Fit a removable drawer liner without using adhesive.

A removable liner makes a kitchen or utility drawer easier to organize and clean. Unlike adhesive-backed paper, it can be lifted out for washing or replacement. Choose a nonadhesive product approved for the drawer surface and the items you plan to store, then work on one drawer at a time.

What you’ll need

• Nonadhesive drawer liner
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Ruler or straightedge
• Scissors
• Soft cloth

Take it step by step

1. Empty the drawer and check its condition. Remove crumbs, clean according to the cabinet maker’s directions, and let the bottom dry completely before covering it.
2. Measure the usable bottom from side to side and front to back. Note any rounded corners, fasteners, or other obstructions rather than assuming the drawer is a perfect rectangle.
3. Lay the liner flat on a clear work surface. Mark its dimensions with a pencil and straightedge, checking the measurements again before cutting.
4. Cut with scissors and place the piece in the drawer without glue or tape. Trim a little at a time until it lies flat without climbing the sides or bunching at the corners.
5. Return a few items and open and close the drawer gently. If the liner shifts or catches, remove it and correct the fit before loading everything.
6. Keep the product’s cleaning directions. Lift the liner periodically to remove trapped crumbs and check that the drawer underneath stays clean and dry.

When to ask for help

Ask a cabinet professional about a sagging bottom, soft wood, persistent dampness, or a drawer that binds. A liner should not hide damage or an active leak.