Using Cabinet Catches and Latches

If you have cabinet doors that always seem to stay slightly ajar, or you have cabinets that you want to keep tightly shut against pets or small children, invest in some cabinet catches or latches. Catches help to snap your cabinet shut and keep it there, either with a magnetic latch that pulls and seals the door tightly shut, or a roller catch that includes a small knob or latch you twist or turn to open the cabinet back up again.

Used properly catches and latches accomplish two things in your kitchen:

• They help doors stay shut until you open them
• They help add a little decorative accent and charm to some types of cabinets

If your cabinets are older and no longer shut properly, a magnetic catch can be the answer to cabinet doors that always seem to be ajar. They install discreetly on the inside of the door and frame; they aren’t seen when the doors are shut, so there’s no worry that they won’t match the rest of the cabinet decor.

Roller latches answer the same problem, but help hold the door shut a little tighter. This is a nice option for families that have pets or small children that are constantly opening the doors; the roller latch won’t lock the door, it just holds it firmly shut until enough pressure is applied to open it.

Knobs and latches also address the same issues as other catches, but have the added benefit of being visible. While this style of latch doesn’t work in all kitchens, it adds some Country or Shabby Chic charm to a number of different styles of kitchen. Because this hardware is visible, be sure to match the finish and style to the rest of the cabinet hardware to get the most cohesive look in the space.