9 Types of Pull Handles: Styles, Finishes, and Where to Use Them

Pull handles add ease and style wherever you install them. Whether on a kitchen drawer or a front door, the proper handle simplifies daily tasks and enhances the look of your space. There is a style and finish to suit every decor and need. Read on to find basic pull handle types and special product lines that could work for your home.

Cabinet Pull Handles

Cabinet pull handles are found on kitchen cupboards, bathroom vanities, and storage units. They come in classic bar shapes, curved designs, and modern minimalist strips. A well-chosen cabinet pull handle feels sturdy, sits comfortably in your hand, and matches your cabinet finish. It can be subtle in timber-tone rooms or a neat accent in white or painted cabinets.

Door Pull Handles

Door pull handles fit on sliding, interior, and even entry gates. They are larger than those on drawers, offering a secure grip each time you open or close a door. You will find styles from straight bars to gentle curves and finishes, including satin nickel, matte black and polished chrome. Good door pull handles sit at the right height and have a solid and reliable shape.

Recessed Pull Handles

Recessed pull handles sit flush with the surface. They work well on pocket doors, sliding panels and furniture where a protruding handle might catch on clothing. You push a finger into a small recess to open doors or drawers. These handles suit spaces where you want a clean look or need to maximise room between adjacent panels.

Bar Pull Handles

Bar pull handles are long, straight handles fixed at two points. They give a modern feel and suit contemporary kitchens and offices. You can choose a length to match wide drawers, tall cabinets or even full-height pantry doors. Straight bar pull handles in metal finishes work with simple cabinet fronts and add a refined edge to shaker-style joinery.

Drawer Pull Handles

Drawer pull handles come in bar and bow shapes and fit kitchen benches, bedside drawers, and office filing cabinets. A comfortable grip is vital when opening a deep drawer full of dishes or clothes. Choose a handle with enough projection from the face so your hand slides in easily. Steel, brass, and aluminium versions are standard, each offering long-lasting performance.

Finger Pull Handles

Finger pull handles are small metal or timber recesses built into drawer or door edges. They suit minimal designs and modern kitchens where you want joinery fronts uninterrupted. Look for sturdy metal or hardwood finger pulls that won’t wear out. These handles are great on slim drawers, glass cabinets and high-gloss panels.

Aluminium Pull Handles

Aluminium pull handles are light and corrosion-resistant. They are available in satin, anodised, or brushed finishes. They suit bathroom cabinets, outdoor joinery, and kitchens where moisture is present. Anodised aluminium handles resist scratches and stay looking fresh for years. Aluminium is an intelligent choice if you want a strong handle that stays strong under heavy use.

Chrome Pull Handles

Chrome pull handles are versatile and suitable for both classic and modern settings. Their shiny chrome finish lifts shaker-style kitchens and complements polished taps and tapware. Chrome handles are available in straight bars, curved bows, and ring shapes. They are hard-wearing and easy to clean—a wipe with a soft cloth restores their shine in seconds.

Black Pull Handles

Black pull handles suit kitchens, laundry walls, and bathroom vanities. A matte black finish brings a bold yet timeless look. They pair well with white cabinets, natural timber tones, and dark joinery. You can use black pull handles on drawers and doors to create a subtle contrast or carry the same tone across all furniture for a sleek, unified feel.

Wrapping Up

Pull handles come in many shapes and finishes to meet daily needs and lift interior style. Think about what you open most often and pick a handle that feels good in your hand. A well-chosen pull handle blends with your decor and stands up to regular use. With the proper handle, every cupboard and door becomes easier to open, adding a little extra style.If you need help choosing pull handles for your kitchen cabinetry, drawers, and cupboards, call Handles and More at 02 9757 4400. Our team is happy to assist you.