Diagnose why your cupboard door won't stay shut, then adjust, tighten or replace the catch so it closes properly again.
CDC-01Check how the door is failingClose the door a few times and watch what happens. Does it swing open on its own, feel loose, or simply not line up with the frame? Look at the existing catch - most cupboards use a small magnetic catch, a spring-loaded roller catch, or a ball catch fitted between the door and the carcass. If the door itself has dropped, the hinges are usually the real problem, not the catch.
CDC-02Remove the old catchUndo the screws holding the catch body and its matching strike plate with a cross-head or flat screwdriver. Keep the screws to one side - you can often reuse them. If a hole is worn or stripped, don't worry, this is easy to fix later with a matchstick and wood glue.
CDC-03Fit a new catch if the old one is worn or brokenBuy a replacement magnetic or roller catch of the same type from a DIY shop or hardware store. Screw the catch body to the inside of the cabinet frame first, then gently close the door to mark exactly where the strike plate needs to sit. Screw the strike plate onto the door at that mark, using the existing pilot holes if they line up.
CDC-04Repair worn or stripped screw holesIf a screw just spins without gripping, take it out, dab wood glue onto a matchstick or cocktail stick, and push it into the hole. Snap it off flush with the surface and leave the glue to dry for about 20 minutes. Drive the screw back in once set - it will bite properly now. This is common on chipboard cabinet carcasses, which strip easily.
CDC-05Reposition the catch or strike plate for a better gripIf the catch itself is fine but the door still won't hold shut, loosen the strike plate screws slightly and slide the plate a couple of millimetres closer to the magnet or roller before retightening. Close the door and check it holds without needing to slam it. Small shifts of just a few millimetres usually sort this out.
CDC-06Check the hinges if the door still doesn't sit rightA door that hangs unevenly will never meet the catch properly, however well you adjust it. Tighten any loose hinge screws, and repair stripped holes the same way as before, with a glued matchstick. If the hinge has adjustment screws, use them to shift the door slightly until it sits square in the frame.
CDC-07Test and tidy upOpen and close the door ten or so times to make sure the catch holds firmly and the door doesn't swing open on its own. Wipe away any dust or wood shavings left from drilling or filing. Put any spare screws or leftover catch parts in a labelled bag in case you need them again.
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