• New cabinet door hinges can add function, style and safety features to a single cabinet or to all of the kitchen cabinetry. Changing the cabinet door hinges or hardware can greatly alter the cabinet's appearance. Installing no-slam hinges can protect small children's fingers. As long as you plan where to install the hinges and take your time, you can complete this project without a professional.
  
  

Use Existing Hardware As a Guide

• After removing the hinges and other hardware from the cabinet door with a small screwdriver, compare them at a hardware store for replacement hinges. A same-size replacement is the simplest way to go, according to an article by Bob Vila on cabinet hinge replacement. Since many ready-made hardware pieces have standard spacing screws, you have a vast assortment of options. This lets you compare and confirm that the hinges will fit. Get the right size early on and you won't have to waste repeated trips to the hardware store.
  
  

Start Clean

• Once you have removed the previous hinges, you still may have rough paint hinges and dirt on the area. Remove this debris to ensure the hinges will adhere to the cabinet properly. A mild solution of dish washing liquid and water and a sponge or soft cloth should be enough to remove the dirt or debris. You can smooth the rough paint edges with fine sandpaper or an emery board.
  
  

Hinge Tricks

• Cabinet door hinges come with two to six screw holes on each side. Most doors require at least two hinges. While installing the first screws on the hinges, an assistant to hold the door is helpful. Placing marks on the cabinet where the screws need to be placed is helpful in case the door slips during installation. For the first screws, install one screw in the top hinge while one goes in the bottom. This will create balance and free your hands to complete the rest of the screw installation.
  
  

Installing Hinges on New Cabinetry or Odd Sizes

• If the kitchen cabinet is not hardware-ready, or the hardware you selected has different spacing than the previous holes, you will need to measure precisely, level and pre-drill holes. Make a template for consistent hole spacing.
  
  Hinges need balance, so measure down about one inch from the top of the cabinet for hinge location. You should have equal distance from the bottom of the cabinet to the hinge for the lower hinge. Noting screw location on the cabinet with a marker or pencil will ensure proper hinge placement.