How to Install False Drawer Front Tip-Out Trays

False kitchen drawer fronts that border the kitchen sink are for cosmetic purposes only - until they are equipped with handy tip-out trays. Multipurpose tip-out trays can easily be installed, and they provided extra storage space for kitchen sponges, pencils, pens, rubber bands, and many other odds and ends that tend to clutter the kitchen. False drawer tip-out trays are very easy to install, and even though the trays do not hold as much as a junk drawer, they hold enough to make a difference. Kitchen sponges will no longer clutter the back of the sink, and pens, pencils, and other small items will be within fast and easy reach.

Remove Drawer Fronts

Begin by carefully removing the false drawer fronts. They are more than likely attached with screws or turnbuckles, and if necessary remove any additional hardware or handles or knobs on the false kitchen drawer fronts.

Install Hardware

Next, you need to install the hinged hardware that will allow the tip-out trays to open and close. The hinges are probably marked with an “L” and an “R,” which signifies left and right. When installing the hinges to the cabinet frame, keep in mind that the bases of the hinges should be flush with the base of the openings, and they should be installed approximately 1/8 of an inch from the front edge.

Once you figure out the proper placement for the hinges, use a pencil to mark where the screws should go, and drill small pilot holes to make installing the screws easier. The pilot holes will also help prevent the wood from splitting.

Lay Drawer Fronts

Next, lay the false drawer fronts right side down on a flat work surface, and using a pencil, mark the areas for the hinges and trays as specified by the instructions that came with the kit. Once the locations are determined, drill small pilot holes, and use caution so the drill bit does not go all the way through to the other side of the wood.

Attach Trays

Temporarily attach the tip-out trays to the drawer fronts with screws. Once the screw holes are established, remove the trays, but keep the screws in place. Attach the drawer front to the hinges that are already attached to the cabinet frame. Once the false drawer fronts are attached to the hinges, attach the tip-out trays and slide them into place. Carefully hand-tighten the screws, but not as far as they will go. Leaving the screws partially extended will allow for ease in removal and cleaning.

You will find the tip-out trays are very convenient once you fill them with kitchen necessities. They will become a catchall for all types of small items, and with careful organization, you might even be able to eliminate a junk drawer. Place most of your pens and pencils in a holder and a few in one of the tip-out trays. Use the other tray for storing the kitchen sponge. Once you begin using them you will wonder how you ever got by without false drawer front tip-out trays.