How to Install a Cabinet Magnetic Latch

A magnetic cabinet latch, also called a magnetic cabinet catch, is designed to hold a cabinet door closed. The latch is comprised of two parts: a floating magnetic base screwed to the bottom cabinet shelf, and a steel striker plate screwed to the inside of the door. Magnetic latches are great for use in older homes where cabinets may not be perfectly plumb. While providing some resistance to opening, they should not be substituted for true safety latches if the goal is to keep little children from access to a cabinet.

1. Place the magnetic base on the lower cabinet shelf. Align the front of the base with the front edge of the shelf, and make pencil marks in the base's mounting holes.

2. Drill pilot holes at the pencil marks. The size of drill bit may vary depending on the manufacturer, but it's usually a small diameter, such as 1/16-inch.

3. Screw the magnetic base to the shelf with a screwdriver. Do not use a drill with a screwdriver bit, as you risk stripping the screws out of the wood.

4. Place the striker against the inside of the cabinet door, and position it so it is directly across from the magnet when the door is closed. Drill a pilot hole in the door using the screw hole in the striker as a guide. Screw the striker to the door using the supplied countersunk screw.

5. Close the door and check that the magnet holds the door closed. If the force required to open the door seems weak, loosen the screws on the magnet base, slide the base forward, then re-tighten the screws.