5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Decorative Hardware Online

When upgrading your space, even the smallest details—like cabinet knobs or door handles—can make the biggest impact. But shopping for hardware online can be tricky if you don’t know what to look out for.

At Glitters Hardware, we want to help you make the right choice the first time. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when buying hardware online:

1. Ignoring Measurements

One of the most common mistakes is overlooking the exact size of your hardware. A knob that looks perfect in a photo might feel too small—or too bulky—once installed. Always check product dimensions, hole spacing (for pulls), and compare them to your existing fittings before ordering.

Tip: Use tape or paper cutouts to visualize sizes on your cabinets or doors.

2. Not Reading Customer Reviews

Real user feedback can reveal quality, ease of installation, color accuracy, and durability that product descriptions won’t. Skipping reviews can lead to costly surprises.

At Glitters Hardware, our products are backed by numerous honest reviews from happy customers, so you can shop with full confidence, knowing you're getting exactly what’s promised. We take every piece of feedback seriously and continuously work towards betterment, so you always get the best experience possible.

3. Not Checking Finish Compatibility

Finishes can look different depending on lighting or screen settings. Brushed brass, PVD gold, —they’re not all the same. Mixing metals in a space can work, but only when it’s intentional.

Pro tip: Stick to one or two finishes in a space for a cohesive look—or order a sample if you’re unsure.

Go through the finishes offered by Glitters Hardware, here.

4. Forgetting About Door/Drawer Thickness

Hardware comes with screws and fittings designed for specific panel thicknesses. Ordering without checking your door or drawer thickness can lead to installation issues.

At Glitters Hardware, we recommend leaving a note at checkout or contacting us before placing your order so we can provide the right fittings for a perfect installation.

5. Overlooking the Installation Process

Some styles are more complex to install than others—especially mortise sets. It’s important to know what tools and steps are needed before you commit.

Solution: Download our installation guides (also available on our product pages) and reach out if you need help—our team’s here to guide you through it.

Shopping online for hardware can be a seamless experience if you avoid these common mistakes. At Glitters Hardware, we take pride in offering detailed specs, finish guides, and real customer support to help you choose with confidence.

Need help picking the right piece? Drop us a message or explore our collection for timeless, design-forward hardware that lasts.