Cabinet Catches & Latches

Black Magnetic Catch 6kg Pull, from our current range.

What is a cabinet catch or latch?

A cabinet catch, or latch, is a fitting that holds a cabinet or cupboard door closed without needing a handle to pull against, releasing with a light push or pull on the door itself. The most common type is the magnetic catch, a small magnet and steel plate fitted inside the cabinet that holds the door shut until pulled open. Mechanical touch-latches work on a similar push-to-open, push-to-close principle without a magnet.

Catches are particularly useful on handleless or minimalist cabinetry, and on cupboards where a knob or handle is not wanted, but a door still needs to stay reliably closed.

Where cabinet catches and latches are used

• Handleless cabinetry – catches allow a door to be held shut and then pushed open, without any external handle
• Cupboards and utility furniture – a simple, low-cost way to keep a door closed on furniture that does not need a lockable latch
• Alongside finger pulls – often paired with a finger pull for a fully handle-free door that still stays firmly shut

Choosing the right catch

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Pull strength – magnetic catches are rated by the weight or force needed to release them; heavier doors need a stronger catch
• Catch type – magnetic catches are simple and reliable; touch-latch mechanisms suit a fully handle-free look but add moving parts
• Positioning – catches need to be fitted accurately so the door sits flush when closed

Related products

Browse our current range of Latches & Turns, or see the related Finger Pulls guide.

Frequently asked questions

What strength magnetic catch do I need?

This depends on the weight of the door; heavier doors need a stronger pull rating to hold reliably, while lighter cupboard doors can use a lower strength catch.

Do magnetic catches wear out over time?

Magnets themselves rarely weaken significantly, but the fixing screws or the striker plate can loosen with repeated use, which is usually an easy fix by re-tightening or repositioning.

Can I fit a catch to an existing handleless door?

Yes, provided there is room inside the cabinet to fit the catch and a corresponding plate on the door, most catches can be retrofitted without major alteration.

Back to the Cabinet & Furniture Hardware Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.