Cabinet Door Latches
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We often focus on big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, and appliances when designing and furnishing a kitchen. However, the more minor details like cabinet door latches are just as important for creating a beautiful space that is also functional and practical. I’m sharing the different types of cupboard door latches & catches, the pros and cons, if they are trendy or timeless, and how to choose the right one for your kitchen or space with cabinetry.
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
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Types of Cabinet Door Latches
You can select from various latches depending on your needs and preferences. Some of the most popular choices are listed below:
- Magnetic lock: To keep cabinet doors closed, these latches use magnets. They don’t need additional hardware to install and are simple. If you want your kitchen to have a modern, clean design, magnetic latches are a good choice.
- Roller catch: These catches keep the cabinet doors closed using a spring-loaded roller. They are an excellent choice for a low-profile latch because they are simple to install.
- Push catch: These catches use a spring-loaded button to keep cabinet doors closed. They are a good choice if you want a latch that is simple to operate and is simple to install.
- Touch lock: These latches open the cabinet doors with a push mechanism. They are a fantastic choice if you want a latch that is simple to operate and doesn’t require any hardware because they look great in modern and minimalist kitchens.
- Turn or butterfly latch: The cabinet door is opened and closed by turning this type of latch. Although more challenging to install, these are popular in kitchen and laundry room design.
- Flush Catch: These catches are made to keep cabinet doors fastened together. They are installed on the front of cabinets and open and close by turning the knob on the latch.
A terrific way to add more detail and elevate your space is to use a mix of pulls, knobs, and latches in your kitchen.
Flush Cupboard Door Catch
You’ve probably seen flush catches in trendy kitchen and laundry room designs, so you may be here trying to decide if this style of latches is the correct choice for your cupboard door! A cupboard latch is perfect for larger doors in your house’s kitchen, pantry, and other rooms because of its traditional, vintage-inspired latch design.
A form of cabinet hardware called a cabinet latch or a flush catch is made to keep cabinet doors fastened together. This style of latch includes a bolt, a base, a latch arm, and a strike plate or a catch and is installed on the front of a cabinet door.
The way these are installed depends on the style of cabinet you have. If you have full overlay cabinets, the main component of the latch is mounted on one door, with the catch on the other door. If you have inset cabinets, the main component is mounted on the door with the catch on the frame.
Keywords to Search when Shopping
Shopping for cupboard latches can be confusing since retailers use various names for cabinet latches. A few of my favourites include Rejuvenation, Emtek, Nostalgia Warehouse, and small businesses on Etsy. To make your search a little easier, try searching some of the following names to get this style of cabinet latch:
- Oval Cupboard Latch
- Cabinet latch
- Flush cabinet door catch
- Flush Catch
- Metal Surface Bolt
Want to learn more about cabinet hardware and unlacquered brass? Read more here.
Are cupboard cabinet latches trendy or timeless?
Cupboard latches are widely used and considered a traditional design element. However, they have a vintage vibe that can provide a kitchen charm and personality.
Despite this, the popularity of cupboard latches may change based on the current styles and design trends. But because of their timeless and classic design, they are less likely to go out of style and can remain a stylish choice for many years.
Benefits of Latches
For several reasons, cabinet door latches can be essential to any kitchen. Here are a few advantages:
1. Safety: Cabinet door locks can prevent kids from accessing potentially dangerous objects like cleaning supplies and sharp knives.
2. Organisation: Latches can assist in organizing cabinets and stop objects from tumbling out or becoming misplaced.
3. Aesthetics: Latches can compliment your overall design and offer a stylish touch to your kitchen.
The downfall of Latches
In contrast, there are many reasons why cabinet latches may not work in your home.
1. Installation may be challenging: Depending on the latch type you select, installation may be challenging, mainly if you are inexperienced with DIY projects.
2. Upkeep and Repair: Latches can deteriorate or break over time, making them challenging to operate or inefficient at keeping cabinet doors shut.
3. Limited access It may be challenging to quickly get to the contents of your cabinets with specific latches. For instance, it can be annoying when a turn or butterfly latch takes a few extra seconds to open and close.
DESIGN TIP: If you love the look of cabinet latches but are worried about them being annoying to use daily, I recommend using them on cabinets you access less frequently.
Would I install them again?
Yes! I love the timeless look of my unlacquered brass cabinet latches that I installed on some of my kitchen cupboards. The style on my kitchen cupboard doors is a flush catch; however, they can be annoying! I would not recommend installing them on frequently used cabinets, like your day-to-day dishes. In my kitchen, I have it on my sink cabinet, fridge cabinets, and countertop cabinet.
Also, it is essential to consider how you open your cabinet doors with cabinet latches. For example, if you picture 2 cabinet doors with knobs, it is effortless to open the doors using the knobs. However, if you have full overlay cabinets (such as in my kitchen) with a cabinet latch, you can use the turn knob to open the first door, but there isn’t a knob on the second. This can be frustrating and is one of the reasons I don’t recommend using them on doors that get a high amount of traffic! If you have inset cabinets, this isn’t an issue!
Choosing the Right Cabinet Door Latch
When choosing cabinet door hardware, there are several factors to consider, such as the style of your kitchen, the type of cabinets you have, and your preferences. Here are some tips to help you choose the right latch:
- Consider the style of your kitchen: Choose a latch that complements the overall style of your kitchen. For example, a classic latch with a brass finish might be a good option if you have a traditional kitchen.
- Consider the type of cabinets you have: Make sure the latch you choose is compatible with your cabinets. For example, installation and use vary from full overlay to inset cabinets.
- Consider your personal preferences: Choose a latch that you like, and that works well for your needs.
Although cabinet door latches may seem small, they create a stunning yet practical and efficient kitchen. By selecting the correct latch, you may enhance your kitchen’s organization, safety, and appearance. Make sure the latch you use, whether a butterfly latch, touch latch, roller catch, push latch, or magnetic latch, blends in with your overall design and serves your needs.
FAQs
Yes, cabinet latches are functional and practical in a kitchen or other spaces with cabinets. However, they can be annoying if used on frequently used cabinets such as the cabinet where you keep dishes.
Cabinet latches work by securing the door in place with a latch mechanism. When the door is closed, the latch mechanism snaps into place, keeping the door securely shut. To open the door, you push or turn the latch mechanism to release the door.
Cabinet latches have been around for a long time and can be considered a classic design element. While they may be trendy in design now, they will continue to be used in design for a long time due to them being classic.
I’m trying to find more about the bench/banquette- is it built in or purchased?
Hi Ellen, I had someone local make it for me, more details can be found here https://emmacourtneyhome.com/why-i-chose-a-breakfast-nook-over-a-peninsula/