How to Upgrade Kitchen Cabinets with New Hardware (Quick DIY Update!)

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets doesn’t always require a full remodel. A simple hardware swap can completely transform the look of your cabinets, making your kitchen feel modern, stylish, and high-end—all without spending a fortune.

Whether you prefer sleek matte black handles, trendy gold pulls, or classic knobs, this guide will help you choose the best cabinet hardware and install it quickly and easily.

1. Choose the Right Cabinet Hardware Style

The style of your cabinet hardware sets the tone for your kitchen’s design. Here are some popular options:

🛒 Best Picks:
🔗 Goldenwarm Brushed Gold Cabinet Handles (10-Pack) (Elegant and trendy!)
🔗 Amazon Basics Matte Black Cabinet Knobs (25-Pack) (Minimalist and modern!)
🔗 Franklin Brass Stainless Steel Bar Pulls (Sleek and contemporary!)

Hardware Styles & Best Uses:

StyleBest ForLook & Feel
KnobsSmall cabinet doorsClassic & simple
Bar PullsModern kitchensSleek & contemporary
Cup PullsFarmhouse & rustic kitchensVintage & cozy
Gold/Brass HandlesGlam & luxury kitchensElegant & trendy
Black HardwareMinimalist & industrial kitchensBold & modern

2. Measure & Choose the Correct Size Handles

Before buying new hardware, you’ll need to measure the existing holes (if replacing handles) or choose a size that fits proportionally with your cabinets.

📏 General Sizing Guide:

  • Small drawers (12 inches or less): 3-4 inch handles
  • Medium drawers (12-24 inches): 5-7 inch handles
  • Large drawers (over 24 inches): 8-12 inch handles

🛒 Best Picks:
🔗 Goldenwarm 5-Inch Matte Black Cabinet Pulls (Perfect for modern kitchens!)
🔗 Amerdeco Gold T-Bar Handles (Luxury look for less!)

Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Ensures a balanced, proportional look
✔️ Available in various finishes to match your decor
✔️ Works for both cabinets and drawers

3. Remove Old Hardware & Fill Extra Holes (If Needed)

If you’re replacing existing cabinet hardware with a different size, you may need to fill old holes with wood filler before drilling new ones.

🛒 Best Picks:
🔗 Elmer’s Wood Filler (Dries quickly and blends well!)
🔗 Katzco Wood Repair Kit (Great for matching wood tones!)

4. Install New Cabinet Hardware (Easy DIY Guide)

🔧 Tools You’ll Need:
✔️ Drill & screwdriver
✔️ Tape measure & level
✔️ Cabinet hardware template (optional)

🛠️ Step-by-Step Installation:
1️⃣ Measure & Mark: Use painter’s tape to mark hole placement for accurate drilling.
2️⃣ Drill Holes: Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw size.
3️⃣ Attach Hardware: Insert screws from the inside and tighten with a screwdriver.
4️⃣ Check Alignment: Use a level to ensure all handles line up evenly.

Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Instantly updates cabinets with minimal effort
✔️ Easy DIY—no professional help needed
✔️ Customizable for any kitchen style

5. Mix & Match Hardware for a Custom Look

For a high-end, custom feel, try mixing different types of hardware. Example:

✔️ Knobs on upper cabinets + Pulls on lower cabinets
✔️ Gold handles on white cabinets + Matte black on an island
✔️ Vintage cup pulls for drawers + Bar handles for tall cabinets

🛒 Best Mix & Match Picks:
🔗 Gold Cup Pulls & Bar Handles Set (Perfect combination!)
🔗 Mixed Black & Brass Cabinet Handles (Modern two-tone design!)

Best Cabinet Hardware Options – Quick Comparison

Hardware TypeBest ForProsAmazon Link
Brushed Gold HandlesLuxury, glam kitchensTrendy & elegantShop Now
Matte Black KnobsMinimalist, modern kitchensBold & sleekShop Now
Stainless Steel PullsContemporary & industrial kitchensDurable & modernShop Now
Cup PullsFarmhouse & vintage kitchensCozy & rusticShop Now
Mix & Match SetCustom, designer looksUnique & stylishShop Now

Final Thoughts: Upgrade Your Cabinets in Minutes!

Upgrading your kitchen cabinet hardware is an easy, budget-friendly way to make your kitchen feel brand-new.

Whether you prefer sleek modern handles, trendy gold pulls, or classic black knobs, these simple swaps will give your cabinets a high-end designer look—without the price tag.

Upgrade your kitchen today with these easy DIY cabinet hardware updates and enjoy a fresh, stylish space in no time!