--- title: Can You Add Soft-Close Hinges To Old Cabinets? description: Should you add soft close hinges to your cabinets when painting? Weigh your options, here! image: https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(4)-Apr-28-2025-01-42-42-0336-PM.png --- [Skip to main content](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/can-you-add-soft-close-hinges-to-old-cabinets#maincontent) [ «  Learning Center ](https://brushandrollpainting.com/learning-center) # Can You Add Soft-Close Hinges To Old Cabinets? September 8th, 2025 4 min read By [Kaylea Kuhlman](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) ![Person closing a soft close cabinet drawer in a kitchen in Omaha, NE.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(4)-Apr-28-2025-01-42-42-0336-PM.png?width=800&height=418&name=Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(4)-Apr-28-2025-01-42-42-0336-PM.png) You’ve decided your kitchen or bathroom cabinets need a fresh start. Maybe you’re getting them professionally painted to bring them back to life, or perhaps you’re finally saying goodbye to the dated wood tone you’ve had for decades. As you’re planning, you start thinking about the small upgrades that can make a big difference in how your cabinets function. One idea stands out: soft-close hinges. The thought of doors and drawers gliding shut without that jarring slam is appealing. But then a question hits: Can you even add soft-close hinges to older cabinets? Or is that only for brand-new ones? At [Brush & Roll Painting](https://brushandrollpainting.com/), we’ve been working with cabinets in Omaha homes since 1996. We’ve painted, refinished, and helped homeowners make smart updates to cabinets of every style and age. We’ve seen firsthand how a small functional upgrade, like soft-close hinges, can make old cabinets feel brand-new. In this article, you’ll learn exactly whether you can add soft-close hinges to your existing cabinets and drawers, what your options are, how they can be installed during a painting project, and the best way to decide whether to purchase them through your painter or separately. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the process so you can make an informed choice for your own home. ## **Can You Add Soft-Close Hinges to Existing Cabinets?** Yes, you absolutely can. Whether your cabinets are ten years old or forty, there are ways to add soft-close hinges or soft-close add-on mechanisms. Soft-close hinges work by using a built-in damper system that slows down the motion of the door or drawer as it closes. This prevents slamming, reduces wear on the cabinet, and feels more high-end. While many newer cabinets come with them already installed, older cabinets can be upgraded without a complete replacement. ![Soft close drawers open after new hinges were installed.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(3)-Apr-28-2025-01-43-22-7357-PM.png?width=601&height=314&name=Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(3)-Apr-28-2025-01-43-22-7357-PM.png) ## **Types of Soft-Close Options for Older Cabinets** There are two main approaches for adding soft-close capability: ### **1. Full Replacement Hinges or Drawer Slides** This option involves removing your current hinges or slides and replacing them with new ones that have the soft-close feature built in. For cabinet doors, that means swapping to soft-close hinges. For drawers, that often means replacing the slides with soft-close versions. **Pros:** - Clean look with no extra parts showing - Works exactly like new cabinets would - Long-lasting and smooth operation **Cons:** - More expensive than add-on mechanisms - May require more installation work if your cabinet construction is different from standard sizes ### **2. Add-On Soft-Close Hinges or Clips** These are small devices that attach to your current hinges or slides, adding a soft-close function without replacing the whole piece. **Pros:** - Less expensive than full replacements - Faster installation - Great option if you like your current hinges’ look **Cons:** - Not quite as seamless in appearance as new hinges - May not fit every hinge or slide style [![How Much Will Your Cabinet Project Cost? Before you get quotes for your project, you deserve to know what to expect ahead of time.    Click the button below to plug in your project details and get the exact price range you can expect for your cabinet refinishing project.  ](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7973434/interactive-181883501416.png) ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLNJty8cIeMNWlUCUe6Z2Yz30MxS1D5YjhH7f8nwZl%2FR3nhax0IyYw7lUfGPGIBqbLZv8y4pfbZC9YFCutwgq87uteZP5m7YZi%2BTZUn5R9gGASaVAXbKCJFAIAYpse5qJ3FaWVJ1JNMWQtP0aEUHOyePAilQdDxObrqoIE3dP6twK8rBbEjva9ajxlB1RxuBHrJcBJs7aI3&webInteractiveContentId=181883501416&portalId=7973434) ## **Adding Soft-Close Hinges During a Cabinet Painting Project** If you’re already planning to have your cabinets professionally painted, this is the perfect time to upgrade to soft-close hinges or drawer slides. Why? - **Cabinet doors and drawers will already be removed:** Painters typically take doors and drawer fronts off for painting, which makes installation much easier. - **No extra wear and tear on freshly painted surfaces:** Installing hardware after the painting process is complete reduces the risk of scratches or chips. - **Opportunity to match finishes:** If you’re replacing visible hinges, you can choose a finish that complements your new cabinet color and hardware. ![Close up of soft close hinge on a cabinet door.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(2)-Apr-28-2025-01-44-11-1201-PM.png?width=624&height=326&name=Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(2)-Apr-28-2025-01-44-11-1201-PM.png) ## **Can Painters Install Soft-Close Hinges?** Yes, many professional painters, including [Brush & Roll Painting](https://brushandrollpainting.com/), can install soft-close hinges or drawer slides as part of your cabinet painting project, whether you buy them on your own or purchase them through the painter.  You have two main choices for how to purchase them: **Buying Through Your Painter** - Convenient, no need to measure or shop around - They ensure compatibility with your cabinet style - Often installed at the same time as the paint job without extra coordination **Buying Hardware Yourself** - More control over brand, finish, and price - Can shop sales or use store credit - Requires you to be confident in measurements and style compatibility If you’re not comfortable measuring hinges or aren’t sure what will work with your existing cabinets, having your painter handle it can save a lot of frustration. ## **Special Considerations for New Hinges on Older Cabinets** When upgrading older cabinets to soft-close, there are a few things to keep in mind: - **Hinge Style Compatibility:** Older cabinets may have face-frame or frameless construction, and the hinges you choose need to match that style. - **Drawer Slide Fit:** If you have very old wooden drawer slides instead of metal ones, upgrading to soft-close may require additional modifications. - **Wear and Tear:** If your cabinets are worn or warped, some adjustments may be needed for doors and drawers to close smoothly after installing soft-close mechanisms. ![Cabinets painted white with soft close hinges.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/_DSC0474_524-1.jpg?width=592&height=392&name=_DSC0474_524-1.jpg) ## **Are Soft-Close Hinges on Cabinets Worth It?** For many homeowners, yes. Soft-close hinges and slides don’t just feel nice; they also protect your cabinets. By preventing the repeated impact of slamming, they can help painted or stained finishes last longer. They also reduce noise. If you’re already investing in a cabinet painting project, adding soft-close hinges can be a relatively small additional cost for a noticeable improvement in function. ## **Cost to Add Soft-Close Hinges During Cabinet Painting** Prices can vary depending on the style of hinge or drawer slide, brand, and installation time required. For Omaha homeowners, expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars per door for simple add-on clips to $15–$30 per hinge for full replacements. Drawer slides often cost more, usually $20–$50 per set. When included in a painting project quote, the labor for installation is typically lower than if you were to hire someone separately later. That’s because the painter already has the doors and drawers off, making the process more efficient. ## **How to Decide if You Should Add Soft-Close Hinges** Ask yourself: - Am I already having my cabinets painted or refinished? - Do I care about/want a quieter, smoother closing motion? - Am I okay with spending a little extra now? If the answer to these is yes, adding soft-close hinges is likely a smart choice. ## **Cabinet Painting in Omaha, NE** If you’ve been wondering whether you can add soft-close hinges to your older cabinets, the answer is yes. Whether you choose full replacement hinges and slides or simpler add-on devices, the upgrade is possible and often straightforward. Adding them during a painting project is the most efficient time, since your doors and drawers will already be removed and ready for reinstallation. At [Brush & Roll Painting](https://brushandrollpainting.com/), we’ve worked with Omaha homeowners since 1996 to make thoughtful updates like this during painting projects. If you’re ready to give your cabinets a fresh new look and add the quiet convenience of soft-close hinges, click the button below to get a quote. [![GET A QUOTE](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7973434/c191e76f-b1ae-40ef-97b0-79ddd9b97ab7.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7973434/c191e76f-b1ae-40ef-97b0-79ddd9b97ab7) If you’re not ready to get a quote just yet, try our cabinet painting pricing calculator to get an idea of what your project might cost. [![Price Your Cabinet Painting Project](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7973434/85955dd1-de46-4771-bef8-8d3216a04a22.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7973434/85955dd1-de46-4771-bef8-8d3216a04a22) [ Kaylea Kuhlman ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager) Kaylea is the Content Manager at Brush & Roll Painting, where she leads the company’s marketing strategy, content creation, and brand messaging. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in Journalism and Media Communications and a minor in Marketing, combining strong writing skills with a clear understanding of how to connect with homeowners. Since joining Brush & Roll Painting at the end of 2022, Kaylea has played a key role in shaping how the company communicates with its customers. She works closely with the team to turn real, on-the-job experience into helpful, easy-to-understand content that answers the questions homeowners are already asking. Her approach focuses on clarity, honesty, and making sure people feel confident before starting a painting project. Kaylea’s work helps bridge the gap between technical painting knowledge and everyday decision-making. Whether it’s explaining the difference between paint finishes, helping homeowners choose the right cabinet color, or breaking down what to expect from a professional painting process, her goal is always the same: to make the process feel simple and stress-free. Topics Kaylea Covers: Kaylea writes and creates content across all areas of residential painting, including: -Interior painting (walls, ceilings, trim, and woodwork) -Exterior painting and maintenance -Cabinet painting and refinishing -Deck staining and wood care -Paint colors, finishes, and design decisions -What to expect when hiring a professional painter -Common homeowner questions, concerns, and mistakes to avoid Her content is designed to give homeowners clear answers, set realistic expectations, and help them make confident decisions about their home. Topics: [ Pro Tips ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/topic/pro-tips) [ Cabinets & Woodwork ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/topic/cabinets-woodwork) Don't forget to share this post: ## Related Articles [![Exterior of house in Omaha, NE with a ladder against it in the process of being painted by Brush & Roll Painting.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Havens%20during%201.jpg?width=1280&height=721&name=Havens%20during%201.jpg) ### 9 Things To Do Before Exterior House Painting July 6th, 2026|4 min read ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/9-things-to-do-before-exterior-house-painting-omaha) [![Basement kitchen with a fresh black paint color and smooth finish on cabinets in a home in Omaha, nE.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_4532.jpeg?width=4032&height=3024&name=IMG_4532.jpeg) ### 9 Mistakes for Choosing a Cabinet Paint Color & Finish June 26th, 2026|4 min read ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/mistakes-for-choosing-a-cabinet-paint-color-finish) [![Caulk on the outside of a home before painting in Omaha, NE.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_6018.jpg?width=4032&height=3024&name=IMG_6018.jpg) ### Why Your Exterior Caulk Is Cracking After One Year June 22nd, 2026|4 min read ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/why-your-exterior-caulk-is-cracking-after-one-year) [![Wall of paint color swatches in a hardware store for homeowners to pick paint colors in Omaha, NE.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size-Jun-19-2026-02-22-33-4456-PM.png?width=800&height=418&name=Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size-Jun-19-2026-02-22-33-4456-PM.png) ### Why Paint Chips Don’t Match Your Actual Paint June 19th, 2026|4 min read ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/why-paint-chips-dont-match-your-actual-paint) [![Wall with imperfections with brown paint before painting again in Omaha, NE.](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Burnham%20Before%201-1.jpg?width=4032&height=3024&name=Burnham%20Before%201-1.jpg) ### Why Do My Walls Look Worse After DIY Painting? 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April 24th, 2026|4 min read ](https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/can-you-change-all-cabinets-to-soft-close-hinges) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Kaylea Kuhlman", "url" : "https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/author/kaylea-kuhlman-content-manager" }, "dateModified" : "2025-09-08T14:07:40.083Z", "datePublished" : "2025-09-08T14:07:40.000Z", "headline" : "Can You Add Soft-Close Hinges To Old Cabinets?", "image" : [ "https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hubfs/Blog%20Post%20Image%20Size%20(4)-Apr-28-2025-01-42-42-0336-PM.png" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/can-you-add-soft-close-hinges-to-old-cabinets", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.brushandrollpainting.com/hubfs/logo-1.png" }, "name" : "Brush & Roll Painting" } } ```