How to Replace the Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Replacing the hardware on kitchen cabinets is perhaps the most inexpensive way to dramatically change the look of a kitchen. Whether the hardware is damaged or outdated, changing the pulls and hinges is a simple, low-cost way to update any kitchen decor. If you cannot afford a major kitchen overhaul, you might be pleasantly surprised by the dramatic impact of simply replacing the cabinet hardware.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• All-purpose cleaner

1. Remove one pull and one set of hinges (if you are replacing the hinges) from a cabinet by using a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold them in place.

2. Select new pulls and hinges for cabinets. Take the old pull and hinges that you removed with you when you shop, so you can purchase new hardware that has screw holes that line up with the old hardware. This prevents you from having to patch and drill holes in cabinets.

3. Remove the remaining old pulls and hinges (if you are replacing the hinges) by loosening the screws that hold them in place.

4. Clean the surface of the cabinet doors with all-purpose cleaner to remove any dirt and grease buildup around the old hardware locations.

5. Install the new hardware using a screwdriver.

Tips & Warnings

• Save the screws that you remove with your old hardware. The screws that are packaged with new cabinet hardware are sometimes not the size you need. If this is the case, you can often use the old screws.
• If your kitchen cabinets have hidden hinges (those that do not show when the cabinet doors are closed), you might choose to only update the pulls.
• If you are replacing the cabinet hinges, make sure you purchase hinges that are the same size and type as your old hinges to ensure that the cabinet doors will open properly.