How to measure cabinets: A step-by-step guide

Michael Woods

Under How-To

Updating your kitchen cabinets? Don’t overlook the importance of precise measurements. Whether you’re replacing cabinet door fronts, drawer fronts, or hardware, accurate measurements ensure a seamless fit and polished result. And they save you the hassle, time, and money that come with having to reorder products or redo your work.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through measuring your cabinets with precision, allowing you to confidently select the right replacement parts and accessories for your kitchen.

These instructions will get you ready to start your cabinet renovation journey on the right foot. Let’s dive in and learn how to measure cabinets effectively, efficiently, and accurately.

Tools needed to measure cabinets

Before you start measuring your cabinets, make sure you have all the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need for accurate kitchen cabinet measurements:

Tape measure: A reliable tape measure is the primary tool for measuring the dimensions of your cabinets.
Notepad or digital device: Keep a notepad or use a digital device to record your measurements as you go. This will help you stay organized and prevent confusion later.
Level: A level is useful for ensuring your cabinets are properly aligned.
Straight edge: A straight edge, such as a ruler or a level, help you keep your measurements straight and accurate.

How to measure kitchen cabinets

Accurately measuring your existing kitchen cabinets is crucial to finding replacement doors, drawer fronts, or hardware that properly fit your space. Follow these detailed steps to measure your cabinets with precision:

Measure the width of the cabinet

Position your tape measure at the left edge of the frame.
Extend the tape measure across the width of the cabinet to the right edge of the frame.
Measure again to verify your work. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Record the measurement in inches. Repeat this process for each cabinet.

Measure the height of the cabinet

Position your tape measure at the bottom edge of the cabinet.
Extend the tape measure vertically to the top edge of the cabinet.
Include features such as toe kicks, countertops, or frameless doors in your measurements.
Measure the dimensions of the cabinet elements mentioned in Step 3. That way, you can subtract those numbers from the overall measurement to easily calculate the height of the bare cabinet box should you need it when it comes time to order.
Measure again to check your work.
Take note of your measurements in inches. Repeat this process for each cabinet.

Measure the depth of the cabinet

Position your tape measure at the back edge of the cabinet.
Extend the tape measure to the front edge of the cabinet.
Include features such as toe kicks, countertops, or frameless doors in your measurements.
Measure the dimensions of the cabinet elements mentioned in Step 3. That way, you can subtract those numbers from the overall measurement to easily calculate the height of the bare cabinet box should you need it when it comes time to order.
Measure a second time to verify accuracy.
Record your measurements in inches as you. Repeat this process for each cabinet.

Measuring your cabinet doors

Giving your kitchen a fresh look with new cabinet doors and drawer fronts instead of going the full-scale renovation route? If so, measuring cabinet doors is a relatively straightforward process, but it can involve quirks. Here’s how to measure cabinet doors accurately:

If you’re replacing existing doors with the same overlay (the amount the door hangs over the opening), simply record the exact measurements of existing doors and drawer fronts.
When changing the overlay or measuring for new openings, follow this process:
- For single doors: Measure the opening and add two times the desired overlay. For example, a 12-inch-wide-by-24-inch-high opening with a 1/2-inch overlay would need a 13-inch-by-25-inch door: 2 x .5 + 12 = 13″.
- For double doors: The width of each door equals the opening width plus two times the overlay, minus 1/8 inch, divided by two. For example, a 24-inch opening with a 1/2-inch overlay would need two doors at 12 7/16 inches: (24 + (2 x .5) – .125 ÷ 2 = 12.4375″.
To figure height, use the same formula for single doors.

Recording your measurements

Write down or input the measurements you’ve taken for each cabinet. It’s important to keep track of the width, height, and depth for accurate ordering of replacement parts.
It’s mentioned above but bears repeating: Double-check your recorded measurements to ensure accuracy. Mistakes in measurements could lead to ill-fitting replacement parts.
You might also consider sketching a diagram of your cabinet layout to better visualize your measurements and to serve as a blueprint for the installation process. Plain or old-fashioned graphing paper works great. Or you can download one of the many helpful design apps available to further dial in the renovation process. SmartDraw, Space Designer 3D, and SketchUp.

Remember, precision is key when measuring your cabinets, as even slight variations can affect the fit of replacement components. Take your time, use a reliable tape measure, and double-check your kitchen cabinet measurements to ensure a successful renovation project.

Factors to consider when measuring custom kitchen cabinets

When measuring custom kitchen cabinets, there are a few things to consider to ensure accuracy. Otherwise, you might end up with ill-fitting cabinets that may not meet your design specifications. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Non-standard dimensions: Custom kitchen cabinets are often made to fit specific spaces, which means they may have non-standard dimensions. Take extra care in measuring the width, height, and depth of each cabinet to accommodate these unique measurements.
Cabinet alignment: Ensure cabinets are aligned properly and level with one another and the surrounding walls. Misaligned cabinets can affect the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen. Use a level and straight edge to check for alignment during the measuring process.
Clearances and spaces: Consider the surrounding space and any necessary clearances for doors, drawers, or appliances. Take note of the available space for proper door and drawer operation, and account for obstructions, such as pipes or electrical outlets, when measuring the cabinets.
Overhangs and reveals: Account for any desired overhangs or reveals for countertops and cabinet faces. These details can significantly impact the final look of your kitchen. Measure and record the appropriate dimensions to achieve the desired aesthetic.
Account for flooring and wall variances: Keep in mind that flooring and wall surfaces may not be perfectly level or straight. When measuring, note any variances in these surfaces so you can make sure your cabinets will fit properly and sit level.
Professional assistance: If you’re unsure about measuring custom kitchen cabinets or dealing with complex design elements, don’t hesitate to consult a professional. A skilled contractor or kitchen designer can provide the guidance you need to achieve accurate measurements — and a successful installation.

Standard kitchen cabinet dimensions

While custom cabinets offer flexibility in terms of size, standard kitchen cabinets — sometimes called stock cabinets — adhere to common size guidelines. Familiarity with these standard dimensions can be helpful when measuring cabinets or shopping for them online. Here are typical dimensions for standard kitchen cabinets:

Base cabinets

- - Width: 12 to 36 inches
  - Height: 34½ inches without countertop; 35-36 inches with countertop
  - Depth: 24 inches without countertop; 25 to 26 inches with countertop

Wall cabinets

- - Width: 9 to 48 inches
  - Height: 12 to 42 inches
  - Depth: 12 to 24 inches

Tall cabinets

- Width: 12, 24, or 36 inches
- Height: 84 or 96 inches
- Depth: 12 or 24 inches

Countertop overhang: A standard overhang of 1 to 1½ inches is common for cabinets with countertops. This allows for comfortable seating at kitchen islands or peninsulas.
Corner cabinets: Corner cabinets are designed to maximize space in kitchen corners. Their width typically ranges from 33 to 36 inches, while corner wall cabinets can be 24 to 36 inches deep. The height and depth follow the standard dimensions mentioned earlier.

It’s important to note that while these are standard dimensions, you might encounter variations as you shop. It all depends on the manufacturer and their specific design choices. When measuring cabinets, always defer to the actual dimensions of the cabinets you’re working with for the sake of accuracy and compatibility with your kitchen layout.

Whether you’re considering a complete kitchen remodel or simply replacing cabinet components, understanding these standard kitchen cabinet sizes can make you a more savvy shopper — ultimately helping you create a functional and visually appealing kitchen design.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What common mistakes should I avoid when measuring cabinets for replacement parts?

When measuring cabinets for replacement parts, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to inaccuracies. Here are a few tips to help you get accurate measurements: Double-check your measurements: Take multiple measurements of the width, height, and depth of the cabinet to ensure consistency and accuracy. Mistakes can happen, so verifying your measurements is always a good idea. Account for any obstructions: Pay attention to any obstructions, such as hinges, handles, or decorative molding, that may affect the dimensions of the cabinet. Make sure to measure from the outermost edges of the cabinet, excluding any protrusions. Consider the door overlay: If you're replacing cabinet doors, consider the door overlay. Measure from the edge of the cabinet box to the edge of the door when it is closed to determine the door overlay measurement.

How do I measure corner cabinets or irregularly shaped cabinets?

Measuring corner cabinets or irregularly shaped cabinets requires a bit of additional attention to ensure accurate measurements. Here's how to approach it: Measure each section separately: For corner cabinets, measure each section individually, including the width, height, and depth. Measure from the outermost points of each section to capture the precise dimensions. Account for corner angles: If you have cabinets with angled corners, such as diagonal corner cabinets, measure the angle of the corner as well. You can use a protractor or an angle finder tool to determine the angle accurately. Take additional measurements: In addition to the standard width, height, and depth measurements, consider measuring any diagonal or sloping sections to ensure the proper fitting of replacement parts.

Should I measure my cabinets in inches or centimeters?

Whether to measure in inches or centimeters ultimately depends on your personal preference and the measurement system commonly used in your country. Both inches and centimeters are widely accepted units of measurement for cabinets. The key is to be consistent throughout your measurements to avoid confusion or errors. If you’re working with a contractor or supplier, check with them on their preferred unit of measurement to ensure clear communication. Additionally, use a measuring tool that displays the units you are comfortable working with, whether it's a tape measure that shows both inches and centimeters or separate tools for each unit. If you are placing an order with us, we use inches for all of our measurements.

How do I measure for cabinet hardware placement?

Measuring for kitchen cabinet hardware placement is essential to achieve a balanced and visually pleasing look. Here's how you can do it: Determine the center point: Measure the width of the cabinet door and divide it in half to find the center point. Mark this point as your starting reference for hardware placement. Consider the vertical placement: Measure the height of the cabinet door and decide on where to place the hardware. It's common to position hardware 2 to 3 inches from the top or bottom edge of the door, but personal preference and the style of hardware can influence this decision. Measure for consistency: If you have multiple cabinet doors, ensure that the hardware is consistently placed across all doors. Use the same measurements and reference points to maintain a cohesive look.

How do I measure for replacement drawer fronts?

To measure for replacement drawer fronts, follow these steps: When replacing existing drawer fronts with the same overlay (amount the drawer front lays past the opening) simply enter the exact measurements of existing doors and drawer fronts. When changing overlay or measuring for new openings: Measure the opening and add two times the desired overlay. For example, a 20-inch-wide-by-4-inch-high opening with a 1/2-inch overlay would need a 21-by-5-inch drawer front (2 x .5 + 20 = 21″ and 2 x .5 = 4 = 5”).

How do I measure cabinet doors for glass inserts?

If you're considering adding glass inserts to your cabinet doors, follow these steps to measure accurately: Measure the door opening: Measure the width and height of the cabinet door opening from inside edge to inside edge. Take these measurements at the front of the door. Determine the glass size: Decide on the desired glass size based on the measurements of the door opening. It's common to leave a 1/8- to 1/4-inch gap around the edges for the glass to fit securely. Account for any panel frames: If your cabinet doors have panel frames, measure the width and height of the individual frames as well. This will help determine the appropriate glass size and ensure a proper fit. Remember, it's always a good idea to consult with professionals or suppliers for specific instructions and recommendations based on your unique cabinet and hardware requirements.