ᐅ How do I install IKEA Metod cabinets with soft-close hinges and adjustable shelves?

Here is my step-by-step guide for assembling a Metod cabinet with soft-close hinges and adjustable shelves:

- Preparation:
- Check all components for completeness and damage.
- Lay out all screws and tools.
- Installing the mounting plates for the hinges:
- Position the mounting plates exactly according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 21.5 cm (8.5 inches) from the top and bottom).
- Secure the mounting plates by screwing them in; pre-drill if necessary.
- Check alignment with a spirit level.
- Attaching the soft-close hinges:
- Snap the hinges onto the mounting plates.
- Temporarily attach the cabinet doors to adjust the height.
- Adjustment:
- Use the screws on the hinges for fine-tuning height, depth, and lateral alignment.
- Make sure the door operates smoothly without binding.
- Installing the shelves:
- Insert the shelf supports into the pre-drilled holes.
- Place the adjustable shelves on the supports.
- Checking stability:
- Perform a load test; if the shelves bend, consider adding edge reinforcement.

Tips:
- Work slowly and carefully, especially when screwing into particleboard.
- Always use the correct screws for the soft-close hinges; screws that are too long can damage the material.
- Adjust the doors only after the cabinets are fully assembled.

If you like, I can also provide key points with photos, but I hope this text helps for now.

sarlo schrieb:
Adjust doors only after the cabinets are fully assembled.

I completely agree with this. A common mistake is trying to fully adjust the doors right after the first screws are in. Cabinets can warp slightly during assembly, so the doors should be precisely adjusted only at the end.

Regarding the adjustable shelves: use only the pre-drilled holes provided for the shelf supports. If you plan to make additional holes, be careful, as this can reduce the load capacity and quickly damage the material.

One more detail:
- During the installation of soft-close hinges, small plastic parts used to regulate the damper often come off. Make sure not to lose these.
- For particularly heavy fronts, it may be advisable to use stronger hinges or increase the number of hinges.

May I ask how many cabinets you are assembling and whether you are installing them in a kitchen or as standalone furniture pieces?

kaubi schrieb:
May I ask how many cabinets you are installing and whether you are using them in a kitchen or as standalone furniture pieces?

I am planning a total of four base cabinets and two wall cabinets, all for an open kitchen in the living room. The fronts and panels are all matte white, handleless, as already described. The kitchen construction should be as durable and high-quality as possible, which is why this installation detail is so important to me.

I take your advice on adjusting the doors and the soft-closing parts seriously, thank you!

What about installing the shelves during or after assembly? Can the shelves be repositioned easily later on, or is there a significant risk that the pre-drilled holes could get damaged?

Shelves can be easily repositioned later if you use the pre-drilled holes provided. IKEA Metod cabinets are designed for this.

However, avoid drilling new holes or enlarging the existing ones, as this will compromise stability. If you are careful, the durability will be maintained.

I can easily understand how important a clean and durable installation is to you—especially with an open kitchen, where everything is immediately visible.

The great thing about IKEA Metod is that even beginners can achieve excellent results with some patience. If you ever feel uncertain along the way, just take a short break, step back, and then continue working. The soft-close hinges have really made my kitchen life easier—no more slamming doors.

As for the shelves: I had some doubts while rearranging, but the adjustable supports are designed for this and hold well when properly installed.

Good luck, you’ve got this!