How to Fit Internal Drawers Behind Cabinet Doors – 155° Hinges or Spacer Strips?
Would you like to add practical internal drawers while keeping your existing cabinet doors? This guide explains how 155° hinges and spacer strips solve the most common clearance problem.
Quick answer: There are two practical ways to fit internal drawers behind existing cabinet doors. If you want to keep your current hinges, spacer strips are usually the easiest solution. If you are replacing the hardware, 155° hinges provide the greatest possible drawer width.
Replacing fixed shelves with pull-out internal drawers is one of the most effective ways to make a kitchen or wardrobe easier to use. Instead of reaching into the back of the cabinet, you gain a clear view of pots, groceries and other everyday items.
There is one detail that often causes problems: the hinges. On many cabinets, a standard hinge projects into the opening and can prevent the drawer from sliding out freely.
Option 1 – Use 155° hinges for maximum drawer width
If you want to use the cabinet’s full internal width, 155° or 165° hinges are usually the best choice. Unlike standard 110° hinges, they move the door farther away from the opening so the hinge no longer blocks the drawer.
Benefits of 155° hinges
- You can use the full cabinet width.
- The drawer runs freely without touching the hinge.
- A good choice for a new installation or kitchen renovation.
Tip: Many modern cabinets use hinges with a 35 mm cup. A change to 155° hinges is therefore often possible without drilling new holes, but always check compatibility with the mounting plate.
Option 2 – Keep the hinges and use spacer strips
If you are happy with your existing hinges, you usually do not need to replace them. Spacer strips move the drawer runners approximately 25 mm away from the cabinet side, allowing the internal drawer to pass the hinge.
This is the solution we most often recommend when customers add pull-out drawers to an existing kitchen. Installation is quick and the existing hardware can remain in place.
Benefits of spacer strips
- You can keep your existing hinges.
- Installation is quick and straightforward.
- Ideal when adding drawers to an existing cabinet.
Please note: Because the runners are moved inwards, the drawer will be approximately 25 mm narrower than with 155° hinges.
Which solution should you choose?
Choose spacer strips if you…
- want to keep your current hinges;
- want a simple retrofit;
- are adding internal drawers to an existing kitchen.
Choose 155° hinges if you…
- are building new cabinets or renovating;
- want to use the full cabinet width;
- want maximum space inside the drawer.
Our recommendation: For most existing kitchens, spacer strips are the easiest option. For a new installation or when the hinges are already being replaced, 155° hinges normally give the best result.
How to choose the right internal drawer
Measure the internal width and depth of the cabinet carefully before ordering. We offer made-to-measure internal drawers, 155° hinges and spacer strips, and we will be happy to help you find the right solution for your measurements.
Frequently asked questions
Does this also work in IKEA kitchens?
Yes. Spacer strips and 155° hinges work in most IKEA kitchens. The best solution depends on the cabinet frame and hinges you have.
Do I need to replace the hinges?
No. If you want to keep them, spacer strips will usually work very well.
How do I know whether the hinge is in the way?
Open the door fully and check how far the hinge projects into the cabinet. If it crosses the planned drawer position, use spacer strips or hinges with a wider opening angle.
Summary
- 155° hinges provide maximum drawer width and suit new installations.
- Spacer strips let you keep the existing hinges and are often the easiest retrofit.
Unsure which solution suits your cabinet? Contact us with your measurements and we will gladly help you choose the right internal drawers, hinges and spacer strips.
