How to Choose Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware covers knobs, pulls, hinges, slides and locks that finish a cabinet opening. Specifying the right piece means matching function, mounting (including center-to-center on pulls), finish, and — for locks — keying or core format.

Step 1: Pick the hardware type

• Knobs — single mounting point for doors and small drawers.
• Bar & wire pulls — two-hole grips; confirm CTC.
• Cup / bin pulls — finger-cup profiles for drawers.
• Appliance pulls — oversized grips for refrigerators and built-ins.
• Edge & finger pulls — recessed for handleless faces.
• Hinges — concealed European, soft-close and overlay.
• Drawer slides — undermount, side-mount and soft-close.
• Cabinet locks — cam, deadbolt, latch, keyed and push-button.

See the types guide for a side-by-side comparison.

Step 2: Confirm center-to-center (CTC) on pulls

CTC is the spacing between screw holes. Measure existing hardware before replacements, or choose the Length / Center to Center option that matches your template. Diameter and hole spacing options on knobs and back plates should match the door or drawer prep.

Step 3: Soft close when noise matters

Soft-close hinges and slides control the last portion of travel. Spec soft-close for residential kitchens, hotel rooms and any cabinet where slam is unacceptable.

Step 4: Lock function and keying

Pick cam, deadbolt or latch by how the bolt engages the frame. For facilities that share Best or Schlage cores, use IC core bodies (for example Olympus drawer deadbolts). Confirm Keying and core options on the product page.

Step 5: Match finish

Align knobs, pulls, hinges and lock finishes across the elevation. Common shop filters include stainless, satin nickel, matte black and brass/bronze families. BHMA / US finish codes are explained in the finish guide.