Have your wooden table or drawer slides become stuck and difficult to move? Don’t force them and risk damage – lubricating the slides is a simple DIY solution to restore smooth operation.
Proper lubrication reduces friction so wooden slides can glide effortlessly once again. It also prevents the abrasive wear and tear that can lead to loose, sloppy slides over time.
This guide covers everything you need to know to lubricate wooden slides and keep your furniture functioning properly.
Why Lubricate Wood Table Slides?
Lubricating the tracks and rails that wooden drawer slides move across provides some major benefits:
- Minimizes friction and sticking – Lubricants reduce surface drag so drawers can open and close smoothly.
- Prevents wear and tear – Unlubricated slides grinding together can cause gradual loosening or even gouging of the wood over years of use.
- Quiets operation – Lubricated slides are nearly silent compared to squeaky dry operation.
- Improves feel – Well-lubricated slides have a precision, quality feel when operating drawers.
- Takes less force – You’ll be able to open and close drawers effortlessly without as much pulling and pushing.
- Extends life – Reduced friction means less damage to the slide components, extending the usable life of your furniture.
Properly maintaining your furniture with slide lubrication will keep it functioning like new and preserve its value.
What Lubricants to Use on Wooden Slides
Choosing the right lubricant ensures safe, effective use on wood:
- Wax – Beeswax, paraffin, and candle wax provide excellent low-friction lubrication for wood drawer slides. Carnauba wax sticks work very well.
- Oils – Food-grade mineral oil or tung oil penetrate into the wood grain to lubricate and protect. Avoid vegetable/cooking oils which can gum up.
- Soap – Bar soap is a traditional wood lubricant. Rub along the tracks and buff off.
- Commercial lubricants – Products like wax sticks or silicone sprays formulated specifically for lubricating wood furniture and slides.
- Silicone spray – Provides very low friction but avoid overspray which causes dust buildup. Wipe off any excess.
- Graphite powder – Works as a dry lubricant. Buff a thin layer into the sliding surfaces.
Avoid greasy lubricants like motor oils or petroleum jellies that will attract dirt and can damage finishes.
How to Apply Lubricant to Wooden Slides
Applying slide lubricant takes just a few easy steps:
1. Clean Slides
Wipe down rails and tracks with a dry cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris before lubricating.
2. Apply Thin Lubricant Layer
Use a cloth or brush to apply a thin, even coating of your chosen lubricant onto the slide rails and tracks. With oils, a few drops spread along the length is sufficient.
3. Distribute Lubricant
Open and close the drawer or slide several times to evenly distribute the lubricant along its full travel.
4. Remove Excess
Wipe away any globs or excess lubricant, leaving only a thin film on the sliding surfaces.
5. Let Set
Allow the lubricant to set for a few hours before heavy use or loading drawers. This prevents transfer of excess lubricant to items.
6. Repeat When Needed
Reapply lubricant whenever slides become stickier and more difficult to operate. This maintains smooth gliding.
With light, frequent lubrication you can keep wooden slides functioning like new for the life of your furniture.
Troubleshooting Sticky Wooden Slides
If properly lubricating slides doesn’t solve stickiness, try these tips:
- Inspect for warping or damage of wood causing binding.
- Ensure drawer is still square and slides are still parallel.
- Remove debris stuck in tracks with a paper clip or dental pick.
- Adjust stop screws so drawer cannot be overclosed and bind.
- Try a different lubricant – the original may have gummed up.
- Lightly sand slides with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out small rough spots.
- Replace damaged slides. Sticking generally indicates excessive wear.
Proper lubrication techniques and addressing any underlying wear or damage issues will have wooden slides moving smoothly once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What lubricants should not be used on wood?
Avoid motor oil, grease, and petroleum jelly which will accumulate dirt and grime. Do not use cooking oils which can become gummy.
How often should slide lubrication be reapplied?
Reapply lubricant every 1-2 years with moderate use, or more often if sticks and squeaks return. Too much lubricant though can attract dirt.
Can I use a lubricant like WD-40?
WD-40 can work temporarily but tends to dry out quickly and gum up over time. Stick to wax, soap, or oils specifically formulated for wood.
How do I lubricate slides I cannot fully remove from a piece of furniture?
Use wax or silicone sprays that can be applied through the opening without needing to detach slides.
What causes wooden slides to stick?
Binding is usually caused by dried out, gummy lubricant, or wear and deformation of the wood allowing rubbing. Insufficient lubrication also allows excess friction.
How do I clean gummy buildup off slides before lubricating?
Use a degreaser like mineral spirits applied with a rag to cut throughold lubricant residue before reapplying fresh lubricant.
Can I lubricate just the tracks or rails rather than both surfaces?
For best results, lubricate both the stationary track and moving rail surfaces to ensure smooth interaction between both components.
How often should wax lubrication be reapplied?
Reapply a fresh coat of wax every 1-2 years for furniture in regular use. Wax builds up so buff off excess before adding more layers.
