Do you ever find yourself needing help to open a cabinet door without handles? It’s an entirely preventable annoyance, but sometimes it feels impossible. Luckily, there are several ways in which you can easily and efficiently open cabinets without handles! This seemingly small problem can suddenly become a significant obstacle and leave you feeling stuck in your progress.
The worst part is not knowing how to properly open the cabinets – with or without handles! Fortunately, there’s an easy solution for such situations. In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to open cabinets without handles for opening cabinets without the use of traditional handles. Whether your cabinets came with no handles at all or the existing ones broke off, we’ll show you how to get them opened quickly. Plus, once you understand each method, you can choose one that works best for your particular situation – so let’s dive right into it!
Necessary Items
Before we get started, you’ll need to make sure you have the necessary items to open your cabinets without handles successfully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A screwdriver
- A credit card or plastic card
- A thin, flat object such as a butter knife or spatula (optional)
10 Methods on How to Open Cabinets Without Handles
Method 1: Using a Credit Card
The first method we’ll discuss requires using a credit card or another similar plastic card. Here are the steps to follow:
First, locate the latch of the cabinet door. Insert your credit card between the door and frame where the latch is located. Slide your credit card towards where the handle would normally be located until it reaches the end.
Once the card is at the end, push or pull to release the latch and open the cabinet. If you’re having trouble removing the latch with a credit card, try using a thin, flat object such as a butter knife or spatula instead.
Method 2: Using a Screwdriver
If you need access to a credit card or plastic card, another method for opening cabinets without handles is using a screwdriver. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Locate where the latch of the cabinet door would be located. Take your screwdriver and insert it into the small hole on the side of the latch mechanism. Push down on the screwdriver to release the latch and open the cabinet door. If you’re having difficulty locating the latch mechanism or using a screwdriver, try using the credit card method instead.
Method 3: Using Adhesive Hooks
Another solution for opening cabinets without handles is by using adhesive hooks. Here’s how to do it:
Place an adhesive hook on either side of the cabinet door where you would like your new makeshift handle to be. Make sure they are placed at a comfortable height for pulling or pushing. Once the hooks are secure, simply remove or push on them to open the cabinet door.
Method 4: Magnetic Cabinet Latches
If you want a more permanent solution for opening cabinets without handles, consider installing magnetic cabinet latches. Here’s how:
First, remove any remaining pieces of the old handle using a screwdriver if necessary. Next, install the magnetic latch according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once installed, you can easily open and close your cabinet doors using the magnetic key. This method may require more work upfront, but it will provide a long-term solution for opening cabinets without handles.
Method 5: Installing Handles
If you want to keep things simple and traditional, consider installing new handles on your cabinet doors. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
First, measure the distance between the two holes or screws where the old handle was attached. Use these measurements to purchase new handles that will fit perfectly. Next, use a screwdriver to attach the new handles in place of the old ones. This is an easy and effective way to open your cabinets without any hassle.
Method 6: Using Drawer Pulls
Drawer pulls can also double as makeshift cabinet door handles! Here’s how:
Purchase drawer pulls that match the size and style of your cabinet doors. Then, screw them into the door where you would like your handles to be located. This method is quick and easy, plus it gives a unique look to your cabinets.
Method 7: Rope or Ribbon Handles
For a more creative and decorative approach, consider using rope or ribbon as handles for your cabinets. Here’s how:
Measure and cut equal lengths of rope or ribbon for each cabinet door. Tie the ends together in knots to create a loop handle. Then, securely attach one end of the handle to the inside of the door using hot glue or screws. Repeat this process on the other side for a sturdy yet stylish way to open your cabinets without handles.
Method 8: Installing Cabinet Door Pulls
Unlike drawer pulls, cabinet door pulls can also work as substitute handles. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Purchase cabinet door pulls that match the size and style of your cabinets. Using a screwdriver, install them on each side of the cabinet where you would like your handles to be located. This is another simple yet effective way to open your cabinets without traditional handles.
Method 9: Rubber Bands or Hair Ties
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any tools or materials on hand, try using rubber bands or hair ties to open your cabinets without handles. Here’s how it works:
Simply wrap a rubber band or hair tie around both sides of the cabinet door where the handle would generally be located. Pull on both sides of the rubber band or hair tie simultaneously to release the latch and open your cabinet door.
Method 10: Asking for Help
Last but not least, if all else fails, don’t hesitate to ask for help! Reach out to a family member, friend, or neighbor who may have tools or materials to help you open your cabinets without handles. Sometimes, all it takes is an extra set of hands to solve a problem.
As you can see, there are many ways to open cabinets without traditional handles. From using everyday items like credit cards and screwdrivers to installing new handles or creative solutions with rope and ribbon, these methods are simple yet effective in helping you access your cabinets without hassle. Give these methods a try and see which one works best for you.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I Use Any Credit Card or Plastic Card for the First Method?
Yes, it is thin and flexible enough to fit between the door and frame. Just be careful not to damage or break the card.
Can I Use Any Type of Adhesive Hooks for Method 3?
It is recommended to use heavy-duty adhesive hooks to ensure they can withstand the pulling or pushing force needed to open the cabinet doors.
Do I Need Special Tools for These Methods?
No, most of these methods can be done with simple household items like a credit card, screwdriver, and hot glue. However, some methods may require specific materials, such as magnetic latches or drawer pulls. Always read and follow instructions carefully when using tools.
Should I Remove My Old Handles Before Trying These Methods?
Some methods may require removing old handles before proceeding, while others can work with traditional handles. Choose the method that works best for your specific situation.
Are These Methods Safe for My Cabinets?
These methods should not cause any damage to your cabinets as long as they are used correctly. Use caution when using tools and materials, and if you have any concerns, consult a professional before attempting a DIY solution. Overall, these methods offer safe and effective ways to open cabinets without handles.
Conclusion
It is possible to open cabinets without handles with some creative problem-solving strategies. Hopefully, this blog post has helped give you creative and sometimes surprising solutions about how to open cabinets without handles.
Though it may feel like a task nearly as daunting as the ones faced by 19th-century lock pickers, with enough practice and patience, you’ll be able to unlock any handleless doors or drawers like the locksmith standing in awe before your feat of engineering. As you can see, learning how to open basic cabinets without handles is not only accessible but also incredibly useful.
Whether the parts for your kitchen renovation project have yet to arrive or you’re just curious how to perform this home fix, now you have the knowledge you need.
So do not be afraid to try some of these tricks when needed—they may even save you money in the long run! After all, with a few simple tools and supplies on hand and a bit of creativity, anything is possible. Go forth and conquer those cabinet doors! Don’t forget the instructions covered in this post, as they can come in handy when no handle is available. If you are ever stuck facing off against a handleless cabinet, now you have various tools that will allow you to be triumphant. Best of luck!