HomeBlogBlogDrawer Slides, Runners, Glides & Tracks: What to Call Them

Drawer Slides, Runners, Glides & Tracks: What to Call Them

What are the sliding things on drawers called?

The sliding things on drawers are most commonly called drawer slides or drawer runners. Depending on the style, they may also be called drawer glides or drawer tracks. These hardware pieces guide the drawer as it opens and closes, keeping it level, reducing friction, and helping it carry weight smoothly.

If you’re shopping for a storage piece with multiple drawers—like a modern buffet cabinet—knowing the terminology helps when comparing build quality, replacement parts, and features like soft-close. For a practical example of how drawers and sliding doors work together in a storage cabinet, see this guide: 59-inch modern buffet cabinet with 4 drawers and sliding doors.

Common names you’ll see when buying or replacing them

Drawer slides: The most widely used term for the full slide mechanism (both the cabinet-side and drawer-side parts).

Drawer runners: Often used interchangeably with slides, especially for simpler side-mounted systems or older furniture.

Drawer glides: A common retail term that can refer to ball-bearing slides, roller slides, or low-friction systems.

Tracks: Sometimes used when describing the “channel” a drawer follows, especially for bottom-mounted or center-mounted designs.

Types of drawer slides (and why the name might change)

Side-mount slides: Mounted on the sides of the drawer box; typically ball-bearing or roller style. These are frequently labeled “drawer slides.”

Undermount slides: Hidden under the drawer for a cleaner look and often soft-close performance; usually sold as “undermount drawer slides.”

Center-mount slides: A single slide centered beneath the drawer; lighter-duty and sometimes described as a “drawer track” or “runner.”

Quick tip for identifying what you have

Pull the drawer out and look for metal rails on the sides (side-mount), hidden hardware underneath (undermount), or one rail in the middle (center-mount). The mounting style helps determine the correct replacement and load rating.

FAQ

What are the sliding parts of a drawer called?

They’re usually called drawer slides, drawer runners, or drawer glides. The term often depends on the slide style and how the manufacturer labels the hardware.

What do you call the thing a drawer rolls on?

It’s typically the slide or runner, and on some designs it includes rollers or ball bearings. The “track” can also refer to the channel that guides the drawer’s movement.