How to Install Soft Close Hinges for Kitchen Cabinets

Are you tired of hearing loud bangs every time someone closes a kitchen cabinet? Installing soft close hinges is a fantastic way to upgrade your space and add a touch of luxury without a huge investment. Soft close hinges not only make your cabinets quieter but also increase their lifespan by reducing impact stress. If you want to enjoy a more peaceful kitchen atmosphere, this straightforward DIY project is the answer. Follow along as Handydads shows you how to transform your cabinets in just a couple of hours.

Project Snapshot

Enhancing your kitchen with soft close hinges is a practical yet rewarding project that homeowners of all skill levels can tackle. This update is ideal for families, renters, or anyone looking to add value to their home quickly and affordably. Removing old hinges and replacing them with soft close models will give your cabinets a modern edge. With minimal effort, the entire kitchen takes on a higher-quality feel. Most importantly, there’s no more worrying about slammed doors damaging your cabinets over time.

Tools and Materials

You will need a drill with screwdriver bits, a Phillips screwdriver, a measuring tape, a pencil, and a level for alignment. It’s essential to have your new soft close hinges and screws that fit your cabinet doors. A small bowl for holding screws prevents losing hardware mid-project. Some projects may require wood filler if old holes don’t line up with new hinges. It’s also helpful to have a cloth to clean up any dust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by opening your cabinet door and supporting it so it does not sag while you work. Remove the existing hinge screws with your drill or screwdriver and carefully take off the door. Position the new soft close hinges in place, lining up with preset holes if possible, or marking new ones. Attach the hinges with screws, ensuring they are flush and level. Rehang the door, check for smooth movement, and adjust the hinge screws to fine-tune alignment and closing speed.

From the Toolbox

Last winter, one of our clients in a bustling household called Handydads because daily cabinets slamming kept waking their newborn during nap times. We recommended and installed soft close hinges throughout their kitchen. The transformation was immediate, and their kitchen felt like a brand new space. Even better, the family could finally tiptoe for midnight snacks without waking the little one. Sometimes, it’s the smallest upgrades that make the biggest difference in daily life.

Top 5 Mistakes

Forgetting to check hinge compatibility with your existing cabinets is common. Rushing the door removal can lead to chips or scratches. Not making sure doors are properly aligned will leave you with uneven or rubbing cabinets. Ignoring the manufacturer’s installation instructions for your specific hinge model can cause problems. Lastly, neglecting to test the soft close function before finishing can mean taking everything apart again.

Tool and Material Recommendations

We highly recommend a high-quality cordless drill for both removing old screws and installing new ones. Invest in European style soft close hinges for easy adjustability and quiet performance. Keep a reliable level on hand for precision. If you need to fill old holes, wood filler and a putty knife do the job. Choose cabinet screws that match the finish of your hinges to keep a polished look.

Quick Tips and Hacks

Double check that your measurements line up before drilling any new holes. Mark hinge locations with a pencil for accuracy. Always support cabinet doors while working to avoid straining the hinges or damaging the wood. Install one door at a time so you stay organized. If the soft close action is too strong or weak, most hinges have a built in adjustment screw - tweak until you find the perfect balance.

Need a Hand?

Ready to enjoy a quieter kitchen or need help with other home upgrades? Contact Handydads today for reliable and professional handyman services you can trust. Let us handle your next project.