How to Fix a Loose Cabinet Hinge

Quick answer: To fix a loose cabinet hinge, tighten the mounting screws first; if the screw holes are stripped, remove the hinge, insert wooden toothpicks or golf tees with wood glue into the stripped holes, let it dry, then reattach the hinge into the repaired holes.

Step-by-Step Repair

1. Tighten existing screws first — sometimes a loose hinge simply needs the screws snugged back up with a screwdriver.
2. Check for stripped holes — if screws spin freely without tightening, the wood around the hole has likely stripped out.
3. Remove the hinge completely from the cabinet.
4. Fill stripped holes with wood glue and insert wooden toothpicks or a golf tee, breaking off any excess above the surface.
5. Let the glue dry fully — typically 30–60 minutes minimum, though overnight is ideal for full strength.
6. Drill a small pilot hole into the dried filler material to guide the new screw.
7. Reattach the hinge, driving screws into the freshly repaired holes.
8. Test the door by opening and closing it several times to confirm the hinge now holds securely.

When to Replace the Hinge Instead

If the hinge itself is bent, cracked, or the soft-close mechanism no longer functions smoothly even after tightening, replace the hinge entirely rather than repairing the mounting holes.

Tools Needed

Screwdriver, wood glue, toothpicks or golf tees, a small drill bit, and a utility knife.

FAQ

Why do cabinet hinges become loose over time? Repeated opening and closing gradually loosens screws in the wood, especially in higher-use cabinets like those near the sink or trash.

Can I use a longer screw instead of repairing the hole? Sometimes, if the panel is thick enough to support a longer screw without poking through the other side — but repairing the hole is generally the more reliable long-term fix.

How do I know if I need a new hinge versus a repair? If tightening screws and repairing the mounting holes doesn't resolve sagging or misalignment, the hinge mechanism itself may be worn out and need replacement.

Are soft-close hinges harder to repair than standard hinges? No — the mounting and repair process is essentially the same; only the internal closing mechanism differs.