How to Measure the Fixing Centres of Cabinet Handles
Replacing handles on kitchen cabinets, drawers or furniture? This step-by-step guide shows how to measure the fixing centres correctly so the new handles fit the existing holes.
Replacing handles on kitchen cabinets, drawers, bathroom furniture or chests of drawers is an easy way to refresh your home. If two screw holes are already present, the new handle needs the correct fixing-centre measurement to fit without drilling new holes.
What is the fixing-centre measurement?
The fixing-centre measurement is the distance from the centre of one screw hole to the centre of the other. It is always stated in millimetres. A handle with 128 mm fixing centres therefore has 128 mm between the centres of its mounting holes.
Measure from the back of the door
Open the cabinet door or drawer and measure between the screws on the back. This is often easier and more accurate than measuring from the front, because handle feet vary in width and the screw hole is not always centred in the foot.
How to measure centre to centre
- Start at the centre of the first screw or hole.
- Measure to the centre of the second screw or hole.
- Write down the measurement in millimetres.
- Compare it with the fixing-centre measurement on the product page.
The example shows 128 mm. Choose a handle with 128 mm fixing centres if you want to reuse these holes.
Common cabinet handle sizes
Many European cabinets follow a 32 mm system. Common fixing-centre measurements include 64, 96, 128, 160, 192, 224, 256 and 320 mm. Do not simply round to the nearest standard size: check your measurement and the product specification before ordering.
Measure more than one door
Hole spacing can vary in an older kitchen or where handles have previously been replaced. Measure several doors and drawers, and check that the overall handle length and feet cover any marks left by the old hardware.
Try one handle before ordering many
If you are unsure, begin with a sample handle. Check the screws, coverage and comfort while opening the door.
We are happy to help you measure
Send us a photo of the front and back of the cabinet door together with your measurement. We will gladly help you confirm the size and find handles that fit the existing holes.
