How to Install Pull-Out Cabinet Shelves

Cabinetry storage often turns into a deep, dark void where items are lost behind stacks of pots or boxes of dry goods. Installing pull-out shelves effectively turns a fixed, hard-to-reach cabinet into a functional, ergonomic drawer system that brings your kitchen contents out to meet you. Done well, this project eliminates the frustration of kneeling on the floor to dig through the back of the pantry. The secret lies entirely in your measurements; if your tracks aren't perfectly parallel and level, the shelf will bind or roll out on its own. Take your time with the layout phase, and you will achieve that smooth, professional glide every time you open the door.

  1. Empty and Measure Precisely. Empty the cabinet completely and measure the interior width at the narrowest point, usually near the face frame. Verify there are no obstructions like hinges or door catches that will block the shelf from sliding out.
  2. Mark Reference Lines Level. Decide on your desired shelf spacing and use a carpenter's square to draw a level horizontal line on both side walls of the cabinet. Use a spacer block to ensure the lines are identical in height on both left and right sides.
  3. Mount Tracks Perfectly Level. Align the drawer slides with your pencil lines and drive the provided screws into the cabinet wall. If the cabinet has a face frame, you may need to use spacer blocks to bring the slide flush with the opening.
  4. Build the Shelf Box Square. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to attach the sides, back, and base of the shelf. Ensure the structure is perfectly square by measuring corner-to-corner; if it is not square, the drawer will not glide smoothly.
  5. Attach Drawer Slides Symmetrically. Attach the corresponding drawer-side members of the slide mechanism to the outside bottom edge of your assembled shelf. Ensure they are positioned identically on both sides of the unit.
  6. Test the Glide Action. Slide the shelf into the cabinet, aligning the drawer members with the cabinet members. Push the unit in until it clicks into place and slide it back and forth several times to confirm smooth operation.