How to Install Self-Closing Cabinet Door Hinges

There are many different kinds of cabinet door hinges. Your cabinet door can open and close with an inlay hinge, a reverse hinge, and an outside wrap-around hinge. A self-closing cabinet door hinge is used in the kitchen to keep the cabinet doors closed. This hinge is designed to pull the door shut after it has been opened and then released.

These hinges are available in most hardware stores for people who want to change their hinges, or are installing brand new cabinets. Installing the self-closing cabinet door hinges is a very easy project and can be done in less than 30 minutes.

Step 1 - Remove Cabinet Door

Using your electric screwdriver, remove the cabinet door from the cabinet face. Remove the door by unscrewing the hinge point on the cabinet face. Once the door is removed, you can remove the cabinet door hinges from the door itself. Don't be afraid to ask someone help you take down the cabinet door if it's bulky or located up high in the kitchen.

Step 2 - Clean Door

As you are changing the cabinet door hinges, it is also a good time to clean the door itself. Use some spray cleaner and spray it on the door. Wipe it off with a towel to remove all the dirt, grease, and other grime that gets built up while in the kitchen.

Step 3 - Line Up New Hinges

Use a piece of wood about 2 inches wide and place it on the top of the cabinet door. Draw a light line on the door where the wood sits. Repeat this process on the bottom of the door. This will give you perfect placement of your hinges. Set the block of wood along the edge of the door where the hinges will be placed and connect the marks along the wood.

Step 4 - Lay Hinges on Door

Pick up one of the hinges and lay it on the marks on the top of the cabinet door. Make sure it is flush with the edge of the door and lined up with the marks. Make a mark where the screw holes are. Repeat with the bottom hinge.

Step 5 - Drill Holes

Hold your cordless drill straight and drill in the pilot holes for the screws. Be careful you do not drill all the way through the door. Only drill in about 1/2 inch.

Step 6 - Install Hinges

Attach the hinges to the cabinet door with the electric screwdriver.

Step 7 - Install Cabinet Door to Cabinet Face

Once the cabinet door hinges are attached to the door, the process of putting it on the cabinet face is very straightforward. Lift the door to the opening and set a level on the top of it. Move the door around until it is level and then set a screw into the hole of the top hinge. Screw it in with the screwdriver. Screw one into the bottom hinge and then complete securing the door.

Check the door to make sure it is opening and closing the way it should and make any adjustments if needed.