Cost estimates only: Any building, material or upgrade figures on this page are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Confirm current written costs, specifications and inclusions directly with your builder, supplier or relevant trade.
What Is Soft Close Cabinetry?
Soft close is a mechanism built into cabinet door hinges and drawer runners that uses a hydraulic damper to slow and silently close the door or drawer for the last 10–20mm of travel. Instead of slamming shut, the door or drawer gently eases itself closed.
In new home builds, soft close cabinetry refers to the kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and laundry cupboards being fitted with this mechanism. It's one of the most noticeable quality indicators when buyers walk through a display home.
Note
How Soft Close Works
Soft close cabinet mechanisms use a small hydraulic damper — similar in principle to a door closer — that engages when the door or drawer is pushed to within a short distance of the closed position. A spring mechanism then assists the final closure gently and quietly.
Key hardware brands in the Australian market include:
- Blum (Austria): Industry benchmark. Clip-top hinges and Tandembox/Legrabox drawer systems. Widely used by quality builders.
- Hettich (Germany): Similar quality to Blum. InnoTech drawer systems with soft close as standard.
- Grass (Austria): Premium European brand. Used in higher-end cabinetry.
- Chinese equivalents: Lower cost. Quality varies significantly. Common in budget builder packages.
Soft Close Doors vs Soft Close Drawers
These are two separate components and are often included (or excluded) independently:
| Component | Description | Typical Builder Inclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Close Hinges | Slow-close damper on cabinet doors (kitchen, bathroom, laundry) | Usually included by most builders |
| Soft Close Drawer Runners | Slow-close mechanism on drawer slides | Included by mid-to-upper builders; varies at entry level |
| Push-to-Open | No handle — push to activate spring-loaded release | Typically an upgrade or custom design choice |
| Full Extension Runners | Drawers that extend fully for complete access | Standard on some builders, upgrade on others |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Silent kitchen — no cabinet slamming
- Reduces wear and tear on cabinet hinges and drawer faces
- Child safety — drawers can't slam on small fingers
- Premium feel that buyers notice immediately
- Very affordable upgrade if not included as standard
- Quality mechanisms last the life of the home
Cons
- Some entry-level builder packages don't include drawers
- Cheap soft close mechanisms lose function over time
- Drawers won't stay shut if the cabinet is not level
- Dampers can fail and require replacement on cheaper brands
Included or Upgrade?
Typically Included
Soft Close Hinges to All Cabinet Doors
Standard on most mid-to-upper volume builders. Entry-level packages may vary. Confirm in your inclusions document.
Varies by Builder
Soft Close Drawer Runners (All Drawers)
Included by many builders but not universal. Some include soft close drawers to kitchen only, not bathrooms. Verify in your specific inclusions list.
Typically an Upgrade
Push-to-Open (Handleless Cabinetry)
A design choice that removes door handles from cabinets. Usually a paid upgrade or custom option, particularly when applied throughout the whole kitchen.
Common Builder Upgrades
Common Builder Upgrade
Soft Close Drawers to Bathrooms and Laundry
Common Builder Upgrade
Blum Hardware Upgrade
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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