Removing old drawer pulls from kitchen cabinets can be done without damaging them by following these steps:
Inspect the Hardware: Examine the backside of the drawer or cabinet door to determine how the pulls are attached. Most pulls will have screws or bolts securing them in place.
Gather the Right Tools: You'll need a few tools to safely remove the drawer pulls: a screwdriver (Phillips or flat-head, depending on the screw type), pliers (optional), and a piece of cloth or cardboard to protect the surface from scratches.
Loosen the Screws: If there are visible screws on the interior side of the drawer or cabinet door, use the appropriate screwdriver to loosen them. Turn counterclockwise to loosen the screws but do not fully remove them just yet.
Check for Hidden Fasteners: Some older pulls might have hidden fasteners, such as bolts or nuts, that are not visible from the inside. In this case, you may need to reach behind the cabinet door or drawer front while holding the pull in place to locate and hold the fastener while you turn the screw counterclockwise to remove it.
Apply Penetrating Oil (if needed): If the screws or fasteners are stubborn and won't turn easily, you can apply a small amount of penetrating oil to help loosen them. Allow the oil to sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the screws again.
Remove the Screws Completely: Once the screws or fasteners are sufficiently loosened, remove them entirely, making sure to hold the pull in place as you do so to prevent it from falling and causing damage.
Gently Pry if Necessary: If the drawer pull is still sticking to the surface after the screws are removed, you can use a flat-head screwdriver or a putty knife wrapped in a cloth to gently pry the pull away from the surface. Be cautious not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the cabinet or the pull.
Fill and Touch-up (if needed): If the pulls leave any noticeable holes or marks on the cabinet surface, you can fill them with wood filler or putty. Once dry, sand it lightly and touch up the area with paint or stain to match the cabinet finish.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to remove old drawer pulls from kitchen cabinets without causing any damage. Remember to work patiently and be gentle with the hardware and the cabinet surfaces.