Choosing the right cabinet pull size is one of the most common problems for kitchen designers, cabinet makers, and homeowners. Pick the wrong size, and the hardware looks off — too small for a large drawer, too long for a narrow door. This guide covers the key measurements you need and how to match pull size to cabinet type.
What Is Center-to-Center (C-C)?
Center-to-center (C-C) is the distance between the two mounting holes on a pull. It is the most important measurement when choosing hardware. In North America, the most common sizes are 96mm and 128mm. Larger drawers and appliance panels often use 160mm, 192mm, or 320mm pulls.
If you are replacing existing hardware, measure the distance between the two screw holes on your current pull. That measurement is your C-C. Match it exactly, or you will need to drill new holes.
Standard Pull Sizes and Where to Use Them
96mm (3-3/4″) — Standard kitchen cabinet doors and small drawers. The most common size in US kitchens.
128mm (5″) — Wider drawers, pantry doors, and base cabinets. A good middle-ground size.
160mm (6-1/4″) — Large drawers, appliance panels, and tall cabinet doors.
192mm and above — Oversized drawers, wardrobes, and integrated appliance handles.
For a cohesive look, many designers use one size for all upper cabinets and a longer size for lower drawers.
Pull Size for Different Cabinet Types
Kitchen upper cabinets: 96mm or 128mm
Kitchen lower drawers: 128mm to 160mm
Pantry doors: 160mm or longer
Wardrobe doors: 192mm to 320mm
Bathroom vanities: 96mm to 128mm
How to Measure Before You Buy
Step 1: Measure the center-to-center distance of your existing holes.
Step 2: Check the overall length (L) to make sure the pull fits the door width.
Step 3: Check the projection (how far the pull sticks out) to ensure it does not hit adjacent cabinets.
If you are starting from scratch, a good rule of thumb is that the pull should be about one-third of the drawer or door width.
What About Knobs vs. Pulls?
Knobs are single-hole and work well on small doors and drawers. Pulls are two-hole and are easier to grab on larger drawers. Many kitchens mix both — knobs on doors, pulls on drawers.
Finish and Material Matter Too
Size is not the only factor. Matte black and brushed nickel are the top-selling finishes in North America. Zinc alloy and aluminum are the most common materials for modern cabinet hardware.
Need Help Choosing?
At Sylvastones, we supply bar pulls, T-bar pulls, knobs, and edge pulls in standard US sizes. If you are not sure which size fits your project, send us your cabinet specifications and we will help you match the right hardware.
