ᐅ How do I retrofit IKEA Metod doors with a soft-close feature?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to retrofit soft-close hinges onto my already installed IKEA Metod kitchen cabinet doors. I've read quite a bit about the different hinge types, such as the "Grundtal" or the "Metod" with soft-close function, but what I am particularly interested in is the exact procedure for adding the soft-close feature afterwards, once the doors are already mounted.

- How exactly do you replace or add the existing hinges with the soft-close mechanism?
- Are there any fine adjustments that should be paid attention to in order to set the function optimally?
- Does the door need to be completely removed for this, or can the soft-close parts be attached directly to the hinges already fixed in place?
- What tools or aids are recommended for this task?

I would appreciate a detailed answer, ideally with a step-by-step explanation or tips on common pitfalls. Thanks in advance!

Hello Adenison48,

I’m happy to explain in detail how to retrofit soft-close hinges on IKEA Metod doors. Since your doors are already installed, the process is a bit different than installing them from scratch.

First: IKEA offers soft-close hinges as complete hinge sets. This means you basically need to replace the old hinge entirely with the new one that has built-in damping. However, if you already have Metod hinges, it is also possible to retrofit special soft-close modules that snap or click onto the existing hinge.

Step-by-step instructions:

- Open the doors and remove the hinge cover (if present).
- Completely unscrew the old hinges – usually, a Phillips screwdriver is needed.
- If retrofitting soft-close modules, carefully snap them onto the existing hinge plate. This requires a delicate touch, as the modules must fit precisely.
- If installing the complete new soft-close hinge, first screw the base plate of the hinge onto the cabinet carcass.
- Then attach the door with the hinge and click it in place.
- Important: The soft-close function uses a mechanism with a small damper and metal spring. These can be adjusted. IKEA hinges usually have a screw to fine-tune the closing pressure.

Things to watch out for:

- The door must be well secured during installation to ensure proper alignment.
- When adjusting, you can move the doors left, right, up, and down to ensure they close cleanly and avoid dragging.
- If the doors close too slowly or too quickly, after some use you can gently ease the damper by applying light pressure.

Tools needed: screwdriver, possibly a small Allen key, quality drill only if new holes are required (usually not needed for retrofitting).

It would be helpful to know whether you want to buy completely new hinges or only retrofit the soft-close parts. This can significantly change the process.

If you could briefly describe the exact type of hinge and your setup, I can also give you advice on the precise products.

Noahlu schrieb:
If you could briefly describe the exact type of hinge and your setup, I can also give you advice on the specific products.

Hello Adenison48,

I would like to add that with IKEA Metod, there are basically two main approaches for retrofitting:

- Complete hinges with integrated soft-close function, which fully replace the old ones.
- Separate soft-close modules that can be attached to existing Metod hinges.

However, the modular retrofit options are only compatible with certain hinge types and do not fit all doors and hinges.

Installing the soft-close elements can be a bit tricky, but usually works without completely removing the doors. It is still advisable to open the doors slightly to have enough room to work safely.

Adjusting the doors afterwards is also important so that the closing mechanism does not get stuck and the doors open smoothly. As a rule, it’s better to adjust the hinges more often than to force them.

Tools: A screwdriver with the correct head and a pair of pliers can be helpful if metal clips need to be released.

I hope this helps you a bit.

Adenison48 schrieb:
How exactly do you replace or upgrade existing hinges with soft-close mechanisms?

I know how frustrating it can be when you’re determined to upgrade your kitchen but don’t seem to make much progress. From my own experience, it takes a lot of patience.

You should really take your time converting the hinges one by one. Don’t try to do them all at once. Once you’ve completed the first hinge, you’ll notice it gets easier.

Noahlu schrieb:
The door must be firmly secured during installation to ensure proper alignment.

This tip really helped me because at first I just left the doors hanging open. That only caused trouble with misaligned doors.

One more tip: test all the soft-close components beforehand to make installation smoother later.

If you experience closing issues, don’t get discouraged—sometimes it just needs some fine-tuning. I even occasionally applied a bit of oil to the hinge to support the damping.

Short and precise:

- Unscrew the old hinges.
- Install the soft-close hinge, first on the cabinet carcass, then hang the door.
- Fine-tune using the adjustment screws on the hinge.
- Check the door and correct alignment if necessary.

The doors must be completely removed for this.