Pull-Out Kitchen Shelves: Installation in 8 Steps

Kitchen shelves are essential for maximizing storage and organization in your cooking space. Pull-out shelves take that functionality even further by allowing you to fully extend drawers and access items in the back that normally get lost or forgotten. Installing pull-out shelves is a relatively easy DIY project that can completely transform your kitchen storage. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn the entire process in 8 key steps.

Select the Right Pull-Out Shelves

The first step is choosing the right pull-out shelves for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider:

Type of Material – Pull-out shelves come in different materials like wood, metal, and plastic. Wood shelves provide a classic look but can be prone to warping. Metal is sturdy but typically more industrial. Plastic is affordable but not as durable long-term.
Weight rating – Check the maximum weight capacity to ensure the shelves can handle your heaviest pots, pans, or appliances.
Height – Standard heights are available but if you have extra deep cabinets, get adjustable height shelves.
Width – Measure the exact interior width of your cabinet to get a custom fitted shelf size.
Features – Look for shelves with full extension slides for maximum reach, soft-close mechanisms for smooth and quiet operation, and removable bins for organization.
Style – Choose a style like wire shelves for visibility, solid shelves for storage, or spice racks for herbs and seasonings.

Once you select the ideal shelves, order the necessary hardware like tracks, brackets, and screws for installing.

Remove Existing Shelves

Before installing the new pull-out shelves, take out any existing or original shelves and hardware in the cabinet space. Remove all shelf pins, rails, and supports. Thoroughly clean the now empty cabinet interior before moving onto the next step.

Install Tracks and Runners

Pull-out shelf hardware includes two main components – the cabinet track and the shelf runner. The cabinet track gets screwed horizontally into the side walls while the shelf runners attach to the shelf frame.

Here is the process for properly installing the tracks:

Hold the track along the inner side wall at the desired height. Make sure it is level using a spirit level tool.
Mark the locations of the pre-drilled track holes on the wall with a pencil.
Drill pilot holes at the marked spots using a drill bit slightly smaller than the track screws. Pilot holes prevent splitting the cabinet frame.
Align the track and begin driving the screws into the pre-drilled pilot holes using a screwdriver. Do not fully tighten yet.
Install another track on the opposite cabinet wall at the exact same height. Keeping them level is crucial.
Once both tracks are installed, go back and tighten down all screws completely.

The shelf runners that attach to the actual shelves have a similar installation process. Simply align them along the shelf sides and drive screws through the provided holes.

Cut Shelves to Fit

Unless you ordered a fully custom and fitted shelf, you’ll likely need to cut the shelves down to properly fit your cabinet space. Here are some tips for trimming shelves:

Carefully measure the distance between the installed tracks to determine the exact width needed. Remember to account for the shelf thickness.
Mark the cut lines on the shelf using a pencil and straight edge. Double check your measurements.
Use a power miter saw to cut the shelf for clean, straight edges. A circular saw can also work.
File or sand any rough edges smooth so drawers can slide easily.
Test fit the trimmed shelf in the cabinet to confirm the sizing before moving on.

Cutting the shelves precisely is crucial for getting a flawless custom fit.

Mount Shelves into Cabinet Tracks

With the cabinet preparation complete, it’s time to permanently mount the shelves:

Ensure the runners are securely attached along the shelf sides first.
Insert the shelf into the cabinet horizontally, tilting it slightly to fit inside the tracks.
Once in place, push the shelf back fully into the tracks until the shelf runners meet the track.
Open and close the shelf several times to test the smoothness. Adjust if needed.
Install any additional shelves at varying heights as desired.
Secure the shelves by installing provided locks or screws through the runner sides into the cabinet frame.

Double check that each shelf slides in and out properly after installing. The runners should fully extend and retract without snagging.

Attach Pull-Out Accessories

One of the big benefits of pull-out shelves is that you can customize them with handy accessories:

Wire baskets – great for organizing fruits, vegetables, and heavier items. Look for baskets that attach to shelves via clips or rods.
Cutlery dividers – keep utensils neatly separated in divided trays.
Spice racks – specially designed to hold spice jars upright.
Towel bars – convenient for placing dish towels right at your fingertips.
Bottle racks – hold wine, sauces, oils, etc in easy reach.
Tilting bins – tilt down for grabbing items in the back while still seeing what’s in front.

Attach any accessories by following the provided manufacturer instructions. Positioning them for optimal use will maximize your storage efficiency.

Add Cabinet Lighting

Installing lighting inside the cabinet is an easy way to make items more visible. Helpful lighting options include:

Battery puck lights – stick onto shelves and turn on automatically when opened. Easy install.
LED strip lights – tape LED strips to underside of shelves. Provide brighter light.
Motion lights – light up when shelves are opened. Helpful for deep cabinets.
Door lights – attach LEDs, pucks or strips to cabinet door interior. Light the entire space.

Make sure to choose lighting options that are safe for use inside cabinets. Low voltage battery or LED lights are the best options.

Organize Items on Shelves

With the shelves fully installed, it’s time to put everything in place:

Edit down and keep only the items you regularly use to avoid clutter.
Group like items together – pots with pots, spices with spices.
Place heavier items like cast iron cookware on bottom shelves.
Keep items you use most frequently toward the front.
Maximize vertical space by stacking where possible.
Don’t overload shelves by adding weight gradually over time.

Editing down and then thoughtfully organizing items will keep your new pull-out shelves looking clean and tidy.

Safety Tips

While extremely useful, pull-out shelves do have some safety considerations:

Open only one shelf at a time to avoid tipping from too much extended weight.
Install included child safety locks to prevent kids from pulling out multiple shelves simultaneously.
Avoid overloading shelves beyond the weight ratings to prevent possible collapse.
Make sure shelves are fully closed when not in use. An open shelf could trip someone walking by.
Use care when installing to avoid nails and hardware punctures.

Following basic safety measures will keep your pull-out shelves functioning safely for years to come.

Installing pull-out shelves is a straightforward project that makes your existing kitchen storage so much more efficient. Follow these 8 key steps for a smooth installation process. Once in place, enjoy the convenience of instant access to everything stored in your cabinets! Let us know if you have any other questions about upgrading with pull-out shelves.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pull-Out Kitchen Shelves

Still have some questions about installing and using pull-out shelves? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

How much weight can pull-out shelves hold?

This depends on the material, but most quality shelves can handle 40 to 75 lbs when fully extended. Refer to the product specs for exact maximum weight ratings. Distribute weight evenly and avoid placing too many heavy items in one area.

How do I remove existing shelves to prepare for new pull-outs?

First remove all shelf pins and supports to fully detach the shelf. Use a hammer or pry bar to remove stubborn pins or rails. Fully clean out the now empty cabinet before installation.

Should cabinet interiors be finished before installing pull-outs?

Yes, it is best to paint or finish the cabinet interior beforehand. Once the hardware is installed, it becomes more difficult to refinish.

What tools do I need for installation?

Having a drill/driver, tape measure, level, pencil, and screwdriver on hand will allow you to fully install the shelves. A miter saw helps for trimming.

How do I adjust shelves that are sagging over time?

You can realign the runners and tighten the track screws. For recurring issues, detach sagging shelves and reinforce the frame underneath or replace deteriorating materials.

Why aren’t my shelves closing all the way?

Check that the tracks are precisely leveled and the shelf width is properly cut to size. Binding can happen if something is out of alignment or rubbing during movement.

How do I clean wooden pull-out shelves?

Use a mild soap and water solution on a soft cloth. For deeper cleaning, try a wood cleaner or gentle wood polish and buff with a lint-free cloth. Avoid excessive moisture.

Should I oil the moving parts?

Occasional lubrication helps maintain smooth movement, but only use a lubricant specifically designed for pull-out shelves. Standard oils can leave residue and attract dirt.

How can I get parts for repairing or adjusting shelves?

Contact the shelf manufacturer, provide your model number, and order replacement parts like tracks, slides, or hardware as needed. Many offer help lines for troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Installing pull-out shelves is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make in your kitchen. By following this 8 step installation guide, you’ll be able to successfully transform your existing cabinets with these space-saving shelves. Just take your time, measure precisely, and use care when handling materials for a smooth process from start to finish.

Once installed, pull-out shelves offer many years of enhanced organization and access to your cabinet contents. Keep them running smoothly by using them properly, cleaning periodically, and watching for signs of wear over time. Reach out with any other pull-out shelf questions that come up along the way!