Full Guide to Choose the Right Push to Open Drawer Slides

Preamble: Understanding Push to Open Drawer Slides

Push to open drawer slides are a specialized type of hardware, designed to offer a seamless, hardware-free look to your cabinets. They operate through a simple mechanism: a gentle push on the drawer front activates the springs, which slide the drawer out. Unlike soft-close slides, these slides are self-closing, holding themselves shut but not closing in a dampened manner.

The push to open drawer slides are an excellent choice for hands-free operations and maintaining a clean, minimalistic look in your interior design. They are also quite similar in design and function to side mount or undermount drawer slides.

Comparing Different Types of Push to Open Drawer Slides: Which is Right for You?

There are several types of push to open drawer slides available in the market, and your choice should depend on your specific requirements and preferences. Some of the notable options include:

1. Sidemount Push to Open Drawer Slides: These are the most popular type of drawer slides and are known for their durability and weight-bearing capacity. They are also more economical than other types, making them a great choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
2. Undermount Push to Open Drawer Slides: These are a premium choice for those who prefer a sleek, invisible drawer design. These slides are the smoothest on the market, but they are also the priciest.
3. Soft Close Push to Open Drawer Slides: These are a hybrid of soft close and push to open slides, offering a quiet, easy-to-open drawer mechanism.

The Benefits of Investing in High-Quality Push to Open Drawer Slides

Investing in high-quality push to open drawer slides offers several benefits:

1. Ease of Use: The push to open mechanism is easy to use, requiring only a gentle push to open the drawer.
2. Clean Design: With no visible hardware, these drawer slides offer a clean, modern look to your cabinets.
3. Durability: High-quality drawer slides are built to last, with many capable of supporting heavy weights.
4. Versatility: These drawer slides are available in various sizes and can be used in various applications, from kitchen cabinets to office furniture.

Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing Push to Open Drawer Slides

When choosing push to open drawer slides, consider the following factors:

1. Weight Capacity: Ensure the slides can support the weight of the drawer and its contents.
2. Slide Lengths: Consider the depth of your cabinets and choose slide lengths accordingly.
3. Side Clearance: The amount of space you have on the sides of your drawer will determine the type of slide you can use.
4. Drawer Construction: The construction of your drawer may also affect the type of slide you can use.
5. Maximum Drawer Width: Check the manufacturer’s specifications for maximum drawer width.
6. Certification: Look for slides that have been certified by reputable bodies like BHMA or AWI.

Tips for Matching Push to Open Drawer Slides with Your Cabinet Style

1. Modern cabinets: The clean, minimalistic design of push to open drawer slides complements modern cabinet styles.
2. Traditional cabinets: For traditional cabinets, consider using slides that have a classic finish to blend in with the cabinet design.
3. Rustic cabinets: Rustic cabinets often feature robust, heavy drawers. Choose slides that can support the weight of these drawers.
4. Industrial style cabinets: For industrial-style cabinets, consider slides with a metallic finish to match the industrial aesthetic.

Safety Considerations When Using Push to Open Drawer Slides

While push to open drawer slides are generally safe to use, certain precautions should be taken:

1. Drawer Weight: Overloading the drawer can cause the slides to malfunction, potentially causing injury.
2. Child Safety: While the push to open mechanism can prevent children from easily opening drawers, it’s essential to secure heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tipping.
3. Proper Installation: Improper installation can cause the drawer to fall out or not close properly, posing a risk. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions or hire a professional.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Push to Open Drawer Slides

1. Layout: Determine the location of the drawer slide on the cabinet side.
2. Install the Cabinet-side Slide: Using a drawer slide jig, install the cabinet-side drawer slide.
3. Set the Drawer Height: Insert the drawer into the opening to set the height. Mark the location of the bottom of the drawer front.
4. Install the Drawer-side Slide: Find the distance from the bottom of the 3rd rail to the reference line and install the drawer-side cabinet rail on both sides accordingly.
5. Install the Drawer: Install the drawer and make minor adjustments as necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Push to Open Drawer Slides

1. Drawer Not Closing Properly: This could be due to an obstruction, a misaligned slide, or a broken mechanism. Check for obstructions, realign the slide, or replace the mechanism if necessary.
2. Drawer Not Opening with a Push: This could be due to a weak or broken spring. Check the spring and replace it if necessary.
3. Drawer Sliding Out on Its Own: This could be due to an imbalance in the drawer or the cabinet. Check for any imbalance and correct it.

How to Properly Maintain and Care for Push to Open Drawer Slides

1. Clean Regularly: Dust and debris can affect the slide’s operation. Clean the slides regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
2. Lubricate Occasionally: Some manufacturers recommend lubricating the slides occasionally for smooth operation. Check the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Avoid Overloading: Overloading the drawer can damage the slides. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s weight capacity recommendations.
4. Check Regularly: Regularly check the slides for any signs of wear or damage and replace parts as necessary.

FAQ

How do push to open drawer slides work?

Push to open drawer slides work by using a spring-loaded mechanism. When the front of the drawer is pushed, the springs are activated, sliding the drawer out. This self-closing mechanism keeps the drawer shut until it is pushed again.

What are the different types of push to open drawer slides available?

The three primary types of push to open drawer slides are side mount, undermount, and soft close push to open slides. Each type has its own unique features and benefits.

Are push to open drawer slides durable and long-lasting?

Yes, high-quality push to open drawer slides are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They are often capable of supporting heavy weights and can outlast the wooden drawer itself.

Which brands offer the best push to open drawer slides?

Brands like King, Vadania, and Blum are known for their high-quality push to open drawer slides. They offer a range of options to suit various needs and budgets.

Are push to open drawer slides compatible with all types of cabinet materials?

Yes, push to open drawer slides can be installed on virtually any type of cabinet material, including wood, metal, and plastic.

Are push to open drawer slides child-friendly and safe?

Yes, push to open drawer slides can prevent children from easily opening drawers. However, it’s essential to secure heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tipping.

Conclusion

Push to open drawer slides offer numerous benefits for easy access to drawers and cabinets. These slides use a mechanism that allows users to open and close drawers with a simple push, eliminating the need for handles or knobs. This not only provides a sleek and minimalist aesthetic but also enhances convenience and efficiency in daily use. Choosing the right push to open drawer slides involves evaluating factors such as weight capacity, slide type, installation process, durability, and additional features. By considering these factors, you can select the most suitable slides for their specific needs and enjoy the benefits of easy and convenient access to your drawers and cabinets.