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Are soft close drawers standard in new homes?

Increasingly yes. Many volume builders now include soft close drawers as standard in kitchens. However, some entry-level builds still include standard drawers — always confirm in your contract.

How much do soft close drawers cost to upgrade?

Typically $500–$1,500 to upgrade a full kitchen from standard to soft close drawers. The cost has fallen significantly as it's become more mainstream.

Do soft close hinges come with the drawers?

Usually yes — a builder specifying soft close drawers will typically also include soft close hinges on cupboard doors. Confirm both are included.

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Kitchens

Soft Close Drawers Worth It?

Are soft close kitchen drawers worth the upgrade in a new home? Cost, quality difference, and what builders include as standard.

4 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Cost estimates only: Any building or upgrade figures in this guide are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Costs and inclusions vary by project, supplier, location and time. Confirm current written prices and specifications directly with your builder, suppliers and relevant trades.

Introduction

Soft close drawers use a hydraulic dampening mechanism that prevents drawers and doors from slamming — they gently pull closed from a few centimetres out. Once considered a luxury, soft close hardware has become a baseline expectation in new Australian homes. But it's still not universal in all base prices.

Feature	Standard Drawers	Soft Close Drawers
Closing mechanism	No dampening	Hydraulic soft close
Noise	Can slam	Silent close
Durability	Good	Better — less impact stress
Standard inclusion	Entry level	Mid to upper volume builders
Upgrade cost	—	+$500 – $1,500
Buyer expectation	Below average	Standard expectation

Common Builder Inclusions

›Soft close drawers and hinges are now standard with most mid-range and premium builders
›Entry-level builder contracts may still include standard (non-soft close) hardware
›Soft close is usually applied to kitchen, bathroom vanities and wardrobes when specified
›Ask your builder: 'Are soft close drawers and hinges included throughout the home?'

Tip

If soft close is not standard in your builder's base price, it's one of the most negotiable upgrades — often achievable for minimal extra cost, especially if bundled with other kitchen upgrades.