Cabinet hinges are the most complex pieces of cabinet hardware we sell. Most of the time they’re functional hardware, out of the way and only visible when the cabinets are open. But some cabinet styles utilize hinges that are decorative as well, intended to be visible even when the cabinets are closed. And even amongst cabinet hinge styles that are primarily functional, there are multiple different types, each with a slightly different functionality. To get the full breakdown on the various types of cabinet hinges and which hinge you should consider for your own cabinets, see our cabinet hinges guide. For now, let’s dig into the proper way to install your hinges.

Tools Needed

Here’s a list of the tools you’ll need to install a cabinet hinge:

• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Painter’s tape
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Hot glue

Step-By-Step Guide: How to Install a Cabinet Hinge

Cabinet hinges are a small but important part of the cabinet. Although they may be daunting to look at, installing these hinges are actually quite simple and easy enough to DIY.

Step one: Remove doors from the cabinet

This first step is only necessary if you are replacing the cabinet hinges on an already-installed cabinet. You should unscrew the old hinges from the door and remove the doors from the cabinet. We also recommend filing the old holes with wood putty, sanding and painting the area in order to prepare the doors for the new cabinet hinges.

Step two: Measure and mark the cabinet hinges

Use a pencil and a measuring tape to measure and mark where you want to place the hinges. Depending on the size of the cabinet, you will want anywhere between 2 to 4 hinges. Ensure the distance from the edge of the cabinet is equal for each hinge. If you have more than 2 hinges, make sure the distance between all the hinges is equally spaced as well.

Step three: Place the cabinet hinges

Place the cabinet hinges where you’ve marked on the cabinet and tape it on with painter's tape.

Step four: Screw the cabinet-side of the hinge

Once the cabinet hinge is taped on, drill holes onto the cabinet-side of the hinge. Then, use a screwdriver or a drill to install the screws.

Step five: Put hot glue on the door-side of the hinge

Now put a little bit of hot glue on the other side of the hinge and place the cabinet door against it. Although this is not a necessary step, it does help ensure that you drill into the cabinet doors in the correct place. As a top tip, open and close the cabinet door to make sure it is properly placed, and adjust as necessary until the hot glue cools down.

Step six: Screw the door-side of the hinge

Open the cabinet door, drill the holes, and install the screws on this side of the hinge.

Step seven: Final check

Do a final check to make sure the cabinet doors are working correctly. If you have measured everything and double-checked all measurements, you should now be looking at a perfectly installed cabinet!

Cabinet Hinge Installation Tips

Cabinet hinges are a lot easier to install than they may seem, but here are some of our tips to make sure installation is a smooth process.

Number of Hinges

The number of cabinet hinges you should have depends on the size and weight of the cabinet door. As a general rule, small and light doors less than 40 inches tall will require just two hinges. Anything between 40 to 60 inches will require a third hinge, and anything even larger and heavier will need four hinges.

Placement

Generally, the center of the cabinet hinges should be installed around 2 to 3 inches from the top and bottom of the cabinet door. But keep in mind that this is not a hard and fast rule. The distance from the top and the bottom will also depend on the type of hinge you install and even the type of cabinet door.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Directions

Not all hinges are created equal. There are many different types of hinges, so installation methods can also slightly differ. Take care when reading the manufacturer’s directions, if applicable.

Double Check All Measurements

Double and triple checking all measurements is absolutely critical to installing anything correctly - including cabinet hinges. Check all measurements between the hinges, the distance from the bottom and the top, and the placement on the cabinet door. Even if you are sure you have measured everything correctly - do it again. Fixing a drilled hole will take even more effort than simply re-checking the number on your tape measure.

Bottom Line

Cabinet hinges are an integral part of building cabinetry. They not only help to open and close the cabinet doors, but they can even change the functionality of the cabinet through features like self-closing hinges. Whatever type of hinge you end up choosing, you can rest assured that installing them is quite straightforward. Just make sure to measure everything correctly and follow each step meticulously. By doing so, you’ll have a properly functioning cabinet in no time!