ᐅ What to do if Ikea Metod cabinet doors don’t close properly?

Linavin schrieb:
I’m curious if you checked whether the hinges were correctly selected for the respective door weights and sizes?

Thank you for your note. I actually used the standard hinges included with the Ikea Metod system. The doors are average size (about 80cm x 60cm (31.5 inches x 24 inches)) and should be compatible with these hinges according to Ikea.

Henry schrieb:
I’ve often found that slight warping of the doors themselves – that is, minimal material deformation – can cause small changes in the gaps

I haven’t checked that in detail so far, but that will be my next step. I wouldn’t have thought MDF doors could be so susceptible, but that would be a reasonable explanation.

Here’s how I adjusted the hinges: first, I tried to set the spacing using the side screw, then adjusted the height, but I wasn’t sure if I corrected the right depth. I’ll go through that systematically again. Thanks already for the tips.

Does anyone else have experience with “worn-out” hinges? Are there replacement parts that fit without having to replace the entire hinge?

Hello Annemari40,

Loose hinges are unfortunately a common issue with some Ikea Metod models. As far as I know, replacement springs are not sold individually by Ikea, but some DIY enthusiasts report that they have reshaped replacement springs from hardware stores (e.g., steel coil springs from metal supply shops) to fit.

It is important to carefully remove the spring from the hinge without damaging it, then take precise mechanical measurements.

An alternative is to replace the entire hinge. Although more work, it is simpler. The Metod hinge holes are standardized, so other compatible hinges may also fit.

But first: please check your doors for warping, as the problem can also be caused by the door itself, as already mentioned.

Good luck!

Warped doors are often the cause.

Remove the door from the frame and check the hinges for a secure fit.

Sometimes a small washer on the hinge helps if the gap is too large.

Check the springs carefully; otherwise, replace the hinge.

Kenton schrieb:
Check the springs carefully, otherwise replace the hinge.

I would like to elaborate on this: when replacing the hinges, it is important to note that the Metod screw-on cabinet connection allows only a small tolerance in positioning.

If the new hinges differ even slightly, it can affect the door alignment. That’s why I always screw the hinges to the cabinet first, then open the door and hang the door individually.

This way, small uneven gaps can be adjusted and the optimal position can be checked before everything is finally tightened.

Additionally, I would recommend checking before replacement whether the hinges and doors are not too heavy for the system used.

Annemari40 schrieb:
My adjustment was as follows: I first tried to set the gap using the lateral screw, then made the height adjustment, but I was unsure if I had corrected the correct depth.

This clearly highlights the core of the problem for me: The depth screw is the most important one when it comes to closing. It more or less controls how the door closes.

My advice: Try to proceed systematically – the depth is adjusted so that the door does not warp when closing and properly latches into the frame groove.

If the door gives way or pushes open, either the spring is too weak or the depth setting is incorrect.

fidasi schrieb:
If the new hinges differ even slightly, that can affect the door alignment.

Exactly! No one should underestimate that, especially with such a modular system like Metod.