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How to assemble and install a pantry

Pantry with multiple shelves

Overview

Installing your own pantry cabinet is a great way to maximise storage and update your kitchen. With a little planning and the right tools, it’s a straightforward D.I.Y. project you can tackle in an afternoon. Here’s how to assemble and install a freestanding pantry cabinet.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Assemble the top and back panels

Begin by joining the top panel to the back panel. Double-check the orientation of the pre-drilled holes to ensure they’re facing the correct direction for assembly. For added strength, apply a line of exterior woodworking glue along the edges before securing the panels with screws. This creates a sturdy starting point for the cabinet frame.
Assemble the top and back panels using cordless drill

2Attach the side panels

Secure the side panels one at a time to the assembled top and back panels. Make sure each panel is properly aligned with the edges and corners before applying glue. Once glued, screw them firmly in place to complete the cabinet sides. This helps build out the structure and ensures stability for the next stage.
Attach the side panels using a cordless drill

3Attach the bottom panel

With the sides in place, attach the bottom panel to complete the box structure of the cabinet. Again, apply exterior woodworking glue to the joining edges before fastening the panel with screws. Once this is done, the frame of your pantry cabinet will be solid and ready for the adjustable feet.
Attach the bottom panel using cordless drill

4Fit the adjustable feet

Turn the cabinet carefully so you can access the underside of the bottom panel. Insert the adjustable feet into the pre-drilled holes and screw them in. Make sure each foot is set to a height of 145mm. This ensures that your pantry cabinet sits level and aligns neatly with surrounding cabinetry once installed.
D.I.Y. - Step 4 - How to assemble and install a pantry 

5Check for an end panel allowance

Before moving the pantry into its final position, check whether it will be installed up against a wall. If it is, you’ll need to allow space for an end panel. These panels are usually 18mm thick, but it’s important to confirm the measurement for your specific product. Allowing the correct clearance ensures a neat, flush fit once the panel is installed.
Check for an end panel allowance using a measuring tape

6Locate the wall studs

Use a stud finder to identify the location of the wall studs where the pantry cabinet will be secured. Mark each stud location clearly with a pencil so you know exactly where to anchor the cabinet. This step is important to ensure the pantry is fixed to solid framing for a safe and stable installation. With the wall studs marked, turn your attention to the back panel of the cabinet. Mark out the areas that align with your wall stud positions, then pre-drill holes through the back panel. Doing this now will save time later and make it much easier to secure the pantry once it’s in position.
Locate the wall studs using a stud finder

7Attach the hinge plates

Before moving the cabinet into position, attach the hinge plates to the inside of the pantry. Begin by detaching the hinge arms from the mounting plates - usually done by pressing a release tab. Align the elongated holes of each plate with the pre-drilled holes inside the cabinet. If your hinges include plastic positioning lugs, use these to assist with alignment. Secure each plate with screws. You can temporarily clip on the doors to check for alignment, but remove them again before installation to avoid damage during handling.
Attach the hinge plates using a cordless drill

8Position and fix the pantry to the wall

Carefully move the pantry into place. Use a spirit level to ensure it is sitting square and that all four adjustable feet are touching the floor. Adjust the feet as needed to get everything level. Once you’re happy with the positioning, screw the cabinet into the wall studs using the fixing holes you prepared earlier.
Position and fix the pantry to the wall

9Install the end panel

Clamp the end panel to the side of the pantry, ensuring it extends out by 20mm for a clean finish. The rounded edge of the panel should face outwards. The bottom of the panel should sit flush on the floor. On uneven surfaces, some trimming may be necessary for a proper fit. Pre-drill screw holes through the cabinet into the panel and fasten it securely in place.
Install the end panel to the side of the pantry

10Reattach the doors

Clip the doors for the pantry back onto the hinge plates inside the pantry. Check that the doors open and close smoothly, and adjust the hinges as needed to ensure proper alignment and even spacing.
Reattach the doors for the pantry back onto the hinge plates

11Fit the shelves

Insert the pantry shelf supports at your chosen heights, ensuring they’re level and seated securely. Then slide the shelves into place, resting them on the supports for a customisable and functional storage solution.
Fit the shelves into position inside the pantry

12Now that you’ve installed a pantry

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.