Choosing the right knobs and handles for your cabinets might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference. Good cabinet hardware is not only about looks; it also needs to work well for daily use.
Many people make simple mistakes when choosing their cabinet knobs and handles. These mistakes can leave them with hardware that doesn’t match the style of their room, is uncomfortable to use, or doesn’t last as long as it should.
In this article, we’ll go over five common mistakes and how you can avoid them to find the perfect knobs and handles for your cabinets.
So, let’s get in!
Mistake 1: Ignoring Functionality
Some people get so excited about the look of a cabinet knob or handle that they forget about how it feels to use it. While looks are important, knobs and handles that are hard to grip or awkward to use can be frustrating over time.
Why it’s a problem?
Imagine trying to open a drawer every day, but the knob is too small to hold, or the handle has sharp edges that hurt your fingers. You might also find that certain finishes, like shiny metal, show fingerprints easily, which can be annoying, especially in a kitchen.
How to avoid it?
When picking out knobs and handles, try them out if you can. Hold them in your hand and think about how comfortable they feel. Also, think about where they will be used. For example, kitchen cabinets need hardware that is easy to grip and clean because they get used often. Don’t just choose based on looks—make sure they’ll be comfortable and easy to use, too.
Mistake 2: Choosing the Wrong Size
Sometimes, people don’t think about the size of the knob or handle in relation to their cabinet doors and drawers. If the knob or handle is too big, it can look bulky. If it’s too small, it can look strange and be harder to hold.
Why it’s a problem?
Mismatched sizes can make the cabinet look unbalanced. Large handles on small cabinets or tiny knobs on big drawers can throw off the design of your room. Also, handles that are too small might make it harder to pull open the cabinet.
How to avoid it?
Measure your cabinet doors and drawers before you buy knobs and handles. Choose a size that matches your cabinets. For example, wider drawers often look better with a longer handle, while smaller drawers might look better with a smaller knob or handle.
Many stores allow you to buy just one or two pieces first, so you can try them out at home before buying more.
Mistake 3: Overlooking the Material and Finish
The material and finish of a knob or handle affect both how it looks and how long it will last. Some people choose a material or finish just because they like how it looks, without thinking about how it will wear over time.
Why it’s a problem?
Some materials and finishes don’t match well with other parts of the room, like faucets, appliances, or light fixtures. Also, some finishes, like brass or chrome, may show smudges or scratches more easily than others, especially in areas like the kitchen or bathroom, where they get a lot of use.
How to avoid it?
Look around your room and note the finishes you already have, like the color of your faucets or appliances. Try to pick knobs and handles that match or blend well with these finishes.
For example, if you have stainless steel appliances, stainless steel or brushed nickel hardware can create a balanced look. Also, think about durability; a finish that resists fingerprints and water spots might work best in kitchens and bathrooms.
Mistake 4: Forgetting to Match the Overall Style
Every room has a style, whether it’s modern, traditional, rustic, or something else. Choosing hardware that doesn’t fit the style of your room can make the cabinets look out of place.
Why it’s a problem?
Imagine a modern kitchen with sleek, simple cabinets but with old-fashioned, ornate knobs. The mismatched look can take away from the room’s style, making it feel less cohesive.
How to avoid it?
Think about the style of your room before you pick out knobs and handles. If your home has a modern style, look for simple, clean designs in materials like stainless steel or matte black. If you have a more rustic look, consider bronze or wood knobs with some texture. The hardware should enhance your room’s style, not take away from it.
Mistake 5: Failing to Consider Installation and Placement
Sometimes, people choose knobs and handles without thinking about where they will be placed on the cabinets. Poor placement can make the hardware hard to reach or look uneven.
Why it’s a problem?
Misaligned hardware or handles placed at the wrong height can look sloppy and might even make the cabinet hard to use. Placing handles too close together can also make opening larger drawers awkward.
How to avoid it?
Before you install the hardware, take some time to plan the placement. Use a ruler or a template to measure where each piece will go.
You can even tape the hardware temporarily on the cabinet knobs to see how it looks. This step will help make sure that each knob and handle is aligned and spaced evenly.
Conclusion
Selecting cabinet knobs and handles may seem like a little choice, but it may have a significant effect on how your room feels and looks. You can choose hardware that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also simple and comfortable to operate by avoiding these typical blunders.
For the best decision, keep in mind to consider utility, size, material, style, and placement. You may locate knobs and handles that enhance the aesthetics and worth of your cabinets for many years with a little preparation.
