If you have ever experienced the annoying sound of wooden table slides squeaking, sticking and not sliding smoothly, then you know the hassle it can be to try to fix.
It might come as a shock that lubrication is needed for furniture pieces like drawers and tables to move easily, but trust us when we say that you don’t want to risk damaging your furniture because of lack of care or maintenance!
Yep, even wood needs some TLC from time to time! In this blog post, we’ll discuss how easy it is to lubricate wooden table slides in order to make them function properly.
Read on for all the info on how to lubricate wooden table slides – from which materials work best (like beeswax and vegetable oil) and tools (such as small sponges) you should use – so you can get started today with your own DIY project at home.
Needed Materials
Given below are the materials required to lubricate wooden table slides, make sure that you have all of them before beginning.
Beeswax:
This is a popular choice for furniture care because it’s easy to use and provides excellent protection against moisture. It also helps maintain wood’s natural oils.
Vegetable Oil:
While not as popular as beeswax, vegetable oil can also be used to lubricate wooden slides. It’s a good option for those who want something a bit less greasy than wax.
Small Sponge:
This is important in order to apply the oil or wax evenly on the surfaces of the table slides.
10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Lubricate Wooden Table Slides
Step 1: Remove the Drawer
It is important to remove the drawer from the table prior to lubricating. To do this, first locate and depress the spring-loaded button located on each side or back of the drawer.
This will release and allow you to pull out the drawer. If your drawer is not equipped with a release button, please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on how to remove it. You can also search online for guidance!
Step 2: Clean the Slide Tracks
Once you have removed the drawer, use a clean cloth and warm water to clean away any dirt or debris that may be trapped in the slide tracks. It is very important to make sure the tracks are completely free of any debris before applying lubricant. But be careful not to get the wooden pieces wet, as they may swell and cause further damage. This is especially true with old furniture.
Step 3: Apply Beeswax or Vegetable Oil
After ensuring that the tracks are clean, you can begin to apply either beeswax or vegetable oil to them. Using a small sponge, lightly rub the wax or oil onto both surfaces of the slide track.
You don’t need to use a lot, just enough to create a thin coating of protection. It’s also important to remember not to apply too much, as this may cause the drawer to stick. BUt, worry not! If this does happen, simply clean the excess with a cloth and try again.
Step 4: Wipe Away Excess Lubricant
After applying the lubricant, use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe away any excess lubricant on both surfaces of the slide track. This will help ensure that it is evenly distributed. Although it may seem like a lot of work, taking the time to make sure everything is right can save you from having to do it all over again. You’ll thank us later.
Step 5: Reinstall the Drawer
Once you have finished lubricating the slide track, it is time to reinstall the drawer. Before doing so, make sure that you align the slides properly with one another. This will ensure that they move smoothly when in use. But don’t worry if the fit is a bit tight, as this is normal. But if it seems like there is too much resistance, then you may want to re-lubricate the slides again.
Step 6: Test the Movement of Slides
Once you have reinstalled the drawer, test out the movement of the slides. If they are still sticking or squeaking, it may be a sign that more lubricant is needed.
In this case, repeat steps 3-5 again to ensure optimal performance. It is also important to note that if you notice any signs of wear or damage on the slides, they should be replaced immediately in order to prevent further issues.
Step 7: Lubricate Both Sides of Drawer Slides
It’s important to remember that the slides should also be lubricated on both sides of the drawer. This will help them move smoothly and reduce the risk of wear and tear. You can use the same materials (beeswax or vegetable oil) and techniques used to lubricate the tracks.
You may also want to consider using a small brush to get into all the nooks and crannies of the drawer slides. It will also help get rid of any dirt or debris that may be trapped.
Step 8: Clean Up After Yourself
Once you have finished lubricating the drawer slides, don’t forget to clean up after yourself! Make sure to use a clean cloth and warm, soapy water to wipe away any excess lubricant on the drawer and slides. It’s also important to double-check that the slides are working properly and that there is no excess oil or wax on the surface of the furniture. You don’t want to attract dirt or dust!
Step 9: Let the Drawer Dry
Once you have finished cleaning up, let the drawer sit and completely dry before putting it back on the table. This will ensure that no moisture remains in the slide tracks which could cause them to stick in the future.
It is important to note that if the drawer slides are metal, you may want to consider using a lubricant specifically designed for metal surfaces. If you do, make sure to read the instructions on the product for proper use.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Slides
That’s it! With these simple steps, you can now enjoy your newly lubricated wooden table slides. The next time you open and close the drawer, they should move smoothly and quietly – no more squeaking or sticking!
Always remember that regular maintenance is key to keeping your furniture in top shape, so make sure to lubricate the slides every few months for optimal performance. And if you ever run into any issues or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help!
Following these steps on how to lubricate wooden table slides should help you lubricate your wooden table slides correctly so that they continue to perform smoothly and last longer. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about caring for your furniture, please contact us at [insert company email] for additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Often Should I Lubricate My Wooden Table Slides?
A: It is recommended that you lubricate your wooden table slides every 6 months to ensure optimal performance and longevity. However, if you experience excessive squeaking or sticking, it may be necessary to lubricate the slides more often.
Q: What is the Best Lubricant for Wooden Table Slides?
A: Beeswax and vegetable oil are generally considered to be the best lubricants for wooden table slides as they provide excellent protection against moisture while also helping maintain wood’s natural oils. However, other types of lubricants may also be used depending on your preference.
Q: Is it Necessary to Remove the Drawer Before Lubricating?
A: Yes, it is necessary to remove the drawer prior to lubricating in order to ensure that both sides of the slide tracks are properly lubricated and free of debris. Additionally, this will also help prevent any excess lubricant from getting onto the drawer itself.
Q: Are There Any Safety Tips to Keep in Mind When Lubricating Wooden Table Slides?
A: Yes, it is important to keep safety in mind when handling lubricants such as beeswax and vegetable oil. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area and avoid contact with your eyes and skin. Additionally, it is also recommended to wear gloves to prevent any irritation or discomfort.
Conclusion
The ability to lubricate your own wooden table slides can be a great way to save money and time. Following the tips on how to lubricate wooden table slides outlined in this article carefully can help ensure that the job gets done quickly and efficiently.
But it is important to remember that lubricating wood slides may require vibration and may also require using an additional product such as furniture oil or an all-purpose lubricant—it depends on the kind of slide used.
Consider researching different methods when caring for wooden furniture pieces, especially if your slides are sticking. Ultimately, with the appropriate guidance and products, you are sure to fix those tricky wooden table slides!
