How To Remove Drawers From Lateral Filing Cabinet

How to Remove Drawers From a Lateral Filing Cabinet

Lateral filing cabinets, with their spacious drawers and sturdy construction, are popular choices for organizing and storing documents. Occasionally, it may be necessary to remove the drawers from a lateral filing cabinet. This could be for cleaning the cabinet, rearranging the files, or even moving the cabinet itself. Removing drawers from a lateral filing cabinet can be accomplished safely and easily by following a few straightforward steps.

1. Prepare for Drawer Removal

Before beginning the drawer removal process, gather the necessary tools and clear the surrounding area for safe and efficient work.

Here's what you'll need:

A set of screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
A hammer (optional, for stubborn drawers)
A helper (optional, for heavier drawers)
Gloves (optional, for protection)
A soft, clean cloth (for wiping down surfaces)

Ensure that the area around the filing cabinet is clear of obstructions to prevent accidents during the removal process. It's also a good idea to remove any valuable items from the top of the cabinet or surrounding areas.

2. Empty the Drawer

Removing the drawer from the cabinet is much easier when it’s completely empty. Before proceeding to the next step, ensure that the drawer is empty of all files, folders, and other contents. Carefully remove all items and set them aside in a safe place.

3. Identify and Release the Drawer Slides

Lateral filing cabinets use drawer slides to allow smooth operation. To remove the drawer, you’ll need to release these slides. Here's how to do it:

Locate the Drawer Slides: Look at the sides of the drawer. There will be metal tracks running along the sides of the drawer, extending from the front to the back. These are the drawer slides.
Identify the Release Mechanism: Examine the front end of the drawer slides. You'll likely find a small lever, button, or a tab. This is the release mechanism.
Release the Slides: Look for a lever that needs to be flipped, a button that needs to be pressed, or a tab that needs to be pulled. The action needed to release the slides varies depending on the design of the drawer and the cabinet.
Pull the Drawer Out: Once the slides are released, gently pull the drawer out of the cabinet.

If the drawer is particularly heavy, it may be helpful to have a helper assist you in pulling it out.

4. Remove the Drawer Completely

Once you have pulled the drawer out enough to access the release mechanism, you can fully remove the drawer from the cabinet. There may be a small retaining clip at the back of the drawer that needs to be removed, or the drawer may simply lift off the slides once they are released.

To avoid damage to the cabinet or the drawer, always handle the drawer with care and avoid placing it directly on the floor. It's best to place the drawer on a soft surface, such as a blanket or a piece of cardboard.

5. Reinstall the Drawer

After you have finished cleaning, rearranging files, or moving the cabinet, you will need to reinstall the drawer. To do this, follow these steps in reverse order:

Align the Drawer: Line up the drawer with the slides in the cabinet.
Push the Drawer In: Gently push the drawer back into the cabinet, ensuring it slides smoothly.
Engage the Release Mechanism: Once the drawer is fully seated, engage the release mechanism. This will lock the drawer in place.
Test the Drawer: Open and close the drawer a few times to ensure it slides smoothly and locks properly.

If you encounter any difficulty during the installation process, double-check that the drawer slides are properly aligned and that the release mechanism is engaged. It is also important to note that some drawers may have additional safety features, such as a locking mechanism, that need to be addressed during the removal and installation process.