
Choosing the right handle size can be confusing. Wrong sizes cause discomfort or look odd.
Handle size depends on drawer or door width, type, and use. Measure screw hole distances and match them to drawer size for comfort and style.
Getting the right handle means measuring carefully and considering furniture type. I will guide you on measuring handle size, standard sizes, door handle sizing, and matching cabinet handles.
How to measure handle size?
Measuring handle size involves understanding two key numbers.
Measure the distance between the screw holes (center to center) for fitting; also note handle overall length for visual balance.
First, remove the old handle or measure existing screw hole distance, called 'center-to-center length' or hole spacing. This size must fit the handle’s mounting screws exactly. Next, measure the full length including handle ends to gauge appearance. Make sure the new handle matches the hole spacing or you’ll need to drill new holes.
Steps:
- Use a ruler or tape measure.
- Measure between screw hole centers (e.g., 64mm, 96mm).
- Note total handle length.
- Compare with furniture piece size.
For new furniture without holes, measure drawer or door width and use standard sizes to choose.
What is the standard size of handles?
Handles come in common hole spacings making replacement easier.
Standard handle hole distances are usually 64mm, 96mm, 128mm, or 160mm, matching drawer or door sizes.
Common center-to-center sizes serve different furniture widths and uses. Small drawers use 64mm or single-hole handles. Medium drawers and doors fit 96mm to 128mm. Large drawers and tall doors often need 160mm or larger for comfort and balance.
Standard sizes table:
Drawer/Door Size | Handle Hole Distance | Handle Type |
---|---|---|
≤30cm (small drawers) | Single-hole or 64mm | Small pulls |
30-60cm (medium drawers | 64mm or 96mm | Medium pulls |
>60cm (large drawers) | 128mm or 160mm | Large pulls |
≤20cm (narrow doors) | Single-hole or 64mm | Small door handles |
20-50cm (medium doors) | 96mm or 128mm | Medium door handles |
>1.8m (tall doors) | ≥160mm or multiple handles | Long handles or pairs |
This helps furniture match handle size and usability.
How to figure out door handle size?
Door handles should fit door width and height for ease of use.
Measure door width and height, then select handles matching size—for tall doors, longer handles or dual handles help usability.
For narrow doors (≤20cm), use single-hole or 64mm hole handles to avoid overlarge pulls. Medium doors (20-50cm) fit 96mm or 128mm handles for visual balance and grip. Very tall doors (over 1.8 meters), like floor-to-ceiling wardrobe doors, benefit from long handles (160mm+) or two smaller handles at different heights. This aids people of different heights and makes opening easier.
Door handle sizing guide:
Door Size | Handle Size Suggestion |
---|---|
Narrow (≤20cm) | Single-hole / 64mm hole |
Medium (20-50cm) | 96mm or 128mm hole |
Very tall (>1.8m) | Long handles ≥160mm or upper/lower pairs |
Balanced sizing improves function and look.
How do you know what size handles for cabinets?
Cabinet handles need matching size by drawer width and drawer type.
Match cabinet handle hole spacing to drawer width: small drawers (<30cm) get small handles; larger drawers need longer handles with bigger hole distances.
Small drawers (like bedside tables) suit single-hole or 64mm screw hole handles for simple grip. Medium drawers (30-60cm) fit 64mm or 96mm handles. Large drawers (>60cm) require 128mm or 160mm handles so users can pull comfortably without strain.
For children’s furniture, choose smooth single-hole handles (3-5cm diameter) to avoid sharp edges. Mount handles lower, 60-90cm from the floor, where children can easily reach.
Cabinet handle size guide:
Drawer Width | Handle Type & Hole Distance |
---|---|
≤30cm | Single-hole or 64mm hole handles |
30-60cm | 64mm or 96mm hole handles |
>60cm | 128mm or 160mm hole handles |
Children's Rooms | Rounded single-hole handles (3-5cm diameter), mounted lower (60-90cm) |
Following these rules ensures practical and safe cabinet hardware.
Conclusion
Handle size depends on drawer or door width, hole spacing, and user needs. Measuring hole center distance and matching it to furniture size guarantees comfortable and stylish handles.