Updating cabinet hardware - knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides - is a fast, affordable way to refresh kitchens and bathrooms. Prioritize durable materials (stainless steel, brass), choose finishes that coordinate with fixtures, and account for function with soft-close and ergonomic designs. Measure existing hole spacing, use a template for installation, and buy from manufacturers, specialty stores, or retailers. Small changes can improve both appearance and daily usability.
Update your kitchen or bathroom with new hardware
Cabinet hardware is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to refresh a kitchen or bathroom. Changing knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides alters both the look and function of your cabinetry with minimal disruption.
Materials and finishes: match style and durability
Choose materials for both appearance and performance. Stainless steel and solid brass resist corrosion and wear. Zinc and aluminum offer lower cost and a wide palette of finishes.
Popular finishes today include satin nickel, brushed brass, matte black, and polished chrome. Consider how hardware will coordinate with faucets, lighting, and appliances. Mixing two complementary finishes - for example, matte black pulls with brass accents - remains a common design approach when done intentionally.
Functional considerations: hinges, slides, and ergonomics
Function matters as much as style. Soft-close hinges and undermount soft-close drawer slides are widely used to reduce wear and noise. Choose pulls and knobs that feel comfortable in hand and suit how you use the cabinet (for example, long bar pulls on drawers vs. small knobs on doors).
Pay attention to backplates (escutcheons) where they're needed for worn doors or where a decorative transition is desired. For high-use areas, opt for hardware with sturdy mounting and longer screws to ensure a solid hold.
Sizing and installation basics
Measure existing hole spacing (center-to-center) before you buy replacement hardware. Standard pulls commonly use 3-inch (76 mm) or 3.75-inch (96 mm) spacing, but many sizes exist. Use a drilling template for new holes and check screw length - the thickness of the door or drawer front determines how long the fastener should be.
Most homeowners can install knobs and pulls with a few basic tools: tape measure, drill with a suitable bit, screwdriver, and a template or jig. Hinges and drawer slides may require more precise alignment; follow manufacturer instructions for best results.
Where to buy and sustainability
Buy direct from manufacturers, specialty hardware stores, home improvement retailers, or online marketplaces. Many suppliers now disclose material sourcing and offer finishes with low-VOC coatings. If sustainability matters, look for durable metals and hardware designed to be serviceable rather than disposable.
Trends and small upgrades that make a difference
Current design trends favor mixed finishes, matte black, and warm brushed metals, while durable finishes that hide fingerprints remain practical choices. Small changes - replacing a set of knobs, adding modern hinges, or swapping drawer slides for soft-close versions - can refresh the room and improve daily use.
Final tip
When in doubt, order one or two samples before committing to a full set. Hardware can look different in your lighting and against your cabinet color, and testing saves returns and frustration.