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Simple IKEA Hack: DIY with Custom Cabinet Doors
If you're considering upgrading your IKEA cabinets without replacing them entirely, a simple DIY hack using custom cabinet doors could be the solution. Rather than tearing out your cabinets, updating each IKEA cabinet door with a fresh and modern cabinet door design element can give your space a stylish and personalized look—all while staying budget-friendly. Here’s your ultimate guide to giving your IKEA cabinets a custom makeover!
Custom Cabinet Door Replacement for IKEA Cabinets
If your IKEA cabinet frames are in good condition but you’re looking for a larger transformation, replacing only your cabinet doors on IKEA cabinets is an excellent option that gives the cabinets a brand new look. In fact, there is a term in the cabinetry industry specifically for this kind of DIY IKEA hack called cabinet refacing .
What is Cabinet Refacing for IKEA Cabinets?
Cabinet refacing involves replacing only the cabinet doors, allowing you to retain your IKEA cabinet boxes while giving your kitchen a full refresh. At CabinetNow, we specialize in custom cabinet doors that fit perfectly onto IKEA cabinets, offering over 300 colors and materials including unfinished wood doors and glass cabinet doors to suit any style or need.
Why Choose Refacing?
- ✔ Cost Savings: Refacing is a cost-effective alternative to a full remodel, often saving over $10,000 versus a full remodel.
- ✔ Custom Designs: Choose from countless styles, materials, and finishes to create your dream space.
- ✔ Quick Turnaround: Our custom cabinet doors are crafted to order, with lead times typically around 5-7 days in production.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: Before beginning your cabinet refacing journey, take the time to assess the current state of your IKEA cabinets. Look closely at the frames, hinges, and interiors, checking for wear or structural issues that may affect your project’s outcome. Ensuring that your cabinets are in good shape will help make the refacing process smoother and more effective, and you’ll be better prepared to plan any adjustments or repairs needed before installing your custom doors.
The Simple Way to Measure for Replacement IKEA Cabinet Doors
For a straightforward way to replace your IKEA cabinet doors and drawer fronts, start by guide on overlay measurement for details.
Measuring Basics for Replacement IKEA Cabinet Doors
- Start with the Openings: Measure the width and height of each cabinet door and drawer front.
- Record Measurements: Drawing a simple layout of your kitchen can help you keep track of each measurement and ensure accuracy.
- Order: Once each measurement is recorded, input your dimensions into CabinetNow’s width and height fields for the custom cabinet door you are interested in. If you prefer to work with a CabinetNow representative with no additional cost, please fill out the form below and submit your measurements. We are happy to help!
This approach keeps the process simple and ensures your custom CabinetNow doors will fit perfectly on your IKEA cabinets!
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: For easy reassembly, make a small, discreet label on the inside edge of each cabinet door, or place a sticky note with details like its location and any unique dimensions. This way, you’ll know exactly where each door belongs when it’s time to reinstall, and the labels will be hidden once the doors are back in place. Staying organized in this way helps prevent mix-ups, especially if your project involves doors of similar sizes!
How to Install New Cabinet Doors Using Existing IKEA Hinges
Replacing cabinet doors is a quick and impactful way to update the look of your IKEA cabinets. Here’s a step-by-step guide IKEA hack on reusing existing IKEA hinges for a smooth, efficient installation.
Step 1: Remove Old IKEA Cabinet Doors
step-by-step guide IKEA hack on reusing existing IKEA hinges for a smooth, efficient installation.
Detach the Hinges: Open the cabinet door to access the hinges. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the hinges from inside the cabinet frame, starting from the top or bottom of the hinge, depending on the configuration. Carefully set aside the screws if you plan to reuse them.
Remove the Door: Once the hinges are detached, carefully lift the old door off the cabinet frame. If it’s large or heavy, having someone hold it steady can help.
Prepare the Cabinet Frame: With the door removed, inspect the frame for any dust or debris. Wipe down the surface to ensure it’s clean for a seamless installation of the new door.
Step 2: Install Custom Cabinet Door Replacement for IKEA Cabinets
step-by-step guide IKEA hack on reusing existing IKEA hinges for a smooth, efficient installation.
Attach Hinges to New Doors: Take the new cabinet doors and align the hinges with the pre-drilled holes on the doors. Use the screws to fasten the hinges, ensuring they are secure but not overtightened to avoid damaging the material.
Position the New Doors: With hinges attached, place the new doors against the cabinet frame. Line up the hinges with the existing hinge plates or mounting points on the frame.
Secure the New Doors: Use the screwdriver to attach the hinges to the cabinet frame, starting with the top hinge, then the bottom. Check for alignment and adjust as necessary to ensure that the doors open and close smoothly without any misalignment or gaps.
Test the New Doors: Once secured, test the doors to make sure they operate smoothly. Adjust the hinges slightly if needed for a perfectly aligned look and functionality.
Step 3: Replace Drawer Front Replacement for IKEA Cabinets
step-by-step guide IKEA hack on reusing existing IKEA hinges for a smooth, efficient installation.
Remove Existing Drawer Fronts: Unscrew the existing screws from the back of each drawer to release the old drawer front.
Attach New Drawer Fronts: Position the new drawer front onto the drawer box and secure it with screws. Tighten the screws on each side to ensure it’s level and aligned.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: Keep your hinges, screws, and other small components organized during this process to avoid any frustration during reinstallation. Try using small containers or labeled bags for each type of hardware. This will save you time and ensure all pieces are easy to find when you're ready to attach the new doors and drawer fronts.
Can I Just Paint Over My IKEA Cabinets?
While it seems like an easy and cheap way to upgrade your IKEA cabinets, painting over IKEA cabinets is not a lasting choice due to their non-porous laminate coating over particle board. IKEA's cabinet materials are typically laminate or melamine, which is engineered to be smooth, durable, and resistant to stains and scratches—qualities that unfortunately also make them challenging to paint effectively.
Laminate surfaces are especially tricky because they lack the natural pores of wood, which paint can adhere to more easily. Sources such as Bob Vila and Ideal Home emphasize that painting laminate also requires a specific technique to ensure adhesion, including the use of products designed for smooth surfaces, such as bonding primers and high-quality acrylic or oil-based paints. However, even with meticulous preparation, painted laminate can still be vulnerable to wear and may require frequent touch-ups.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: Expert IKEA Hack Tip: If you're looking for a long-lasting, professional finish for upgrading your IKEA cabinets, options like custom door replacements or vinyl wraps might offer more durability and aesthetic appeal in the long term.
Custom Finishes for IKEA Cabinet Door Replacement
When considering custom replacement cabinet doors for any of IKEA’s lines, CabinetNow offers a range of styles and materials to suit any design preference and budget. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:
Trendy Thermofoil Cabinet Doors
Thermofoil doors are crafted by applying vinyl laminate over an MDF core, creating a resilient, easy-to-clean finish that is more resistant to scratches than painted wood. With over 90 color options available, from sage greens to modern neutrals, thermofoil cabinet doors offer endless customization. Styles like the Modern Turino or Modern Shaker Slim provide a sleek and contemporary look for IKEA cabinets.
Timeless Wood Cabinet Doors
Unfinished wood doors allow for customization, making them ideal for those seeking a lasting, high-quality kitchen style that will stand the test of time. A clear coat can be added to protect the wood, ensuring the cabinets remain stylish for years to come.
Choose from over 15 wood species, including alder, maple, and cherry, and white oak with options for both natural and select grades. Natural grade wood offers a rustic, organic look with visible grain patterns, while select grade has a smoother, more refined appearance. Both types can be painted or stained, making them versatile for various design styles, from modern farmhouses to modern aesthetics.
CabinetNow offers a wide selection of cabinet styles, including flat and raised panels, square or arched shapes, and decorative grooves that add unique character to any kitchen. Shaker-style doors are especially popular for a clean, minimalist look that never goes out of style.
Options like Revere cabinet doors provide a classic appearance, Freedom doors evoke a rustic feel, and Sheldon doors offer farmhouse charm. Each style helps you personalize your IKEA cabinets for a cohesive look that fits your vision.
Premium Sherwin Williams Painted Cabinet Doors
For a premium painted finish for your custom cabinet door replacements for IKEA, choose CabinetNow’s painted cabinet doors. These doors are made with premium materials including solid wood face frame and MDF panel. For a sultry retreat, choose Retreat SW 6207 for the perfect modern sage green. For a classic, yet trendy look, pair gold hardware with SW Creamy 7012. Choosing painted cabinet doors for IKEA cabinets is a premium and lasting choice for a high-end look.
Sleek Veneer Cabinet Doors
For a polished, smooth aesthetic, veneer cabinet doors are a stylish choice. This material provides a clean, shiny finish that’s durable and resistant to warping.
These custom cabinet door offerings give you a range of options for creating a kitchen design that’s both stylish and budget-friendly for a classic wood finish for your IKEA cabinets.
Affordable MDF Cabinet Doors
For those on a budget, MDF (medium-density fiberboard) doors provide a durable, paintable alternative to solid wood at a fraction of the cost. MDF cabinet doors are ideal for less frequently used spaces, like garages or laundry rooms, and can be finished with paint or a clear coat for long-lasting style. Popular MDF options include the Baltimore shaker-style door and the Arlington slab door.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: Consider a two-tone look to bring a designer touch to your kitchen. For example, pair natural wood cabinet doors on your lower cabinets with painted doors, like a soft sage green or cream, for the upper cabinets. This approach adds depth and visual interest, making your kitchen feel both modern and custom. CabinetNow’s range of wood species and Sherwin Williams painted options make it easy to mix and match finishes for a look that’s uniquely yours.
Glass Cabinet Door Replacement for IKEA Cabinets
Replacing standard IKEA cabinet doors with custom glass doors is a stylish way to create an open, airy feel while showcasing your favorite dishware, glassware, or collectibles. CabinetNow offers various styles to help you bring this modern touch to your kitchen or any other IKEA cabinet setup.
CabinetNow’s Custom Glass Door Options
- Open Frame for Glass Inserts: CabinetNow’s custom options allow you to order cabinet doors designed specifically to accommodate glass inserts. With an open frame style, you can choose any CabinetNow door design and leave the center open, making it ready for a custom glass panel.
- Glass Lites with Custom Configurations: If you’re looking for a more intricate design, CabinetNow offers doors with glass lites—individual glass panes set within the door frame. Options include up to 8 glass lites, creating a traditional, divided look.
- Specialty Lite Cabinet Doors: Specialty lite doors are another standout option, combining unique framing with glass panels for a refined, custom look. These doors feature thicker frames or alternative shapes for added design interest.
How to Replace IKEA Cabinet Doors with Custom Glass Options
- Measure for Glass Inserts: Start by carefully measuring your cabinet openings and confirming the size of the door frames.
- Choose the Type of Glass: CabinetNow offers the flexibility to add your preferred type of glass. Consider frosted, clear, or textured glass for a unique look.
- Install Glass Panels: Attach the glass insert within the door frame using clear clips or silicone to secure it firmly in place.
- Add Finishing Touches: Once your new glass doors are in place, consider adding hardware such as sleek handles or knobs for a cohesive look.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: For the best results, use frosted or textured glass if you’d like to maintain an open look without displaying all the cabinet contents. This trick works especially well if you want a sleek, modern feel while keeping your storage somewhat concealed.
Vinyl Laminate for Customizing IKEA Cabinet Doors
Vinyl laminate is a fantastic, budget-friendly way to add a custom look to IKEA cabinet doors, offering various finishes—matte, gloss, woodgrain, or stone-like textures—that suit any aesthetic. Here’s how it can help you upgrade your cabinets and create a unique, durable finish without a full remodel.
How to Apply Vinyl Laminate
- ✔ Prepare the Doors: Start by thoroughly cleaning your IKEA cabinet doors to ensure a smooth application. Remove any grease or dust that could prevent adhesion.
- ✔ Measure and Cut the Vinyl: Measure each cabinet door carefully and cut the vinyl slightly larger than the surface to leave room for trimming. Use a sharp utility knife for precise edges.
- ✔ Apply the Vinyl Smoothly: Begin by aligning the vinyl with one edge of the door, then slowly press down as you peel off the backing, using a squeegee to smooth out air bubbles as you go.
- ✔ Trim Excess Vinyl: Carefully trim any extra vinyl from the edges using a sharp blade. For a seamless finish, use a heat gun on low to gently mold the vinyl around edges and corners.
- ✔ Final Touch-Up: Use a soft cloth to smooth out any remaining bubbles or wrinkles, and double-check the edges to ensure they’re fully adhered.
Vinyl laminate is an excellent DIY solution for giving IKEA cabinets a high-end look with minimal effort, making it a go-to hack for anyone looking to personalize their kitchen or bathroom on a budget.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: Label and organize each vinyl sheet before applying it to avoid confusion and misalignments. This way, you can visualize the layout and apply each sheet to the correct door or drawer front, making the process more efficient.
Finishing Touches: Final Tips for Your IKEA Hack Project
When tackling a custom cabinet door replacement for IKEA cabinets, small finishing touches can make all the difference in transforming a simple IKEA hack into a designer-level upgrade. Here’s how you can add those finishing details for a cohesive and polished look:
- Coordinate Kitchen Elements: For a cohesive feel, consider updating other aspects of your kitchen alongside your new custom cabinet doors. Refresh elements like backsplashes, lighting, and open shelving to match your updated cabinet style for a seamless look. A neutral backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, and minimalist hardware can harmonize beautifully with new cabinet doors, especially with modern or Shaker styles.
- Add Unique Cabinet Hardware: Experiment with stylish handles or knobs that complement the overall design. Hardware selection enhances the personality of your space, whether you're going for a vintage look with brass handles or a sleek modern aesthetic with matte black pulls.
- Explore Color and Texture: If you’ve chosen plain doors, adding paint, vinyl laminate, or even wallpaper inserts can elevate the look. This simple hack brings color and texture into your kitchen or bathroom without a major overhaul.
- Consider Interior Cabinet Lighting: For glass-front cabinet doors, interior lighting can be a stylish addition. LED strip lights inside the cabinet frame create a warm glow and highlight stored items. This is especially effective with specialty lite or multi-pane doors, adding a luxury feel.
- Ensure Proper Alignment and Adjustment: After installing your custom cabinet doors, adjust hinges and align doors for a smooth, flush appearance. Make adjustments as needed to achieve a professional look.
Expert IKEA Hack Tip: To extend the life of your custom cabinet doors, seal or finish them with a durable topcoat. This extra layer of protection helps prevent scratches, stains, and wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Completing your IKEA cabinet upgrade with these finishing touches transforms a simple DIY project into a high-end design that truly reflects your personal style. With options like CabinetNow’s American-made, custom-fit cabinet doors, achieving a designer-quality look has never been more accessible.
Simple IKEA Hacks with Custom Doors Summary
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Key Benefits of Cabinet Refacing
- ✓ Cost Savings: Save over $10,000 compared to a full remodel.
- ✓ Custom Designs: Choose from over 300 colors and materials.
- ✓ Quick Turnaround: Custom doors typically have a production lead time of 5-7 days.
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How to Measure for Replacement IKEA Cabinet Doors
- ✓ Measure the width and height of your existing doors and drawer fronts.
- ✓ Record the measurements to ensure accuracy.
- ✓ Input dimensions into CabinetNow’s custom door builder for a perfect fit.
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Installing Custom Cabinet Doors
- ✓ Use existing hinges for a quick and cost-effective installation.
- ✓ Attach hinges to new doors, align, and secure to the cabinet frame.
- ✓ Test the doors for smooth operation once installed.
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Custom Cabinet Door Options
- ✓ Thermofoil: Durable, scratch-resistant, and available in over 90 colors.
- ✓ Wood: Offers a timeless, high-quality look with over 15 wood species available.
- ✓ Glass: Create an open, airy feel with custom glass door options.
