The height of cabinet handles may seem like a minor detail, but it actually has a direct impact on the comfort and functionality of the furniture. Have you ever opened a cabinet door that was uncomfortable to reach? Have you ever felt that the handle position was not aesthetically pleasing?
The small daily gesture of opening and closing a cabinet becomes frustrating if you have not thought through where to place the handles. Moreover, proper placement not only influences the practical use, but also the aesthetics of the whole.
Whether you’re building a new closet or renovating an old one, knowing how high to put the handles on your closet is key to making it look beautiful and comfortable to use. In this guide we tell you everything in a clear and simple way.
What do we mean when we talk about the height of cabinet handles?
The height of cabinet handles refers to the exact point where the handles or knobs are placed on the cabinet doors. Although there is no one size fits all, there are general recommendations to help find the most comfortable and aesthetically pleasing position for each style of handle and cabinet.
Factors influencing the correct height
When deciding on the height of cabinet handles, several aspects should be taken into account:
- Type of closet: a built-in closet is not the same as a closet with sliding or hinged doors.
- User height: if the cabinet is used by children, the elderly or someone with reduced mobility, the height must be adapted.
- Furniture design: some cabinets have decorative lines, moldings or divisions that condition the position of the handles.
- Type of handle: knob-type handles are positioned differently from bar or handle handles, and it also influences whether they are vertical or horizontal.
How high are cabinet handles set?
Although they can be adjusted, there are guidelines for the height of cabinet handles that work well in most cases:
- For closet hinged doors, the handle is usually placed about 90-100 cm from the floor, on the outer edge of the door.
- On overhead or tall doors, it is recommended that the handle be between 7 and 12 cm from the bottom edge.
- For low doors, the handle should be between 7 and 12 cm from the upper edge.
- In the case of drawers, they are placed centered or slightly above the middle, depending on the design.
At what height to put cabinet handles depending on the type of furniture
Not all cabinets are the same, and therefore there is no perfect handle height, it may vary depending on the type of door or the use that will be given to the cabinet.
Hinged door cabinets
This type of cabinet is the most classic. For a comfortable installation the height of the cabinet handles of this type should range between:
- The handle should be about 90-100 cm from the floor, on the outer edge.
If the door is very tall, it can also be centered vertically for visual balance. For this type of cabinets there are long handles, a modern solution that is much more elegant than conventional handles. - In cabinets for children or elderly people, it is recommended to lower the height slightly for ease of use.
Sliding door closet cabinets
Aesthetics are more important here. The usual is:
- Place the handle about 100-110 cm from the ground, vertically centered on the side of the leaf.
- In models without visible handles, the opening system can be either recessed or push-to-open, so there is no need to worry about the height.
Where to place handles on base cabinets?
In low cabinets, such as those that usually go in kitchens, bathrooms or auxiliary furniture, it is best to place the handles at the top of the door, leaving between 5 and 10 centimeters from the top edge. This location makes it easier for you to open the cabinet without bending over too much or forcing your posture.
If the furniture has drawers, the handle is usually placed centered at the front or slightly above the center, so that the pulling gesture is more natural. In modern style furniture, it is also possible to use hidden handles or “push” systems without the need for a visible handle.
The key is to adapt the height of the handles to the ergonomics of the user, without neglecting the design of the furniture.
How to choose the right handles for each cabinet style
Once the height of the cabinet handles is clear, it is time to decide what type of handles to use. This is where the design and style of the cabinet come into play.
Modern, classic or children’s style
- Modern: long handles, recessed handles or even push systems are often used. Matte or black finish is very common.
- Classic: knob or handle handles, in metal or decorated ceramic finishes.
- Children: colorful handles, with fun shapes or rounded to avoid knocks.
Most commonly used materials and finishes
Some of the most commonly used materials and finishes for cabinet handles are:
- Zamak and aluminum: resistant, versatile and with an elegant finish.
- Stainless steel: modern, clean and easy to combine.
- Wood: warm and cozy, ideal for rustic or Nordic styles.
- Ceramic: adds a classic or vintage touch.
- Methacrylate or glass: perfect for more glamorous or youthful environments.
Combination of functionality and design
No matter how beautiful a handle is, it has to do its job. If the cabinet is used on a daily basis, it should be ergonomic and resistant. If it is decorative or for little use, you can prioritize the design.
Conclusion: the ideal handle height improves your day-to-day life.
It may seem like an unimportant detail, but placing handles in the right place completely transforms the experience of using a cabinet. With the right cabinet handle height, opening and closing the doors becomes comfortable, fluid and natural.
Whether you need to know at what height to put the handles of your closet or to renew the style of your bedroom, kitchen or children’s room, remember that a small, well thought-out gesture can make all the difference.
SC Herrajes: quality and design at your fingertips
At SC Herrajes you will find handles and accessories that combine style and functionality, designed to adapt to all types of furniture. Whether you are looking to renovate your closet or give a more modern look to your kitchen, our solutions offer the perfect mix between design and durability. Contact us to receive personalized advice and give the final touch that your spaces need.
