Best Magnetic Door Catches for Custom Storage in York: 2025 Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Bespoke Fittings Specialist
It's a common issue in York's older properties: you fit a beautiful set of alcove cupboards, but due to slight movements in the floor or the natural warp of timber in damp conditions, the doors won't stay shut comfortably. Standard plastic roller catches often snap or lose their grip after a year.
In my joinery business, I see this constantly. Whether it's restoring Victorian sash window shutters or fitting modern shaker-style alcove units, the hardware makes all the difference. You need a catch that accommodates the slight 'movement' natural to timber construction without looking cumbersome.
In this review, I've selected three stainless steel magnetic catches I use on site. I'll cover a budget option for standard cupboards, a heavy-duty beast for large wardrobe doors, and a mid-range problem solver for those tricky doors that just won't behave.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Pull Force (Pull Strength)"
"Manufacturers state pull ratings like '8kg' or '50kg' assuming perfect contact between magnet and plate."
In older York homes, doors rarely sit perfectly flat. If the plate hits the magnet at an angle, holding power drops by 50%. Always over-spec the strength slightly to account for this.
The Spec: "Stainless Steel 'Rustproof' Claims"
"The product is touted as completely rust-free for damp environments."
While 304 stainless steel magnets are durable, the screws provided in the packet are often cheap mild steel. If you're fitting these in a bathroom or a damp Victorian hallway, buy your own stainless steel screws to prevent rust streaks.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
ASelected Magnetic Door Catch, 4 Pack 8 KG Pull, Stainless Steel
ASelected
For standard alcove shelving units or under-sink cupboards, this 4-pack represents excellent value. The 8kg pull is sufficient for standard 18mm MDF or softwood doors up to 600mm wide without making them difficult to open.
The Good
- Incredible value at just over £1 per catch
- Slotted holes allow for adjustment (vital for fitting doors perfectly)
- Low profile (16mm thick) fits neatly inside carcasses
The Bad
- 8kg is too weak for tall wardrobe doors or heavy hardwood
- Included adhesive is rarely strong enough for joinery use – always screw fix
Installer Tip:
Throw away the double-sided tape. In joinery, we always screw fix for longevity. When fitting to oak or hardwood, drill a 2mm pilot hole first, as the heads on these smaller screws can snap off if forced.
Priced at £4.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonJiayi Heavy Duty Large Pantry Door Magnets 50KG Pull
Jiayi
This is a serious piece of kit for problematic or heavy doors. If you have floor-to-ceiling alcove wardrobes or solid oak doors that keep drifting open due to 'springy' hinges, this 50kg magnet will lock them solid. It's industrial strength but neat enough for domestic use.
The Good
- Massive holding power – solves the issue of heavy doors drifting open
- 304 grade stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance
- Robust housing won't crack like plastic alternatives
The Bad
- 50kg pull is difficult for children or elderly users to open
- Requires a solid fixing point – cannot be screwed into thin plywood backs
Installer Tip:
Caution: This magnet is very strong. Ensure your cabinet carcass is securely fixed to the wall. If the cabinet is free-standing and light, pulling the door to overcome the 50kg magnet might actually tip the unit forward!
Priced at £15.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonJiayi 2 Pack Cupboard Door Magnets Heavy Duty 40KG Pull
Jiayi
The 40kg option sits in the 'Goldilocks' zone. It's stronger than standard catches but not as aggressive as the 50kg version. I find this perfect for older properties in York where a door might have a slight twist (warp). The strong pull pulls the timber flat against the frame, improving the look of the joinery.
The Good
- Strong enough to pull slightly warped doors flush
- Good balance of security and ease of opening
- Stainless construction suits damp pantry cupboards
The Bad
- Body is relatively long (97mm), so check you have space on the frame
- Screws provided could be higher quality
Installer Tip:
Use these when you have double doors (French style) on a cupboard. Fit one to the 'fixed' leaf (top and bottom) to hold it efficienty in place without needing bolt latches, then just use a standard standard latch for the opening leaf.
Priced at £8.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Why do my cupboard doors keep popping open?
Can I install these magnetic catches myself?
Magnet vs Roller Catch: Which is better for joinery?
Do I need the heavy-duty 50kg version?
Can DR Joinery fit these for me?
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