ᐅ How can I install IKEA Metod cabinets with doors that close softly and quietly?

Created on: 21 Aug 2023 09:17
K
kokoon
Hello everyone,

I am currently working on a project to assemble several Ikea Metod kitchen cabinets, including the doors. My main concern is how to mount the doors or which adjustments and possible additions I can use to ensure the doors close as smoothly and quietly as possible.

I understand that Metod cabinets can generally be equipped with soft-close hinges, but:
- Are the supplied hinges sufficient for truly smooth and noiseless closing?
- Are there any special tips, tricks, or recommended upgrades (e.g., additional dampers, rubber buffers, etc.) that you use for optimal performance and durability?
- What should be carefully considered when adjusting the doors to avoid overloading the mechanism while still achieving a pleasant closing action?

I would be very grateful for specific advice based on experience or helpful technical details regarding assembly and adjustment.

Thank you!
T
Trate47
21 Aug 2023 18:12
Hey, great topic here! 😄
I also upgraded my Metod cabinet doors to soft-close some time ago. Here’s a small tip from my experience:

- The included soft-close hinges are great, but precision is key.
- After installation, I attached small rubber bumpers to the inside of the doors exactly where they meet the cabinet frame. Sounds simple, but it really makes the closing soft and quiet, and it feels very high-quality.
- When adjusting: check not only the screws but also the door hinges multiple times, especially when opening and closing frequently—they can loosen a bit.
- If you ever feel like, “Is the door hanging weirdly, or making noises?” adjust the screws very carefully, preferably in small steps—Ikea designed these screws to be very user-friendly for this.

Don’t stress too much about perfection; sometimes small tricks are more effective than rebuilding the whole structure 😉.
B
Blavin
22 Aug 2023 08:45
I would like to put a bit more focus on the sustainability of the closing mechanism.

- Regular maintenance is important: clean the hinges, as dust and dirt can prevent smooth closing.
- The soft-close hinges should show no visible damage. Cracks in the damping or loose springs mean they need to be replaced.
- The materials used in Metod are designed for cost-effective mass production – some wear and tear is normal.
- For a long-term solution, replacing them with higher-quality soft-close hinges could be worthwhile. This pays off through reduced wear and better noise insulation.

I recommend setting the inspection interval to every two weeks during the first months, then extending it to monthly once consistent performance is confirmed.
L
lajudo
22 Aug 2023 13:29
One last point:

The mounting surface of the hinges must be perfectly flat. Even the best hinge won’t help if the cabinet carcass is warped.

I once assembled a kitchen where the cabinets weren’t perfectly aligned. As a result, the doors slammed shut despite having high-quality hinges and didn’t close smoothly.

If the fronts can’t be adjusted properly, often the only solution is to correct the carcass or use appropriate shims underneath.