When ordering new furniture handles, the centre-to-centre distance is the key measurement. It tells you whether a handle fits the existing holes in your cabinet or drawer. Measuring carefully helps avoid returns and unnecessary drilling.
What does centre-to-centre mean?
It is the distance from the centre of one fixing hole to the centre of the other, normally expressed in millimetres. Common sizes include 96, 128, 160, 192, 224 and 320 mm. A replacement with the same spacing can usually use the existing holes, provided the rest of the fitting is suitable.
How to measure
- Remove an old handle.
- Use a ruler or tape measure to measure between the centres of the holes.
- Record the measurement in millimetres and check the other doors and drawers too.
Always measure centre to centre, rather than between the outer edges. If the old handle is missing, measure the holes in the furniture front directly.
Overall length is different
A handle with 128 mm hole spacing is usually longer than 128 mm overall. Its total length depends on the design. Choose a replacement by its fixing distance first, then check overall dimensions, finger clearance and the screw length.
What if there are no existing holes?
On a new front you can choose the spacing to suit the proportions of the furniture. Compact handles may suit small fronts, while longer models can work well on wide drawers or tall doors. Check the position before drilling.
Can I choose a different spacing?
Usually this means drilling new holes and filling or covering the old ones. To reuse the current holes, choose the same centre-to-centre distance. Do not force a handle into holes that do not line up.
Explore our furniture handles or handles with 160 mm hole spacing. For help, contact our customer service team.