How to Measure Cabinet Handle Hole Centers: A Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Updating your kitchen or furniture hardware is one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to refresh your interior space. However, ordering the wrong size cabinet handles can lead to unnecessary returns, delays, or damaged cabinet doors.
Before ordering new hardware from Love Handles UK, you need to measure your existing setup accurately. In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through measuring cabinet handle hole centers (CC) step-by-step to ensure a perfect fit every single time.
What Does "Hole Center" (CC) Mean?
In hardware terminology, the Hole Center—often abbreviated as CC (Center-to-Center)—refers to the exact distance between the center of one screw hole to the center of the other screw hole.
⚠️ Common Mistake: Never measure the total overall length of the handle. Always measure from the center of the first screw hole to the center of the second.
Tools You Will Need
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A metric measuring tape or a clear ruler (millimeters/centimeters are standard in the UK)
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A piece of paper and pencil
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A screwdriver (to remove existing hardware)
Step-by-Step: How to Measure Your Existing Handles
Step 1: Remove the Existing Handle
Unscrew the back fixings inside your cabinet door or drawer using a standard screwdriver and set the old handle aside.
Step 2: Measure from Center to Center
Place your ruler or tape measure along the inside face of the door (or across the screw holes on the outside).
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Align the
0 mmmark at the precise center of the left hole. -
Read the measurement directly at the center of the right hole.
Step 3: Check Standard UK Hardware Sizes
UK cabinet hardware comes in standard metric increments (typically in steps of 32mm due to international manufacturing standards). Common sizes include:
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96mm (~3.75 inches)
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128mm (~5 inches) — Most common in modern UK kitchens
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160mm (~6.3 inches)
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192mm (~7.5 inches)
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224mm and 320mm (for larger drawers or appliance pulls)
If your measurement reads something like 127mm or 129mm, your exact specification is almost certainly 128mm.
What If You Are Installing Handles on New Doors?
If you are drilling new holes into undrilled cabinet doors or drawers, you are not restricted by existing hole centers!
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Proportional Tip: For small drawers or doors under 400mm wide, a 96mm or 128mm handle works best.
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Modern Aesthetic: For wider drawers (600mm+), longer handles like 192mm or 320mm create a sleek, contemporary look.
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Alternative Option: Consider using single-hole cabinet knobs or T-bar pulls, which require only a single central drill hole.
Ready to Upgrade Your Hardware?
Once you have your exact hole center measurement, finding your replacement handles is easy! Explore our full range of Cabinet Handles, featuring solid brass, knurled textures, matte black, and satin finishes designed to elevate your home interior.
