Everything You Need to Know About Kitchen Cabinet Handles

Selecting kitchen cabinet hardware from the many existing styles is a bit like being a kid in a candy shop; it’s fun at first but can quickly become overwhelming. Familiarizing yourself with some of the most common options beforehand will help you keep your mind on the prize when you start shopping. Use this guide to understand your options and ensure that shopping for kitchen cabinet knobs and pulls is always as easy as can be. 

In general, there are two kinds of kitchen cabinet hardware types: handles or pulls and knobs.

Types of Drawer Pulls 

Pulls and handles come in an array of different sizes and styles that are suitable for a huge variety of aesthetics. Typically, they can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on what’s most convenient for you. Cabinet handles are placed horizontally on drawers and vertically on cabinets for easy use, but you can always mix them up to suit your preferences. 

Get to know five of the most common drawer pull styles below. 

1. Cup Pulls

Cup pulls, also known as bin pulls, are shaped like handles on a trash bin—domed and perfectly sized for placing your hand. These are beloved for their ability to add a vintage or rustic touch to just about any space. Use a brushed brass version to complete your cottage-core inspired kitchen, or a polished nickel variety to add warmth to your minimalist cooking space. 

2. Handle Pulls

Handle pulls, also known as bar pulls, are characterized by their length. They’re usually composed of a long metal bar and two shorter ones that attach to the cabinetry. They’re perfect for a sleek, polished modern setup but are also a great, basic option for any kind of aesthetic. 

3. Drop Bail Pulls

If you’re into antiques, drop bail pulls are the perfect way to transport your kitchen drawers to another era. This style features a handle attached to a cabinet with hinges so that it can move up and down. Often ornate in design, they were a common feature of late 19th and early 20th century homes and can still be an excellent way to add a touch of elegance to any abode. 

4. Finger Pulls

Finger pulls feature a short, downward curved handle that’s the ideal size for opening up drawers and cabinets with just a couple of fingers. This style of cabinet handle can do so much, from adding an extra flourish to an already glamorous space to giving your kitchen an industrial flair.

5. Appliance Pulls

Appliance pulls are simply longer versions of handle pulls, although sometimes they feature two long handles instead of one.

Types of Cabinet Knobs 

There’s an almost infinite number of cabinet knob styles, and they all function in primarily the same way. Keep reading to learn about the most common options. 

1. Mushroom Knobs

As the name suggests, mushroom knobs are shaped like a mushroom, and they’re useful on almost all types of cabinetry—not just in the kitchen. You can rarely go wrong with an option as reliable and classic as this one. 

2. Round or Oval Knobs

These kitchen cabinet knobs are ideal for spaces that already feature a lot of hard edges. This category has plenty of options that will help you further the aesthetic of your space. Use a gold-finished oval knob to add contrast and luxury to an all-white kitchen, or use a warm, wooden knob to soften an industrial space.

3. Square or Rectangular Knobs

On the flipside, square or rectangular knobs are perfect for homes that are full of curved and organic factors, like lots of plant life or soft textiles. They’re also slightly easier to grip and handle than round or oval knobs, some of which can be difficult to grasp firmly. 

4. Conical Knobs

This kind of knob is shaped like an hourglass and will give your kitchen cabinets a futuristic, Jetsons-inspired atmosphere in no time. 

5. Cylindrical Knobs 

Shaped like a cylinder or tube, this type of knob is ideal for modern and futuristic homes as well. Some options also feature finger indents for easier gripping. 

6. Bar Knobs

Bar knobs are smaller versions of drawer pulls or handles, but you can only grasp them with a finger or two rather than a whole hand.

Choosing Between Knobs and Handles or Pulls

Both knobs and handles or pulls come in countless different shapes and finishes that can be ideal for almost any design style, from hyper-modern to farmhouse chic. Knobs are smaller, typically more affordable, and easier to install than pulls. 

On the other hand, pulls are much wider and longer, making them slightly more difficult to install but easier to use. If you need help installing your new cabinet hardware, call a handyperson who can get your cabinets looking new.  

Many homeowners and interior designers mix and match knobs and pulls to great success. Keep in mind that you’ll get the best, most cohesive results by matching the style and finish of each option and picking hardware that matches your cabinets. Though mixing metal finishes isn’t off the table with a few great tips up your sleeve.