How to Remove Drawers from a Mini Metall File Cabinet

Removing drawers from a mini Metall file cabinet is a straightforward process that can be done easily at home with some simple tools. File cabinets like these are commonly found in both homes and offices for storing documents, files, and other items. Over time, you may want to remove the drawers to clean the tracks, replace broken parts, or simply reorganize your storage system. This guide will walk you through the complete process of removing file cabinet drawers safely and correctly.

Why You May Need to Remove File Cabinet Drawers

There are several reasons why you may need to remove the drawers from a mini Metall file cabinet at some point:

• To clean the slides/tracks – Dust and debris can build up on the slides over time, preventing smooth opening and closing of the drawers. Removing the drawers gives you access to fully clean the tracks.
• To fix broken wheels or rollers – If a drawer isn’t rolling smoothly, the wheel or roller may be broken and need replacing. Taking the drawer out allows you to inspect and replace any damaged parts.
• To replace broken drawer rails – Similar to wheels, if a rail is damaged, removing the drawer is necessary to swap in a new rail. This applies for both the inner rails on the drawer and outer rails on the cabinet.
• To reorganize contents – Taking all the drawers out lets you fully clear out the contents and rearrange as needed for improved organization and utility.
• To add/remove customizations – You may want to add new drawer dividers, handles, locks, etc. Taking the drawers out makes it easier to implement custom upgrades.
• To repaint or refinish – For cosmetic makeovers, it’s best to remove drawers for full, easy access to refinish or repaint the cabinet interior and exterior.

So if you notice sticky or broken drawers, want to thoroughly clean your file cabinet, or plan to reorganize and update it, removing the drawers is likely your first step.

Tools and Materials Needed

Removing most file cabinet drawers is a quick and straightforward DIY project. You likely already have the few simple tools required:

• Flathead screwdriver – Used to remove any small screws or clasps securing the drawer. A medium-size screwdriver with a wider flat tip works best.
• Flashlight – Helpful for seeing all the components and hardware as you work in the back of the cabinet interior.
• Work gloves – Protect your hands from sharp metal edges as you handle drawer components. Leather gloves provide the best grip and protection.
• Replacement hardware – For any worn or damaged wheels, rails, or other parts that may need replacing while the drawers are removed. Having replacements on hand avoids delays in reassembly.
• Tape measure – Allows accurate measurement of drawers and cabinet interior if replacing any components.
• Pliers – Helpful for stubborn clamps or screws that won’t turn loose with just a screwdriver. Needle-nose pliers work especially well in the confined space.

And that’s about it – removing file cabinet drawers is a project easily tackled with some basic hand tools you likely already have available.

How To Remove File Cabinet Drawers

With the right tools in hand, here are the step-by-step instructions for safely removing drawers from a mini Metall file cabinet:

Step 1: Empty Out the Drawers

Before removing them from the cabinet, fully empty all drawers of any contents. This lightens the drawers for easier handling and prevents anything from falling out once they are loose. Stack papers, folders, supplies, etc. temporarily nearby or in another cabinet.

Step 2: Extend the Drawers

Pull each drawer completely out so it is fully extended and open. Most file cabinet drawers need to be extended to access the rear securing hardware. If you have a locking file cabinet, ensure to unlock all drawers first.

Step 3: Locate Securing Clasps

Examine the back of each extended drawer to find any small metal clasps or tabs securing it inside the cabinet. These may be on the drawer frame itself or on the slide rails. The small metal clasp(s) typically need to be disengaged to release the drawer.

Step 4: Release Securing Clasps and Screws

Use a flathead screwdriver (or pliers if needed) to pry open or loosen any clamps, clips, or screws located in the back or sides of the drawer. This typically just requires turning a clasp 90 degrees or unscrewing a small Phillips-head screw.

Step 5: Remove the Drawer

With all clamps and screws released, you can now fully remove the drawer. Carefully slide it the rest of the way out of the cabinet. Be gentle to avoid scratching the cabinet or drawer finish.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Drawers

Return to step 2 and complete the same process to release and remove any remaining drawers from the file cabinet. Stack them neatly nearby.

And that’s it – with all the securing clasps detached, the drawers should slide right out. Taking your time to follow these steps prevents damage to the drawers or cabinet.

Cleaning and Repairing with Drawers Removed

Once the drawers are out, a few maintenance tasks are easier:

• Clean drawer slides – Use a duster or cloth to wipe all dust, dirt and debris from the slide rails inside the cabinet. Apply a lubricant like WD-40 if the slides are sticky.
• Replace broken rails – Snap broken slide rails off the drawers or cabinet base. Snap new rails into place by lining up the ends and pushing until they click.
• Replace wheels/rollers – Remove cracked or seized wheels from the drawer bottoms with pliers. Snap new ones into the pre-drilled holes.
• Sand and repaint – Lightly sand any rough interior paint. Wipe clean. Repaint with a smooth coat of interior enamel paint.
• Install new drawer hardware – Take the opportunity to add drawer divider kits, stylish new handles, locks, or other upgrades.

Completing light repairs and cleaning while the drawers are out saves the hassle later of constantly removing and reinserting them each time adjustments are needed.

Reattaching File Cabinet Drawers

Once all the cleaning, repairs, or upgrades are complete, you’re ready to put the drawers back in. Reattaching them takes just a few steps:

Step 1: Extend Slide Rails

Make sure the slide rails on the sides of the cabinet interior are extended all the way so they are ready to accept the drawers.

Step 2: Align the Drawer

Pick up a drawer and align the slides on the bottom with the extended cabinet rails. Ensure the roller wheels are facing the right direction to roll smoothly when inserted.

Step 3: Insert the Drawer

Gently push the drawer into the cabinet opening, ensuring the slides remain aligned with each rail. Keep sliding it straight back until the drawer is fully inserted.

Step 4: Reattach Securing Hardware

Once fully inserted, replace any screws, clamps, or clasps that were removed earlier through the back of the drawer frame to secure it in place inside the cabinet.

Step 5: Test the Drawer

Carefully open and close the drawer completely to ensure it is sliding smoothly on its rails once again. Make any necessary adjustments to the securing hardware.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Drawers

Finally, return to step 2 and replace all remaining drawers in the same manner, carefully lining them up and resecuring each one.

With all the drawers realigned and secured with their original hardware, the file cabinet should now function properly once again.

Troubleshooting Problems with Sticky or Jammed Drawers

If you encounter any sticking or jamming as you try to remove or reinsert the file cabinet drawers, there are a few key troubleshooting tips:

• Lubricate – Apply a dry lubricant like WD-40 to all the metal sliding components. This reduces friction and sticking. Re-test the drawer movement.
• Adjust hardware – Loosen or tighten any securing screws as needed so the drawer has some play to move but doesn’t slide loosely off the rails.
• Replace broken parts – Inspect for any broken wheels, roller pins, or guide rails and swap in new replacements as needed so everything moves smoothly.
• Remove debris – Check for any obstructions, dirt, small items jammed between moving components and clean out thoroughly.
• Try switching rails – If one specific drawer is sticking, swap its rail set with a different drawer that glides smoothly to isolate the problematic components.

Focusing on lubricating, adjusting hardware tensions, and replacing any visibly damaged parts will typically get drawers sliding freely once again after removal and reinstallation into mini Metall file cabinets.

Advantages of Taking Out File Cabinet Drawers

While it takes a bit more time upfront, removing all the drawers from a file cabinet provides some key advantages versus trying to clean and make repairs with them still in place:

• Full access – With the drawers out of the way, you can see and reach all interior surfaces much easier to thoroughly clean, paint, or make repairs.
• Identify root causes – Taking the components apart lets you inspect everything closely and identify the true source of any sticking or malfunction for permanent repairs.
• Replace components easily – With all hardware exposed, you can easily swap out individual broken rails, wheels, and other cheaply replaceable parts.
• Avoid repeated handling – You don’t have to constantly insert and remove drawers over and over to make adjustments once they are apart.
• Prevent scratching – Taking drawers fully out avoids scraping them against the cabinet opening while trying to clean and make adjustments with limited space.

So while it adds a brief initial time investment, removing the drawers truly sets you up for smooth long-term maintenance and repairs down the road.

Safety Tips for Removing File Cabinet Drawers

When taking drawers out of any file cabinet, keep these basic safety pointers in mind:

• Empty drawers completely first to reduce weight and prevent contents from spilling.
• Open drawers slowly to avoid pulling the cabinet over if they are overloaded.
• Grip drawers tightly and lift using your legs to avoid injury from their weight.
• Inspect rails and slides and remove any torn metal edges with gloves and pliers.
• Keep hands clear when closing drawers to avoid pinching fingers in the slides.
• Set drawers down gently to avoid damaging the rollout extensions.
• Ensure to fully re-secure drawers before loading contents back in.

Staying aware and moving carefully will keep both you and the file cabinet components safe throughout the removal and reinstallation process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing File Cabinet Drawers

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about removing the drawers from mini Metall file cabinets:

How do I get a stuck drawer unstuck?

If a drawer is stuck, first try lubricating the slide rails with WD-40 and gently working it back and forth to release it. If that fails, fully extend the stuck drawer and detach the securing hardware in the back so it is free to maneuver and dislodge.

Can I just replace the entire slide rails instead?

Yes, you can replace entire rail assemblies instead of just the individual broken wheels or rollers if needed. Measure the slide size and order complete replacement rails that match.

What tools do I need?

A flathead screwdriver and pliers are generally sufficient. Optionally, a flashlight and tape measure help with seeing the small hardware and taking precise measurements for replacements.

How do I prevent scratches while removing drawers?

Pull drawers straight back slowly and lift straight up gently to avoid scraping. Place them on a soft, clean surface while out. Pad the bottom of the drawer if it will be slid over hard flooring.

My file cabinet doesn’t have any visible securing hardware. How are the drawers attached?

Look inside the cabinet for small plastic tabs that pop into slots under the drawer to hold it in. Carefully bend these tabs back with a screwdriver to release the drawer.

How much weight can file cabinet drawers hold?

Standard drawer slide rails are typically rated for 75-100 lbs each. Heavy duty or full extension slides may support up to 150 lbs per drawer. Always check your specific cabinet’s capacity before overloading.

Removing the drawers from your mini Metall file cabinet ensures you can fully clean, maintain, and customize it for optimal utility. Just take care to remove and reinstall each drawer gently and securely. With the steps covered here, you can take on this useful DIY project and get your file cabinet functioning smoothly for years of reliable service organizing your home or office.

Conclusion

Removing drawers from a mini Metall file cabinet allows for thorough cleaning, repairing slides and rollers, replacing broken parts, reorganizing contents, and general upgrades. All it takes are some basic tools like a flathead screwdriver, flashlight, and work gloves. Empty the drawers completely first before pulling them out fully extended. Detach any small metal securing clasps or screws in the back or sides before gently sliding the drawers out. With the drawers removed, the cabinet interior is easily accessible for cleaning and repairs. Reattaching the drawers is just as straightforward – simply slide them back onto the extended rails and resecure the original hardware like clasps or screws. Taking your time to properly remove and reinstall the drawers prevents scratches and damage. With some periodic maintenance done after removing the drawers, a high-quality mini Metall file cabinet can stay in good working order for many years of dependable service.

Related Articles:

• [How to Organize Your Files and Folders in a File Cabinet]
• [Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up a Home Filing System]
• [Essential Supplies for Organizing Your Home Office]
• [Maximizing Small Space Storage with Mini File Cabinets]
• [When to Ditch Your Old Filing Cabinet and Go Paperless]