Replacement Kitchen Drawers: Cost, Types & DIY Guide (2025)

Replacing kitchen drawers is one of the simplest ways to refresh your kitchen without committing to a full renovation. Whether your drawers are sagging, sticking, broken, or simply outdated, a quick kitchen drawer replacement can dramatically improve storage, function, and everyday convenience.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about replacement drawers for kitchen cabinets, including how to measure, choose, and install new drawers, plus costs, options, and expert tips to avoid common mistakes.

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Table of Contents

1. Why Replace Kitchen Drawers?

Kitchen drawers are workhorses. Over time they absorb constant pulling, slamming, weight overload, and daily wear. That’s why issues like sticking drawers, cracked boxes, or worn-out hardware happen so often.

Replacing drawers helps upgrade:

Storage capacity
Smooth opening and closing
Accessibility
Kitchen aesthetics
Overall organization

It’s an affordable alternative to kitchen cabinet drawer repair or full kitchen cabinet renovation, especially when only the drawers have problems.

2. Signs You Need Replacement Kitchen Drawers

It may be time for cabinet drawer replacement if you notice:

1. Broken or Sagging Drawer Boxes

Old plywood or particleboard drawers weaken or split over time.

2. Damaged Drawer Runners / Slides

If the drawer feels uneven, wobbly, or loud, your drawer slides may be the issue.

3. Drawer Doesn’t Open or Close Properly

This can be caused by misalignment or worn-out hardware.

4. Worn or Loose Drawer Fronts

Visible cracks, chips, and peeling coatings are signs your kitchen drawer fronts need replacement.

5. Cabinet Hardware Failure

Loose screws, broken brackets, or rusted glides are clear red flags.

3. Types of Replacement Kitchen Drawers

Understanding your options helps you choose the right upgrade for your kitche

3.1 Pre-Made Kitchen Drawers

These are ready-to-install drawer boxes available in standard sizes. They’re ideal for:

Budget-friendly makeovers
Fast replacements
Standard cabinet openings

3.2 Custom Kitchen Drawers

If your cabinets are older or uniquely sized, custom kitchen drawers are the best fit. They allow you to choose:

Solid wood or premium materials
Soft-close drawer slides
Heavy-duty construction
Custom heights and depths

3.3 Drawer Replacement Kits

These DIY-friendly kits include:

Drawer box
Slides
Screws and hardware

Perfect for homeowners who want an affordable but complete solution.

4. Drawers vs Shelves: Which is Better?

Many homeowners wonder whether they should replace shelves with drawers. In most kitchens, drawers win.

Benefits of Drawers

Better accessibility
Full use of cabinet depth
No bending or reaching
Ideal for pots, pans, and utensils

Drawers simply offer superior kitchen storage solutions.

5. How to Measure for Replacement Drawers

Accurate measurements are essential before ordering replacement drawers for kitchen cabinets.

Measure Width

Measure the inside opening of your cabinet, not the old drawer.

Measure Height

Keep at least 1/2 inch clearance from the opening.

Measure Depth

Measure from the inside front to the inside back of the cabinet box.

Check Slide Type

Slides come in:

Side-mount
Undermount
Center-mount

Knowing your runner type helps ensure accurate drawer installation.

6. Step-by-Step Guide: DIY Kitchen Drawer Replacement

Replacing drawers is easier than most people expect. Here’s a simple guide:

6.1 Remove the Old Drawer

Pull the drawer out fully
Release the clip or lift mechanism (for modern slides)
Unscrew the drawer front if replacing it
Remove the old slides and hardware

6.2 Install New Drawer Slides

Mark slide placement
Keep them perfectly level
Screw in the new soft-close or standard slides

6.3 Install the New Drawer Box

Slide the box into place
Ensure smooth forward/back movement
Make minor adjustments as needed

6.4 Attach the Drawer Front

Align the front piece (use clamps)
Screw from inside the drawer
Test closing and spacing

7. Cost of Replacing Kitchen Drawers (2025 Pricing)

The cost depends on material, size, and whether you choose pre-made or custom drawers.

7.1 Cost of Pre-Made Drawer

$40 – $120 per drawer
(Standard sizes, plywood or particleboard)

7.2 Cost of Custom Drawers

$120 – $300+ per drawer
(Solid wood, dovetail construction, soft-close slides)

7.3 Labor Costs for Professional Installation

Hiring a handyman or installer:
$50 – $150 per drawer depending on complexity.

If multiple drawers show issues, consider a small kitchen cabinet renovation.

8. Best Places to Buy Replacement Drawers

Homeowners often shop at:

Home Depot
Lowe’s
Online specialty cabinet suppliers
Custom woodworking shops
Local carpentry services

Most offer a wide selection of replacement drawers for kitchen cabinets.

9. Kitchen Drawer Upgrades Worth Considering

When replacing drawers, consider upgrading to:

Soft-Close Slides

Silent and smooth—excellent for modern kitchens.

Full-Extension Slides

Lets you see and access the entire drawer.

Deeper Drawer Boxes

Great for pots, pans, and bulky items.

Modern Drawer Fronts

Instantly refreshes the kitchen aesthetic.

10. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Drawers

A few simple habits keep your drawers working beautifully:

Lubricate drawer slides yearly
Tighten loose screws
Clean tracks from dust and crumbs
Avoid overloading with heavy items
Check cabinet hardware regularly

11. Conclusion

Replacing kitchen drawers is one of the most affordable and high-impact upgrades you can make in your home. Whether you’re installing pre-made kitchen drawers, upgrading to custom soft-close options, or doing a DIY kitchen drawer replacement, the result is always improved storage, better function, and a cleaner, more modern kitchen.

If you found this helpful, explore more home-improvement guides to keep your kitchen efficient, organized, and beautiful.

FAQs About Replacement Kitchen Drawers

1. Can you replace just kitchen drawers?

Yes! You can replace only the drawer boxes, drawer fronts, or hardware without replacing entire cabinets. This is very common and cost-effective.

2. Can you buy replacement drawers for kitchen cabinets?

Absolutely. Pre-made and custom drawers are widely available online and in major home improvement stores.

3. How much does it cost to replace a kitchen drawer?

Most homeowners spend between $40 and $300 per drawer, depending on whether they choose pre-made or custom.

4. Can you get replacement drawers?

Yes. You can get complete replacement drawer boxes, drawer fronts, or full drawer replacement kits, including slides and hardware.