ᐅ How can I retrofit soft-close hinges to Ikea Metod cabinet doors?

Created on: 1 Mar 2022 08:17
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HUNORFE
Good morning everyone, I have a question and hope to benefit from your experiences and tips:

I own an Ikea Metod kitchen front without a soft-close feature, but I would like to add it afterward. Specifically, I’m referring to the Metod doors, which currently use standard hinges without damping.

My question is: How can I install a soft-close function on these existing doors without replacing the entire doors or hinges?

Are there special soft-close retrofit kits that are easy to install and compatible with the existing Metod hinges? Should I pay attention to a specific screw or drilling position to attach the soft-close components?

I want to keep the effort for the upgrade as low as possible, but of course, the result should be durable and reliable.

I would be very grateful for any advice, tips on parts, or personal experiences!
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draFrederi
1 Mar 2022 11:29
Hello! I love how a simple soft-close retrofit door turns creaky sounds into smooth and elegant ones 😄

A small tip: After installation, I occasionally fine-tuned the dampers by slightly loosening and adjusting the screws. This way, the closing action can be perfectly calibrated.

I’m sure it will work for you too—just don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t run perfectly right away!
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RonJarrett
2 Mar 2022 07:42
One more note regarding drill holes: The position of the soft-close damper is standardized (for example, at IKEA it is usually mounted about 4 cm (1.5 inches) from the top or bottom hinge). Therefore, if the door is well made, you can use the existing holes from the old door.

Make sure the dampers do not interfere with the door front, as this can cause problems when closing. Before installation, perform a test fitting without screws.
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BOLUKEO
2 Mar 2022 09:11
You don’t need to drill anything; with the IKEA soft-close retrofit kits, the screw holes are pre-drilled or you use the existing ones. I’ve had this setup for over two years, and it works perfectly.
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zartra
2 Mar 2022 11:02
The retrofit can also be done using small plastic clips that are attached between the door and the cabinet body.

The soft-close function is then integrated without needing to install additional screws or dampers.
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HUNORFE
3 Mar 2022 07:35
puvin schrieb:
There are actually retrofit kits from IKEA specifically designed to fit Metod hinges that can be easily screwed onto the existing holes.

That sounds great, thanks! Do you remember the exact product name?
RonJarrett schrieb:
IKEA offers separate soft-close module kits (FjÀlling series) that can be combined with the standard Metod hinges.

You mean the "FjÀlling" series, those kinds of modules?

I also think that original dampers have advantages when it comes to durability.

Does it make sense to take the doors off completely for installation? I’m not sure if I can securely attach the dampers with the kitchen closed.

Looking forward to more tips!
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puvin
3 Mar 2022 09:48
HUNORFE schrieb:
Do you still remember the exact name for it?

Yes, people usually search for "Ikea Metod Soft-Close Hinge Damper" or "FjÀlling Soft-Close Kit."
HUNORFE schrieb:
Does it make sense to remove the doors completely for installation?

Definitely! I took off the doors for the installation, which made the process much easier and allowed for more precise work.

The dampers are attached with screws, which is difficult to do properly when the doors are still mounted.

Good luck! You can do it!