Cabinet hardware often gets overlooked, but it plays a big role in your kitchen. The right knobs, pulls, and latches can change the entire look of your cabinets, and even your kitchen aesthetic. It’s not just about appearance either—these small pieces of hardware affect the way you interact with your kitchen every day.In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of cabinet hardware, and help you make decisions on sizing, materials, and finishing options for your custom cabinets. We’ll cover everything you need to know to choose the perfect hardware that suits both your practical needs and personal taste.
Types of Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet hardware falls into three categories, each offering a distinct function and aesthetic.
- Knobs, often round or square, attach with a single screw and work best on cabinet doors due to their smaller size.
- Pulls offer more grip with two points of attachment and are ideal for drawers, though they can also be used on doors for a cohesive look.
- Latches, with their locking mechanism, add a vintage touch and are useful for keeping cabinets securely closed.
Now that you understand the different hardware types, let’s examine how to choose the best options for your kitchen step by step.
- Consider Functionality First
When selecting cabinet hardware, comfort and practicality should come first. You’ll be using these knobs, pulls, or latches multiple times a day, so they need to feel good in your hand. If your hardware is uncomfortable to use, you’ll notice quickly.
Intricate designs may look appealing, but they can be tricky to clean. Dust, grime, and kitchen grease can easily accumulate in detailed grooves. Keep this in mind, especially if you’re someone who values low-maintenance options.
To further help you out, we’ve prepared a quick guide on the best use cases for different types of cabinet hardware:
Knobs
Knobs are a solid choice for smaller cabinets or drawers, especially if you want something simple and straightforward. They’re usually the more affordable option, which is a nice bonus if you’re outfitting an entire kitchen. However, they can be a bit tricky for some people, particularly those with arthritis or hand mobility issues since they require more precise finger movements to grip and pull.
On the plus side, knobs are super easy to swap out. Since they only need one hole, you can change them out without worrying about complicated drilling or repairs. You’ll often see knobs on cabinet doors, but they can work for smaller drawers too if you’re going for a minimalist look.
Pulls
If you’re dealing with larger drawers or cabinets that get a lot of use, pulls are the way to go. They give you more room to grab and are easier on your hands, especially when you’re dealing with heavier drawers. While they tend to cost a bit more than knobs, they’re definitely worth it if you want something that’s comfortable and practical for everyday use.
One thing to keep in mind: replacing pulls can be a little more complicated if the new ones don’t match the hole placement of the old ones. You might have to do a little touch-up work or refinishing, but it’s not the end of the world. Pulls are super versatile and look great on both doors and drawers, which helps create a cohesive look throughout your kitchen.
Latches
Cabinet latches are less common but can be really useful in certain situations. They’re great for cabinets that don’t get opened often or if you want a little extra security for something like a pantry. They do take an extra step to open, so they’re not the most convenient for everyday use, but they add a nice, old-school touch that works perfectly in vintage or farmhouse-style kitchens.
Installing and replacing latches can be a bit of a project since they need to be aligned just right to work properly, but they’re a fun choice if you want something a little different for your space. Latches bring both function and charm, making them a nice option if you’re after a more classic, homey feel.
- Size and Proportion Matters
Getting the sizing and proportions right helps to ensure both practical use and visual harmony of your cabinet hardware. Too small, and they might look out of place or be hard to use. Too large, and they can overwhelm the space.
For small drawers or cabinets, a smaller knob or pull is usually the best choice. A knob around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter works well for these, keeping things balanced and easy to open. Larger drawers or wider cabinet doors, however, require hardware that’s more substantial. A good guideline is that the pull length should be about one-third the width of the drawer. For a standard 18-inch drawer, aim for a pull that’s around 6 inches long.
If you’re going for a contemporary look, consider using long pulls—around 9 inches or more—which can provide sleek, modern lines. For a more transitional or traditional design, pulls that range from 5 to 7 inches offer a classic, balanced feel.
Most latches are compact, but they should still be large enough to operate easily without being too dominant on the door. Smaller latches work best on narrow or compact doors, while larger latches provide a more functional grip for wider doors or pantry-style cabinets.
- Select Material and Finishing Options
Once you’ve nailed functionality and sizing, it’s time to explore materials and finishes—this is where you can really personalize your space. The material you choose for your hardware should not only match your design preferences but also complement your kitchen cabinet materials, for a cohesive look.
Different hardware materials offer different advantages, especially when it comes to cleaning and longevity. Let’s break down some popular options:
- Brass. Durable with a natural antimicrobial finish, brass is a solid choice for high-use kitchens.
- Stainless Steel. Sleek, modern, and easy to clean, stainless steel fits perfectly in contemporary kitchens and resists wear and tear.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze. Adds warmth and a rustic, aged look, making it a great fit for farmhouse or traditional kitchens as it develops a patina over time.
- Glass and Ceramic. These materials bring a decorative touch to vintage or eclectic designs, though they require a bit more care to maintain their shine.
After selecting the material, the finish is what sets the tone of your kitchen. Polished chrome is a standout in modern kitchens with its reflective surface, while brushed nickel offers a softer, more understated appeal for transitional designs. For something bold, matte black creates striking contrast, especially on lighter cabinets. If you’re going for a classic look, antique brass lends a vintage charm to traditional kitchens.
- Determine the Correct Placement
The next step is figuring out the proper placement of your kitchen cabinet hardware. There are some basic guidelines, but you can tweak them to fit your style.
Pulls are generally installed horizontally on drawers and vertically on doors. This setup keeps things functional and balanced, making it easy to open and close drawers and cabinets.
Knobs are typically placed about 2.5 to 3 inches from the top corner of cabinet doors. This provides a comfortable grip and looks proportional. On drawers, knobs are generally centered for symmetry, but you can adjust the positioning depending on the drawer’s size and design.
As for cabinet latches, place them near the top or bottom corners of the door for ease of access. Latches require precise placement to function properly, so take extra care when installing them.
To ensure the placement works, use painter’s tape to temporarily attach the hardware before drilling any holes. This trick allows you to step back and assess whether everything looks balanced and feels comfortable when in use. You can test out different heights, placements, and combinations until you find what works best.
- Mix and Match Hardware
You might want to get creative by mixing and matching your hardware. Done right, combining knobs, pulls, and latches can add more personality to your kitchen. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use knobs for cabinet doors and pulls for drawers. Pulls offer a better grip for heavier drawers, while knobs work well for lighter cabinet doors.
- Incorporate latches on special cabinets. Latches work well on pantry doors or cabinets with less frequent use. They add a rustic feel while giving you more security for specific areas.
- Keep finishes consistent. Stick to a single finish, like brushed nickel or matte black, across all hardware types. This ensures your knobs, pulls, and latches look cohesive rather than disjointed.
- Complement the styles. Choose hardware from the same design family—like all modern or all traditional—to keep the look unified. Avoid pairing drastically different styles, like mixing ornate vintage latches with minimalist pulls.
- Vary pull sizes. Larger drawers can handle longer pulls, while shorter pulls work better on smaller drawers. This adds subtle variety without looking chaotic.
Get Expert Help with Your Cabinet Hardware Choices
Cabinet hardware often becomes an afterthought in kitchen or bathroom remodeling projects, but here at Seattle Cabinets, we believe every detail should feel intentional. We’re passionate about creating spaces that don’t just look good but also work beautifully for you—and that includes getting your cabinet hardware right. If this information feels rather overwhelming to you, we’re here to help. Contact us today, and let’s collaborate on a kitchen that’s thoughtfully designed and crafted around how you live. We’ll give you a free estimate and answer any questions you might have!
