Stainless steel drawer boxes are a popular choice for upgrading kitchen and bathroom cabinets. They provide a sleek, modern look and are highly durable and easy to clean. But with so many options on the market, where is the best place to shop for stainless steel drawer boxes? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the pros and cons of various places to buy stainless steel drawer boxes for your cabinets.
Buying Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes Online
Ordering stainless steel drawer boxes online offers certain advantages:
- Wide selection – Online retailers tend to have a huge selection of sizes, styles and finishes. You can easily shop many brands and models all in one place.
- Convenience – No need to drive around town. Simply browse and order from the comfort of your home.
- Competitive pricing – Online retailers can offer lower prices because of lower overhead. Comparison shopping is easy.
- Reviews – Read feedback from other customers before purchasing a particular model. This helps avoid poor quality products.
Some good online sources for stainless steel drawer boxes include:
Amazon
With its massive selection and fast shipping, Amazon is one of the top places to buy stainless steel drawer boxes online. You’ll find many brand name and generic options at good prices. Amazon also has customer reviews so you can feel confident choosing a high quality product.
Home Depot
Another reliable source for ordering stainless steel drawer boxes online is The Home Depot. They carry brands like Rev-A-Shelf and Richelieu Hardware with free shipping on many items. The website also has useful sizing guides and installation videos.
Wayfair
Wayfair has one of the largest selections available online. They offer free shipping on most stainless steel drawer boxes. Use their filter tools to shop by size, style, finish and more.
eBay
On eBay you can find lots of auction and buy-it-now listings for new and used stainless steel drawer boxes. This can be a more budget-friendly option. Just be sure to buy from reputable sellers with positive feedback.
When ordering online, be sure to double check all measurements of your cabinet openings. Carefully review return policies in case the drawer boxes don’t fit properly or meet your expectations.
Buying at Big Box Hardware Stores
Popular national chains like Lowes and Home Depot have a selection of stainless steel drawer boxes available right in store.
Lowe’s
At Lowe’s you can browse a decent selection of drawer boxes from brands like Rev-A-Shelf, Richelieu, Knape & Vogt and GlideRite. The advantage of shopping at Lowe’s is being able to see and touch products in person before purchasing.
Home Depot
The Home Depot also has stainless steel drawer boxes in stock from top brands. You can get hands on experience and advice from knowledgeable employees. They also offer home installation services.
When shopping at big box hardware stores, price match guarantees can help you get the best deal. Also look for any rebates or promotions being offered. The major downside is having a smaller selection than online. So you may need to visit multiple locations or order the specific model you want shipped to the store.
Shopping at Cabinetry Stores
Stores that specialize in kitchen and bathroom cabinets and storage systems are another option for finding stainless steel drawer boxes.
The Container Store
The aptly named Container Store has many sizes and configurations of stainless steel drawers. Their Elfa brand is high quality. You can get custom solutions for your exact cabinet space.
Cabinet Joint
Check Cabinet Joint for Rev-A-Shelf drawer boxes, sinks and accessories. Their showrooms allow you to see everything in person. Custom design services are also available.
Kitchen Cabinet Kings
Kitchen Cabinet Kings sells Aristokraft brand drawer boxes to match their cabinets. Visit a showroom or order online. Knowledgeable support for DIY installation.
The benefit of specialty cabinet and organizational stores is their expertise. Employees can help you take measurements and select the optimal stainless steel drawer boxes for your specific cabinets and needs. The drawback is typically higher prices than big box or online retailers.
Buying Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes Locally
Beyond major national retailers, consider shops and suppliers in your local area:
Hardware Stores
Many smaller, independent hardware stores stock useful selections of drawer slides, organizers and accessories. Ask if they can special order stainless steel drawer boxes for you.
Home Organization Stores
Check specialty home organization stores like The Container Store for Elfa and other quality brands. Get custom solutions tailored to your space.
Kitchen Remodeling Showrooms
Showrooms for local kitchen contractors and remodelers often have contacts for sourcing drawer boxes and cabinetry parts. Their suppliers may sell direct to consumers.
Restaurant Supply Stores
Restaurant and commercial kitchen supply dealers can be great resources for sturdy, affordable stainless steel drawers and slides. Brands like Metro stock various standard sizes.
Metal Fabrication Shops
For a truly custom solution, local welding and metal fabrication companies can build stainless steel drawer boxes to your exact specifications. This is pricier but results in a perfect fit.
Shopping with local suppliers gives you the benefit of being able to see and test products in person. You also support small businesses in your community. Lead times for special orders may be slower than online options, so factor this into your cabinet upgrade schedule.
What to Look for When Buying Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes
To choose the best stainless steel drawer boxes for your cabinets, keep the following features in mind:
- Construction – Look for boxes made from durable 18- or 20-gauge stainless steel, with rolled or reinforced edges. Quality dovetail construction keeps drawers aligned.
- Fit – Measure your cabinet openings carefully. Height, width and depth all impact fit. Allow for drawer slides and fronts when calculating drawer box dimensions.
- Slides – Full extension ball bearing slides allow full access and easy operation. Soft-close is a nice feature that prevents slamming. Side mount slides provide stability.
- Finish – Most common is a brushed satin finish, but you can also find polished and textured options to suit your style.
- Special features – Consider details like rubber feet, non-slip lining, and cutlery organizers. Some have built-in locks and child safety latches.
- Versatility – Look for standard sizes that allow interchangeability and easy replacement or expansion down the road.
- Price – Stainless steel drawer boxes range widely in cost from $50 up over $500 depending on size, features and quality. Set a budget before shopping.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can zero in on the ideal stainless steel drawer boxes to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom. Taking precise measurements is also key for a perfect custom fit.
How Much Do Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes Cost?
Stainless steel drawer boxes represent an investment, though prices vary considerably based on size, materials, features and other factors:
- Standard 12-inch drawer boxes tend to range from $50 to $150.
- Medium 24-inch boxes for base cabinets run between $100 and $300 typically.
- For deep 30 to 36-inch boxes for full extension, expect to pay $200 to $500.
- High-end built-in refrigerator and warmer drawers cost $800 to $1,500+.
- Custom-built stainless steel drawers cost $200 per box and up, depending on materials, labor, and options chosen.
These are general price ranges, but you can certainly find quality drawer boxes both under and over these prices. Freight shipping, sales tax and installation costs are additional expenses to factor in if not included.
High-end drawer boxes from brands like Blum, Hafele, and Rev-A-Shelf offer smoother glides and soft-closing features but cost more. Cheaper options from big box stores lack these luxuries but provide an affordable alternative. Restaurant supply drawers are typically mid-range in price but high in durability.
When budgeting for your drawer box upgrade, remember that quality is important for longevity and ease of use. This is especially critical in frequently accessed kitchen and bathroom drawers. Consider costs per drawer rather than as a total package. Prioritize higher spending on drawers you will use most often.
Features to Look for By Drawer Location
The ideal features for stainless steel drawer boxes can vary depending on their intended location in your kitchen or bathroom:
Kitchen Drawers
For kitchen cutlery and utensil drawers, prioritize an organizational solution like bamboo compartments, removable bins and adjustable dividers. Shallow drawers for knives and gadgets need to be well-organized but don???t require as much interior clearance.
Deeper kitchen drawers for pots and pans should have full-extension slides rated for heavierweights. Non-slip liners are essential.
For pantry storage or baking essentials, look for deeper, wider boxes that maximize capacity. Try built-in racks, dividers and partitions to hold canned goods, baking sheets, and mixing bowls neatly in place.
Refrigerator and warmer drawers need to maintain safe temperatures and seal tightly while opening smoothly.
Bathroom Vanity Drawers
For bathroom vanity drawers, look for smaller boxes with features like integrated towel bars, makeup organizers and trays for toiletries. Gentle soft-close mechanisms prevent loud slamming.
Medicine cabinet style shallow drawers work well for a tidy, concealed storage look in modern bathrooms. Integrated electrical outlets are handy for charging electric toothbrushes and other gadgets.
General Features
Any frequently used kitchen or bathroom drawer will benefit from smooth rolling glides for easy access. Rubber bottom feet prevent slippage and keep the roller mechanisms working properly.
Look for a durable stainless steel gauge suited for the weight of contents. Reinforced edges add structural stability. Many manufacturers offer custom sizing to maximize your specific available space.
How to Install Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes
Once you have selected the perfect stainless steel drawer boxes, it???s time to tackle the installation. Here is an overview of the process:
Step 1: Remove Existing Drawers
- Empty all contents from your current drawers.
- Using a screwdriver, remove any drawer faces, handles or hardware.
- Slide each drawer completely out. Look for release tabs or clips you may need to disconnect before lifting the drawer box out.
Step 2. Verify Fit
- Carefully measure corresponding cabinet openings again.
- Check that your new drawer boxes are slightly narrower and shorter to ensure proper clearance.
- Confirm drawer slides are appropriate for your cabinet configuration.
Step 3. Install Slides
- Attach slides to the interior cabinet sides per manufacturer instructions.
- Use a level to keep them perfectly straight.
- Test that slides extend fully and operate smoothly.
Step 4. Attach Drawer Boxes
- Set each drawer box on extended slides and attach the opposite slide sides.
- Keep boxes level as you attach to avoid binding.
- Check that clearance and alignment are correct.
Step 5. Reinstall Drawer Fronts
- Attach original drawer fronts or install new ones matching your cabinetry.
- Center fronts so gaps on either side are even.
- Attach knobs or pulls to finish.
Step 6. Smooth Operation
- Remove any interior packaging or wrapping on slides.
- Fully extend and close drawers to ensure proper gliding.
- Adjust if needed until operation is smooth.
Step 7. Maximize Storage
- Add drawer liners or organizers to keep contents neatly in place.
- Enjoy your upgraded kitchen or bathroom storage!
For frameless style cabinets with pre-attached drawer slide brackets, you can skip directly to installing and aligning the drawer boxes. Always follow specific directions from the slide and drawer box manufacturer too. Some handy homeowners are comfortable tackling DIY stainless steel drawer box installation. Others may prefer hiring a professional installer for proper alignment and operation.
FAQs About Buying Stainless Steel Drawer Boxes
What are the benefits of stainless steel drawer boxes?
Stainless steel drawers offer durability, easy cleaning, moisture resistance, and a modern sleek look. They also provide smooth operation and can be custom configured to maximize storage space.
How do I know what size drawer boxes to get?
Carefully measure corresponding cabinet openings, accounting for necessary clearance around the drawer box. Also consider the drawer slides and fronts when calculating ideal drawer box dimensions.
Should I get side-mount or bottom-mount drawer slides?
Side-mounted slides provide the most stability and weight capacity. Bottom-mount slides are simpler to install but may bind more easily when overloaded.
What style drawer fronts work with stainless boxes?
Stainless drawer boxes work with many styles – slab, shaker, inset, overlay, etc. Just be sure your new fronts are designed to fit the box dimensions and slide configuration.
How much weight can stainless steel drawer boxes hold?
It depends on the gauge and reinforcement, but most quality stainless boxes hold up to 75-100 lbs when used with proper slides rated for that weight capacity. Heavier duty options are available too.
Can I install stainless drawer boxes myself?
With good DIY skills and proper measurements, many homeowners can tackle drawer box installation. But for built-in or complex cabinetry, hiring a professional installer is recommended to ensure proper fit and operation.
How much does it cost to hire installation help?
Installers typically charge around $50 per drawer box, depending on your area. Complex jobs or new cabinet fabrication will take longer and cost more. Get an itemized estimate before hiring.
Are there alternatives more affordable than stainless?
Yes, you can find quality drawer boxes made from coated steel, aluminum, polymer, or engineered wood composites that cost less than stainless steel. Just avoid low-grade particle board.
Conclusion
Upgrading to stainless steel drawer boxes is one of the hottest trends in contemporary kitchen and bathroom storage. Stainless offers a clean, uniform look along with strength and longevity. With careful shopping, you can find high quality stainless steel drawers at reasonable prices to fit your budget.
Take precise measurements, read reviews, and evaluate essential features before purchasing drawer boxes. Look online for wide selections, competitive pricing and convenience. Or visit local cabinet and hardware stores for hands on assistance. With some DIY skills, you can likely handle installation to save on labor costs too.
Investing in stainless steel drawer boxes helps maximize your cabinet storage and provides a lifetime of smooth, reliable operation. So don’t settle for outdated and worn drawers. Bring your kitchen or bathroom storage into the modern age with strong, sleek stainless steel drawer boxes conveniently shopped online or near you.