Welcome to Cabinet Hardware 101 – your go-to guide for all things cabinet hardware.
Over the next few weeks, we will be going over everything you need to know about selecting the perfect hardware for your space. From technical terms to budgeting tips to style choices and how to avoid common mistakes, Cabinet Hardware 101 is here to help you make confident, functional, and stylish decisions. This week we are going to cover common mistakes.
Avoid These Common Cabinet Hardware Mistakes
Welcome to week 5 of our Cabinet Hardware 101 series! Whether you're planning a full renovation or just swapping out old hardware for a quick refresh, it's easy to overlook small details that make a big difference. The truth is hardware is one of the most-used elements in your space, and getting it wrong can affect both function and style.
To help you avoid the most common pitfalls, we’re breaking down the mistakes you don’t want to make and how to get it right the first time.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size or Finish
One of the most common hardware mistakes is picking pieces that are either too large or too small for your cabinets. Hardware should feel proportionate to the cabinet or drawer it’s on. Oversized pulls can overwhelm small drawers, while tiny knobs can look lost on wide cabinet doors.
The finish matters too. Mixing metals can be beautiful when intentional, but clashing finishes can make a space feel disjointed. Take into account nearby fixtures, lighting, and appliances when selecting your finish for a cohesive look.
2. Poor Placement and Alignment
Even the most beautiful hardware will look off if it’s not installed correctly. Misaligned hardware ,especially on double cabinet doors or rows of drawers, draws the eye for all the wrong reasons. It can also make cabinets awkward to open or close.
Hardware should be placed with both form and function in mind. Knobs are typically centered vertically on cabinet doors, while pulls on drawers should be evenly spaced and level. If you’re unsure, use a template or jig to ensure consistent placement across every piece. Remember to always measure at least 2 times before drilling any holes.
3. Skimping on Quality in High-Use Areas
We get that budget matters. But there are areas where it pays to invest, especially when it comes to durability. Kitchens, for example, are high-traffic zones where hardware gets used dozens of times a day. Flimsy materials or poor construction will show wear fast or worse, break completely. In spaces like these, prioritize hardware made from solid metals or high-grade composites. They’ll last longer, feel sturdier, and stand up to daily use with ease.
4. Ignoring Ergonomics and Comfort
How your hardware feels is just as important as how it looks. Sharp edges, awkward angles, or too-small grips can be frustrating (and even painful) over time. The best hardware not only complements your design but it also feels natural in your hand.
Before committing, test a few pieces in person if you can. Open and close a drawer, grab a knob from different angles, and consider how it will feel to use multiple times a day.
5. Overlooking Hardware as a Design Element
Hardware isn’t just functional—it’s a key part of your overall design. Choosing it as an afterthought often leads to mismatches with your cabinetry style, finishes, or overall decor. Instead, think of hardware as jewelry for your cabinets: the finishing touch that ties everything together.
Coordinate styles across rooms, choose finishes that echo other elements in the space, and don’t be afraid to make a statement when the design calls for it.
6. Picking the Wrong Material for the Room
Not all hardware materials perform the same in every environment. One of the most overlooked mistakes is choosing a material that looks great—but isn’t suited to the room’s conditions.
For example, untreated metal finishes like raw iron or uncoated brass can tarnish or corrode in humid spaces like bathrooms. Similarly, lightweight materials may not hold up well in kitchens, where cabinet doors and drawers see frequent, heavy use.
When selecting hardware, think beyond appearance. Bathrooms typically benefit from moisture-resistant finishes like chrome, stainless steel, or powder-coated metals. In kitchens and high-use areas, prioritize sturdier materials that won’t chip, bend, or wear down quickly.
We also don’t recommend using hardware that is hard to clean, like birdcage knobs and pulls, in areas like the kitchen where they are more likely to get grimy.
7. Choosing What Others Want and not What You Love
One of the biggest mistakes people make is selecting hardware based on trends or what they think will please others, rather than what they genuinely like. While it’s great to gather inspiration and consider resale value, your home should reflect your personal style and how you live in the space.
Hardware is something you’ll see and use every day and we want to make sure it makes you happy. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to go against the grain if it feels right for your space.
Bonus Tip: Know Your Cabinet Type
Not all cabinets are the same, and your hardware needs to work with the specific construction. For example, inset cabinet doors may require a different hinge type than overlay doors. Always check compatibility before purchasing, especially for hinges and specialty hardware.
Cabinet hardware may be a small detail, but it's one you'll interact with every day. Taking a few extra steps to choose the right size, style, and placement will make your space feel more polished, functional, and finished.