length will fit.

Drawer runner size guide

Runner size is not the only measurement that matters. The drawer side length, internal cabinet depth, board thickness and fixing layout must also suit the selected product. The table below reflects the current own-brand product specifications. Always check the exact product page before drilling, because furniture construction and fixing positions vary.

The current own-brand product specifications allow drawer boards up to 19mm thick and list the supplied fixings on each product page. Do not rely on the nominal size alone: confirm the available internal cabinet depth and make sure the drawer box matches the stated mounting requirements.

How to measure for replacement drawer slides

1. Identify the mounting type. Check whether the existing runners are undermount, side-mount or part of a complete drawer-box system.
2. Remove the drawer and measure the existing runner. Measure the metal runner from end to end rather than estimating from the cabinet exterior.
3. Measure the drawer and cabinet. Record the drawer side length, board thickness and clear internal cabinet depth. Check for hinges, pipes or cabinet rails that could obstruct the mechanism.
4. Compare the exact specification. Match the mechanism, size, capacity, mounting clearance and fixing method shown on the product page.
5. Fit both sides level and parallel. Small alignment errors can cause binding or prevent the soft-close or push-to-open mechanism from engaging correctly.

Replacement compatibility is specific to the drawer construction. A worn undermount pair can often be replaced with a matching system, but changing from side-mounted slides to concealed undermount runners may require a different drawer width, base position or fixing arrangement.

Drawer runners for kitchens, bedrooms and furniture

Kitchen drawer runners benefit from full extension and soft close because drawers are opened frequently and often hold cookware, utensils or food storage. Choose a length that matches the cabinet and drawer construction, then stay within the stated 35kg capacity for the own-brand models.

For bedroom and wardrobe drawers, soft close provides controlled, quieter closing. Push-to-open is useful where a handleless front is part of the design. In offices and fitted furniture, full extension makes files and stored items at the back of the drawer easier to reach. Vanity units can also use concealed runners where the cabinet is indoors and the dimensions are suitable.

Installation and maintenance

Use the instructions and dimensions supplied for the selected model. Mark both cabinet sides from the same reference point, check the runners with a level and test the drawer before tightening every fixing. The current own-brand listings specify runners and fixings, with individual product pages giving the relevant component details. If you are altering the drawer box or changing mounting type, use an experienced cabinetmaker or fitter.

For routine care, remove dust and debris with a dry cloth and check that accessible fixings remain secure. Avoid forcing an overloaded or misaligned drawer. Do not apply oil or lubricant unless the product instructions recommend it, as the wrong product can attract dirt or interfere with the closing mechanism.

More help with measuring and fitting

For a fuller explanation of runner types, replacement checks and fitting preparation, read our drawer runner measuring and installation guide. When you are ready to order, use the mechanism and size filters above, then confirm every dimension on the chosen product page.

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