A cupboard door that catches its neighbour may need a small hinge adjustment. Before turning anything, work out whether the problem is sideways alignment, height or how far the door sits from the cabinet.
This guide concerns common adjustable concealed cabinet hinges. Hinge designs vary, so use the maker’s diagram to identify the adjustment points on your own fitting.
Free printable: Cupboard door adjustment notes
Download this one-page A4 sheet to print for home, classroom or childcare groups.
Check what is actually wrong
Open the door and look for loose fittings, damaged board around the screws or something inside the cupboard preventing it from closing. Check that shelves, stored items and door buffers are not the cause.
If the hinge is pulling out of crumbling material, alignment adjustment will not repair that fixing. Support the door and arrange a suitable repair rather than continuing to tighten a damaged hole.
| Symptom | Adjustment to investigate |
|---|---|
| Gap between neighbouring doors is uneven | Side-to-side adjustment |
| Top or bottom edges do not line up | Height adjustment |
| Door projects forward or catches at the cabinet edge | Depth adjustment |
Make one small change at a time
- Photograph the starting position and identify the hinge model if possible.
- Use a hand screwdriver with the correct tip, keeping the door supported.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the relevant adjustment screw or mounting plate.
- Make a small movement, close the door gently and inspect the gap.
- Repeat gradually, checking the effect at both the top and bottom.
Do not assume that the same clockwise turn produces the same movement on every hinge. Some height systems use a dedicated cam; others require controlled movement of the mounting plate. Do not remove screws or release a clip while the door is unsupported.
Why adjusting one hinge can change the whole gap
The hinges work together. Moving the top without a corresponding change at the bottom can tilt the door. Check the complete outline after each adjustment rather than concentrating on one corner.
Know when to stop
Stop if the door becomes unstable, the screw will not hold, the hinge is bent or you reach the adjustment limit. Large, heavy or glass-fronted doors may need a second person or a professional repair.
Once aligned, check the door opens and closes freely and that fittings are secure according to the maker’s instructions. Soft-close controls, where fitted, are a separate adjustment from door alignment.
Further reading: Blum CLIP top assembly and adjustment guidance.
