Magnetic latches (11)
Short answer: you make a magnetic catch with a pot magnet with a countersunk hole in the cabinet and a steel counter ring (or second magnet) in the door. For most cabinet doors, a pot magnet of Ø13 to Ø20 mm is sufficient. If you want to get it right the first time, choose the cabinet door catch set: 4 complete catches, more affordable than buying them separately.
Which magnetic catch is right for your door?
| Application | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Light cabinet door, drawer or hatch | Pot magnet Ø13 mm (approx. 5.5 kg) or Ø16 mm (approx. 7.3 kg) with steel ring |
| Standard cabinet door, kitchen cabinet | Pot magnet Ø16 or Ø20 mm (approx. 11 kg) with steel ring |
| Large or heavy door, flap, panel | Pot magnet Ø25 or Ø32 mm (approx. 21 kg), possibly two |
| Multiple doors at once | Cabinet door catch set with 4 catches |
A catch that is too strong is annoying: the door will be difficult to open. So do not automatically choose the largest size. The holding force per product is measured on thick steel; on a thin steel ring and with a small gap, the force is much lower in practice, and that is usually just right for a cabinet door.
How to install a magnetic catch
- Screw the pot magnet flush into or onto the cabinet edge using a flat-head screw.
- Screw the steel ring of the same diameter directly opposite the magnet on the door.
- Test the door. If it is too tight, leave a small gap (1 to 2 mm) between the magnet and the ring, or choose a smaller size.
Read more tips in How do you install a magnet? If you do not want a clicking sound, stick a rubber protective disc on the ring.
Magnet and ring, or two magnets?
A magnet with a steel ring is the standard: you do not need to pay attention to the poles and the force can be easily adjusted. Two magnets (north and south) hold stronger and click shut more clearly, but then the poles must be positioned correctly opposite each other. That is why the cabinet door catch set contains north and south magnets and steel counter rings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a magnetic catch and a magnetic door stopper?
It is the same: a magnet that keeps a door closed. A ready-made magnetic door stopper from the hardware store usually has a plastic housing with a weaker ferrite magnet. With a neodymium pot magnet you have more force in a much smaller size, and you can hide it flush.
Can I also use this to keep a door open?
Yes, a pot magnet of Ø25 or Ø32 mm with a steel ring works well as a door holder for an inward-opening door. For drafts or a heavy door, it is better to choose Ø32 mm.
Which screws do I need?
Flat-head screws (countersunk head) that fit in the countersunk hole. The hole size is stated with each product.
Does a magnetic catch work through a layer of wood or plastic?
A thin layer can work, but every millimeter of distance costs force. Read more in Can magnets work through wood, glass and plastic?
Note: neodymium magnets are strong. Keep them away from small children, pacemakers and bank cards.
