February 16, 2025
How To Install Soft Close Hinges In Your Wardrobe: A Step-By-Step Guide

How To Install Soft Close Hinges In Your Wardrobe: A Step-By-Step Guide

When it comes to enhancing the functionality and longevity of your wardrobe, upgrading to soft-close hinges is a smart move. Soft close wardrobe hinges provide a smooth, quiet closing action, preventing the doors from slamming and reducing wear and tear over time. This simple yet effective upgrade is not only a great way to boost your wardrobe’s usability but also adds an element of sophistication to your space. If you’re looking to install soft close wardrobe hinges yourself, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

What Are Soft Close Wardrobe Hinges?

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to understand what soft close wardrobe hinges are. These specialized hinges are designed with a built-in mechanism that slows down the door as it closes, ensuring it doesn’t slam. This mechanism uses hydraulic or pneumatic technology to absorb the force of the door’s movement, gently guiding it to a soft close. Soft close hinges are often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and wardrobes for a more refined and quieter operation.

Benefits Of Soft Close Wardrobe Hinges

Before we get into the installation process, let’s take a moment to consider why you should install soft close hinges in your wardrobe:

  • Noise Reduction: Soft close hinges ensure that the doors close quietly, which is especially beneficial in shared living spaces.
  • Increased Durability: The gentle closure mechanism reduces stress on the hinges and the wardrobe structure, leading to longer-lasting furniture.
  • Enhanced User Experience: These hinges provide a smoother, more controlled closing action, which can be particularly useful in homes with children or elderly individuals.
  • Aesthetics: Soft-close hinges contribute to a more luxurious feel in your space, elevating the overall look of your wardrobe.

Tools And Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials to ensure a smooth installation process:

  • Soft close wardrobe hinges (make sure to choose the right size and style for your wardrobe)
  • Screwdriver
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • Drill with drill bits
  • Wood screws
  • Clamps (optional)
  • Wood glue (optional)
  • Level

Having everything on hand will make the process more efficient and prevent unnecessary delays.

Remove The Existing Hinges

If you’re replacing old hinges with soft close wardrobe hinges, start by removing the existing hinges. This can be done by unscrewing the screws that hold the hinge in place using a screwdriver. Once the screws are removed, gently pull the door off the wardrobe frame. If necessary, use a utility knife to carefully score any adhesive or paint around the hinge area before removing the door.

Take note of the current placement of the hinges as this will guide you when installing the new soft close hinges.

Position The Soft Close Hinges

Now, take the new soft close hinges and position them where the old hinges were located. Soft close hinges typically have two parts: one that attaches to the wardrobe frame and one that attaches to the door. Check the hinge packaging for specific instructions on how to align the two components.

To ensure proper alignment:

  • Mark the hinge locations on both the door and the frame using a pencil.
  • Measure carefully to ensure the hinges are at the correct height and distance from the edges of the door.
  • If the soft close hinges come with adjustable features, such as the ability to move the hinge closer or further from the edge, adjust the hinges as needed to get the best fit.

Drill The Hinge Holes

Once the hinges are positioned correctly, it’s time to drill holes for the screws. Use a measuring tape to mark the exact location of the holes on both the door and the wardrobe frame. It’s essential to make sure the holes are straight to ensure the hinges function smoothly.

When drilling the holes:

  • Select the correct size drill bit based on the screws provided with the soft close hinges.
  • Drill slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the wood.
  • Use a level to ensure that both the door and the frame are aligned correctly during the drilling process.

Attach The Hinges To The Door And Frame

After drilling the holes, align the hinge plate on the door with the holes you’ve just drilled. Using a screwdriver, attach the hinge to the door with the screws provided. Repeat this step for the second hinge on the other side of the door.

Once the hinges are securely fastened to the door, position the corresponding part of the hinge on the wardrobe frame. Again, align the screw holes and use the screwdriver to attach the hinge to the frame.

Adjust The Hinges

Once the hinges are attached, you’ll likely need to make some fine adjustments to ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly. Most soft close wardrobe hinges come with adjustable features that allow you to fine-tune the door’s position.

To adjust the hinges:

  • Inward or Outward Adjustment: Some hinges have an adjustment screw that allows you to move the door slightly in or out. This helps achieve the perfect alignment with the wardrobe frame.
  • Height Adjustment: You can also adjust the height of the door by turning the screws on the hinge, ensuring that the door is aligned properly when closed.
  • Soft Close Mechanism Adjustment: Some soft close hinges allow you to adjust the strength of the soft close action. If you find the door closing too quickly or too slowly, tweak this setting until you achieve the desired result.

Test The Door

After making all the necessary adjustments, test the door to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly. Open the door fully and allow it to close on its own, watching how the soft close mechanism works. The door should close slowly and silently without slamming.

If the door doesn’t close as expected, double-check the hinge adjustments and make any necessary tweaks.

Final Checks And Installation Of Additional Doors

If you’re installing soft-close hinges on multiple doors, repeat the process for each door. Be sure to test each one individually to ensure the hinges are working correctly.

Once all doors are installed and adjusted, take a step back and check the overall appearance of your wardrobe. Ensure that all doors are aligned, and the soft close mechanism is functioning properly across all doors.

Conclusion

Installing soft close wardrobe hinges is a simple DIY project that offers immediate benefits in terms of convenience, durability, and aesthetic appeal. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily upgrade your wardrobe, ensuring that it functions smoothly and quietly for years to come. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you’ll be able to install soft close wardrobe hinges with confidence, adding both functionality and elegance to your space.

Resource URL:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kitchen_cabinet

https://edgebands.in/product/2d-slow-motion-hinges-2/

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