Cabinet hardware is an essential component of any kitchen or bathroom design, and it’s crucial to get the placement just right. Proper cabinet hardware placement not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also makes the cabinets easier to use. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of placing hardware on your cabinets.
You know we truly believe hardware completely changes the look, feel and vibe of your space. We’ve broken down hardware into a fully comprehensive guide to help you wrap your head around the idea too.
We love how switching out old dated hardware can transform a space from dated to something new! But having your hardware placed incorrectly can quickly impact your entire vision. That’s why we’ve pulled together our cabinet hardware placement guide! These tips and tricks will make your cabinets and hardware shine like they’re supposed too!
Determine the style of your cabinets
Before you can determine where to place your hardware, you need to determine the style of your cabinets. Modern cabinets typically have straight, clean lines, while traditional cabinets may have curves and decorative elements. The style of your cabinets will determine the type of hardware you should use
Choose the type of hardware
There are several types of cabinet hardware to choose from, including knobs, pulls, and handles. Knobs are round, and they’re usually placed on cabinet doors. Pulls and handles are typically used on drawers and are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes.
Determine the placement
The placement of your hardware will depend on the size of your cabinets and the type of hardware you’ve chosen. The most common placement for knobs is in the center of the cabinet door, while pulls are usually placed in the center of the drawer.
Consider the functionality
When placing hardware on your cabinets, it’s essential to consider the functionality of the space. For example, if you have cabinets near the stove, you may want to use heat-resistant materials for your hardware. If you have small children in the home, you may want to use larger hardware that’s easier to grasp.
Measure and mark
Once you’ve determined the placement of your hardware, it’s time to measure and mark. Use a measuring tape to ensure that your hardware is centered and level. Use a pencil to mark the location of your hardware before drilling.
Install the hardware
Finally, it’s time to install your hardware. Use a drill to create the holes for your screws, then attach the hardware to the cabinet using the screws provided.
Cabinet Hardware Placement Guide

Pro Tips – Cabinet Hardware Placement
- Drawers 24” or small need one piece of hardware. Center the hardware in the drawer cabinet front.
- Add double pulls or a larger singular pull for any drawer larger than 24”.
- For two pieces of hardware, take the drawer front off the cabinet and divide it into thirds. Measure to find the center of the cabinet front, then from there find the center of each side…place the hardware in the center of each side. Yeah, that is a lot of centers, we get it.
- When installing one piece of hardware approximately ⅓ the width of a drawer should remain on either side.
- Size up to hardware that is 8″+ for pantry cabinets.
- When shopping for built-in appliances make sure to order appliance hardware
In conclusion, cabinet hardware placement is a crucial aspect of any kitchen or bathroom design. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your hardware is placed in the right location, making your cabinets both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
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