Can I mix and match kitchen unit brands?

[Zitouna]

I have some spare Howdens kitchen units (builder messed up the order so got some replacement units but kept the old ones). I want to use them to fit out my basement utility room - it will be not quite half of the units I need.

On a v v tight budget so would like to get the rest of the units more cheaply if possible (thinking Wickes or DIY kitchens). But not sure if kitchen carcasses are a standard size? Can I mix and match carcasses or not? Google has been surprisingly unhelpful!

there was a change in standard height some years ago. Maybe an inch or so. I think the newer ones are a bit bigger. Don't remember quite when. But measure your units (excluding legs) for height. Door hinges may need to be repositioned on the cabinet sides but that's easy.

Cabinet widths have not changed, at 300/400/500/600mm (doors are I think 3mm less to allow space to open and shut without rubbing on each other).

It won't show if you use doors that fit whatever your taller units are. And you can align the height of the installed units (and therefore the worktop height) by adjusting the screw-legs.

Ikea may be abnormal sizes.

If you need new cabinets, have a look on ebay. There are always surplus stocks and clearances. Readymade are generally better quality than self-assembly. There is also a company called Benhamin James that sells good readymade units in a wide range cheaper than the sheds or showrooms. Lots of other companies too, but the cheaper ones are aimed at skinflint landlords.

For maximim saving, trawl ebay for local people throwing out a perfectly good kitchen every five years. You will need a van, two burly women, and someone who can use a screwdriver.

@PigletJohn that’s brilliant thanks so much!

The minimum order quantity with DIY is £750 unless you're adding after a previous order so that may them out anyway.