Pantry and Fridge Latch System

Several people have asked how we keep the fridge doors latched. Basically, we use a door lock latch, like this one. (Click for details!)

We started with adhesive child lock latches on the fridge, but it was weak and would pop open occasionally for a big surprise when driving – not the safest.

The inspiration came from the pantry system I built, which used a double set of these latches from the beginning. They were holding back a pretty significant weight from rolling open.

I made a slight adjustment by putting the latch on a small extension. It keeps the fridge and freezer from opening fairly well. Maybe someday I’ll replace it with a matching color.

I think I installed that latch somewhere in Montana after getting tired of it popping open, and the hardware store only had a brown one.

In addition to the latches for the fridge and pantry, we have a different style of cabinet latch for the drawers. I used some marine latch buttons, that look nice.

These latches I modified slightly by extending the button to the front, and the latch at the rear on each of the drawers, to account for the type of frame I used. With a little bit of planning they work quite well.

Here’s a typical pushrod adapter setup for one of the bigger drawers. You can see how there’s a rail guide and mount point for remote installation of the latch, which is presented forward to the face.