Cabinet Hinges

Aged Brass 2" Butt Hinge (pair), from our current range.

What is a cabinet hinge?

A cabinet hinge is simply a smaller-scale version of a standard butt hinge, sized to suit the lighter doors used on kitchens, wardrobes and other furniture rather than full-size internal or external doors. The same recessed, flush-fitting principle applies, just at a proportionally smaller size, with 2" hinges being a common size for cabinet and furniture doors.

Many cabinet hinges are also available as soft close versions, with a built-in mechanism that slows the door gently in the last part of its travel rather than letting it swing shut freely, now the standard specification on most new kitchens.

Where cabinet hinges are used

• Kitchen cabinets – the most common application, often specified as soft close on new kitchens
• Wardrobes and bedroom furniture – used in the same way as kitchen cabinetry
• Freestanding and fitted furniture – smaller cabinet-scale hinges suit lighter furniture doors generally

Choosing the right cabinet hinge

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Size – smaller than standard door hinges, commonly 2"; match to your door's weight and existing recess if replacing
• Soft close or standard – soft close hinges add a smoother, quieter closing action, now expected on most new kitchen fittings
• Overlay type – some cabinet hinge styles are specific to full overlay, half overlay or inset door configurations
• Finish – see our Hardware Finishes Guide to match cabinet knobs and handles

Related products

Browse our current range via Cabinet Furniture Hinges, or see the related Cabinet & Furniture Hardware Guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need soft close hinges on a new kitchen?

They are not compulsory, but soft close hinges are now the standard expectation on most new kitchen installations, since they reduce noise and wear on both the hinge and the cabinet.

Can I upgrade existing cabinet hinges to soft close?

In many cases yes, provided the replacement hinge matches the existing overlay type and cup size, though it is worth checking compatibility before ordering.

What size cabinet hinge do I need?

This depends on your door and cabinet construction; 2" is a common size for smaller cabinet doors, but it is worth measuring your existing hinge or door before ordering a replacement.

Back to the Hinges & Door Control Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.