How to Repair Hinges in Cabinets

After several years of use, you may need to repair your cabinet hinges. Cabinets that are low enough for small children to pull and hang on are at greater risk for becoming loose. If the hinges get too loose, your cabinet doors will not close properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Level

1. Loosen the mounting screws. Mounting screws are the small screws on the hinge plate directly above and below the hinge. Loosen the screws just enough so the door can move, but does not sag or fall off of the cabinet.

2. Hold the door so that it remains level with the cabinet. You may need help from someone else to hold the door so it remains at a level angle. If you don't have a helper, hold a level in front of the door to ensure it stays straight.

3. Tighten the screws. Holding the door securely with one hand, or with your helper, retighten the screws on the hinge. This small adjustment should repair any loose cabinet doors.

Tips & Warnings

• If retightening your hinges still doesn't work, try a cabinet friction catch. A friction catch has two components: a roller ball and a catch. You install the roller ball in the cabinet and screw the catch into the upper outer corner of the cabinet door. When you shut the door, the catch grabs the roller ball, keeping the door closed.