Types of Soft Close Cabinet Hardware: Best Soft Close Cabinet Hardware
Choosing the right soft close hardware can significantly improve the longevity and user experience of your cabinets. Different mechanisms offer varying levels of functionality, durability, and cost, making careful consideration crucial for any project. This section details the primary types of soft close hardware, their applications, and installation.
Soft Close Hinges
Soft close hinges incorporate a hydraulic damper directly into the hinge itself. This damper slows the door’s closing motion, preventing slams and ensuring a quiet, controlled close. They are readily available in various sizes and styles to accommodate different cabinet door thicknesses and applications. These hinges are a popular choice for kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and other areas where quiet operation is desired. They typically offer a wide range of adjustment options for precise door alignment.
Soft Close Slides
Unlike hinges, soft close slides are used for drawers. These incorporate a similar hydraulic damper mechanism, but designed to control the extension and retraction of drawers. They provide smooth, quiet operation and prevent slamming or jarring. Soft close slides are available in various extension lengths and weight capacities, catering to different drawer sizes and contents. Full-extension slides are particularly useful for maximizing accessibility to the contents of deeper drawers.
Hydraulic Dampers (Standalone)
Standalone hydraulic dampers are separate components that can be added to existing hinges or slides to provide soft-close functionality. This is a cost-effective solution for upgrading existing cabinets without replacing the entire hardware. However, proper installation is crucial to ensure effective damping and avoid potential issues. The damper is usually attached to the door or drawer and interacts with a specific part of the cabinet frame to create the slowing effect.
Comparison of Soft Close Hardware Brands
The following table compares five popular brands of soft close cabinet hardware. Note that prices can vary depending on the retailer and specific product features. Durability is assessed based on general user reviews and industry reputation.
| Brand | Type | Price Point (per unit) | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blum | Hinges & Slides | $$-$$$ | Excellent – known for longevity and smooth operation |
| Hafele | Hinges & Slides | $$-$$$ | Excellent – high-quality components, durable construction |
| Salice | Hinges & Slides | $$-$$$ | Very Good – reliable performance, wide range of options |
| Grass | Hinges & Slides | $-$$ | Good – solid performance at a more affordable price point |
| Knape & Vogt | Slides | $-$$ | Good – suitable for lighter-weight drawers |
*Note: $-$$ represents a lower to mid-range price point, while $$ – $$$ represents a mid-range to higher price point.
Installation Methods
The installation process varies slightly depending on the specific hardware type and brand. However, the general steps are similar.
Soft Close Hinge Installation
Before starting, ensure you have the correct hinges for your cabinet doors and the necessary tools: a screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), possibly a drill with appropriate bits, and possibly a hinge jig for precise placement.
- Step 1: Locate the hinge mounting holes on the cabinet door and the cabinet frame.
- Step 2: Use a drill and appropriate bit (if needed) to pre-drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood.
- Step 3: Attach the hinge cups to the cabinet door using screws.
- Step 4: Mount the hinge plates to the cabinet frame.
- Step 5: Carefully align the door with the frame and attach the door to the hinges.
- Step 6: Adjust the hinge screws to ensure proper alignment and closing mechanism.
Soft Close Slide Installation
Tools needed typically include a screwdriver (Phillips and flathead), possibly a drill with appropriate bits, a measuring tape, and possibly a level.
- Step 1: Measure and mark the location of the slide mounting brackets on the drawer sides and cabinet sides.
- Step 2: Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood.
- Step 3: Attach the slide brackets to the drawer sides and cabinet sides using screws.
- Step 4: Carefully insert the drawer into the slides, ensuring smooth operation.
- Step 5: Adjust the slides as needed for proper alignment and smooth extension/retraction.
Standalone Hydraulic Damper Installation
Installation instructions will vary greatly depending on the specific damper and application. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for detailed guidance. Generally, this involves attaching the damper to the door or drawer and aligning it with a specific point on the cabinet to create the dampening effect.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Soft Close Hardware
Choosing the right soft close cabinet hardware can significantly impact the longevity and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. It’s not just about quiet closing; it’s about finding a system that suits your specific needs and budget, ensuring a smooth and reliable operation for years to come. Several crucial factors need careful consideration before making a purchase.
Weight Capacity and Cabinet Size
The weight of your cabinet doors and drawers is paramount. Underestimating this can lead to premature failure of the soft close mechanism. Heavier doors and drawers require hardware with a higher weight capacity rating. Manufacturers usually specify this capacity in the product description. Ignoring this specification could result in the soft close mechanism struggling, failing to close completely, or even breaking. Always choose hardware with a weight capacity exceeding the weight of your heaviest cabinet doors and drawers by a comfortable margin – a 20% buffer is a good rule of thumb. For instance, if your heaviest door weighs 10 pounds, opt for hardware rated for at least 12 pounds.
Cabinet Style and Design
Different cabinet styles require different types of soft close hardware. For example, frameless cabinets often utilize concealed hinges and slides, while framed cabinets may accommodate a wider range of options.
For frameless cabinets, concealed soft close hinges and slides are usually the best choice, ensuring a clean, integrated look.
Framed cabinets offer more flexibility, allowing for both concealed and exposed soft close mechanisms depending on the desired aesthetic.
For overlay cabinets (where the door overlaps the cabinet frame), you’ll need hardware specifically designed for that type of installation to ensure proper alignment and function.
Budget and Material Considerations
Soft close hardware comes in a wide range of prices, depending on the brand, material, and features. While higher-priced options often offer superior durability and smoother operation, budget-friendly alternatives can still provide adequate performance. Consider the materials used – metal components generally offer greater longevity than plastic ones. The overall cost should also account for the number of cabinets and drawers needing the hardware.
Desired Level of Noise Reduction
The primary benefit of soft close hardware is noise reduction. However, the level of quietness varies between different mechanisms. Some systems provide a nearly silent close, while others offer a more muted but still noticeable dampening effect. Consider the location of your cabinets; for example, a bedroom may benefit from exceptionally quiet hardware, while a less noise-sensitive area like a pantry might tolerate a slightly louder option. Read reviews to get an idea of the actual noise level experienced by other users.
Long-Term Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your soft close hardware. This typically involves periodic lubrication with a silicone-based lubricant, applied to the moving parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ignoring lubrication can lead to increased friction, reduced effectiveness, and eventual failure of the soft close mechanism.
Common problems include sticking, slow closing, or complete failure to close. Sticking often indicates a need for lubrication or cleaning. Slow closing might be due to insufficient lubrication or a build-up of debris. Complete failure often points to a more serious issue, potentially requiring replacement of the hardware. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for troubleshooting specific problems.
Popular Brands and Reviews of Soft Close Cabinet Hardware
Choosing the right soft close hardware can significantly elevate your kitchen or bathroom remodel. It’s about more than just quiet closing; it’s about durability, ease of installation, and a smooth, luxurious feel that lasts. This section will highlight some top brands and delve into specific premium hinge models to help you make an informed decision.
Leading Soft Close Hardware Brands, Best soft close cabinet hardware
Several brands consistently receive high praise for their quality and performance in soft-close cabinet hardware. Considering factors like price, features, and availability is key to selecting the perfect fit for your project.
- Blum: A long-standing industry leader known for its precision engineering and wide range of products. Blum offers various soft-close mechanisms, including their renowned BLUMOTION and TIP-ON BLUMOTION systems, catering to diverse cabinet styles and weight capacities. Their key selling points are exceptional durability, a smooth, quiet close, and a comprehensive selection to match any design aesthetic.
- Hettich: Another reputable brand offering a diverse selection of soft-close hinges and slides. Hettich is celebrated for its innovative designs and user-friendly installation processes. They focus on providing a balance of quality and affordability, making them a popular choice for both DIYers and professionals.
- Salice: Salice is renowned for its high-end, stylish designs and superior build quality. They often incorporate unique features and advanced technologies into their soft-close mechanisms, appealing to customers who value both performance and aesthetics. Their products are often found in high-end cabinetry applications.
- Grass America: Grass America offers a robust line of soft-close hardware, known for its reliability and ease of installation. They cater to a broad range of needs, providing solutions for various cabinet types and weight capacities. Their focus on functionality and user-friendliness makes them a strong contender.
- Hafele: Hafele provides a wide selection of soft-close hinges and slides, covering various styles and price points. They’re known for their comprehensive catalog and ability to provide solutions for diverse project requirements. Their focus on a broad market makes them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Premium Soft Close Hinge Models: Detailed Reviews
Let’s examine three premium soft-close hinge models, highlighting their features and benefits to give you a clearer picture of what to expect from a top-tier product.
Best soft close cabinet hardware – Blum Aventos HF: This lift system is ideal for large, heavy cabinet doors, offering a smooth and effortless upward opening. The Aventos HF uses a robust steel construction with various finish options, including nickel, chrome, and bronze. Blum provides a limited lifetime warranty on their products, reflecting their confidence in the quality and durability of their hinges. The Aventos HF is engineered for a consistently smooth, silent operation, even under heavy use. Its integrated soft-close mechanism ensures a gentle, controlled descent every time. This hinge is a great example of combining elegant design with impeccable engineering.
Hettich Sensys: The Hettich Sensys hinge is known for its compact design and exceptional adjustability. Made from high-quality zinc die-cast, it offers durability and a wide array of finish options to complement any kitchen design. The integrated soft-close mechanism is exceptionally smooth and quiet. Hettich’s warranty varies depending on the specific product and region but generally offers a significant period of coverage, showcasing their commitment to quality. The Sensys hinge is a versatile choice, ideal for various cabinet styles and sizes.
Salice Quik-Close Hinge: The Salice Quik-Close hinge prioritizes both style and functionality. Constructed from high-grade materials, often featuring a sleek, modern aesthetic, it offers a wide range of finishes to match any decor. The soft-close mechanism is remarkably quiet and smooth. Salice typically offers a limited warranty on its products, ensuring that any manufacturing defects are covered. The Quik-Close hinge provides a sophisticated solution for those who value both quality and design. The hinge’s unique design often incorporates subtle features that improve both aesthetics and usability.
