Concealed Hinge - Hidden Cabinet Hinge Repair and Care

A concealed hinge is a cabinet or door hinge designed to be hidden from view when the door is closed.

What It Is

In residential construction, concealed hinges are most commonly used on cabinet doors so the hardware does not show on the face frame or door edge when closed. The hinge body mounts behind the door and cabinet opening, usually with a cup bored into the back of the door and an adjustable arm attached to the cabinet side or frame plate.

Their hidden design is not just cosmetic. Concealed hinges also allow precise adjustment for door alignment, overlay, and closing action, which is why they are standard on most modern kitchen and bath cabinetry.

Types

Common types include full-overlay, half-overlay, and inset concealed hinges, along with soft-close and push-to-open versions. The exact hinge depends on cabinet construction and how the door sits relative to the opening.

Where It Is Used

Concealed hinges are used on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, built-ins, wardrobes, and some specialty interior doors. They are especially common where a clean finished look and easy adjustment are important.

How to Identify One

A concealed hinge is visible only when the cabinet or door is open. On cabinets, you will usually see a round cup recessed into the back of the door and a multi-piece hinge arm connecting it to a mounting plate.

Replacement

Replacement is needed when the hinge arm bends, the cup pulls loose, the adjustment screws strip, or the soft-close function fails. The replacement has to match the cabinet overlay, cup size, and mounting pattern or the door will not align correctly.

Concealed Hinge — FAQ

What is the difference between a concealed hinge and a regular hinge?

A regular hinge is visible when the door is closed, while a concealed hinge is hidden behind the door. Concealed hinges are also more adjustable, especially on cabinet doors.

Why does my cabinet door not line up anymore?

The concealed hinge may be loose, bent, or out of adjustment. In many cases the door can be realigned with the hinge screws, but worn or damaged hinges need replacement.

Are all concealed hinges the same size?

No. Cup diameter, overlay style, opening angle, and mounting plate pattern all vary. A hinge that looks similar can still be the wrong replacement.

Can a soft-close concealed hinge be replaced with a standard one?

Usually yes if the mounting pattern and cabinet geometry match, but you will lose the soft-close function. Many homeowners prefer to replace both hinges on the door so the operation stays consistent.