Symptoms
- Drawer or door won't budge at all
- Problem is worse in humid weather or seasons
- Wood looks slightly swollen or discolored at edges
Likely causes
- CommonHigh indoor humidity causing wood to swellWood is porous and expands as it absorbs moisture from the air.
- PossiblePoor finish or sealant allowing moisture absorptionUnfinished or worn edges absorb more moisture than sealed surfaces.
- PossibleWater spill or leak nearbyA nearby leak or spill can cause more severe, localized swelling.
What to do
- Run a dehumidifier or air conditioner in the room to reduce ambient humidity.
- Avoid forcing the drawer or door, which can crack or splinter swollen wood.
- Once slightly loosened, rub a bar of paraffin wax along the sticking edges.
- If still stuck, gently sand down the swollen edge in small amounts, testing fit frequently.
- After it moves freely, seal any bare wood with a matching finish or sealant to reduce future absorption.
- Identify and fix any nearby moisture source, like a leaking pipe or window, causing repeated swelling.
Tools and parts
- Sandpaper
- Paraffin wax
- Dehumidifier
- Wood finish or sealant
Wood sealant or finishSearch: “clear wood sealant for furniture”
When to call a pro
If swelling keeps recurring, a home moisture or humidity assessment can identify an underlying issue like poor ventilation.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.