When people think about making their homes more accessible, the conversation often turns to expensive renovations—widening doorways, knocking down walls, or installing custom hardware. If you have a narrow doorway and need a more accessible entrance or exit—whether for yourself, a loved one, or a guest using a walker or wheelchair—you might assume that kind of major construction is your only option.
But there’s a smarter, low-cost solution that can make a big difference without tearing anything down: offset hinges. This simple upgrade can give you an extra couple of inches of clearance and dramatically improve accessibility in tight spaces.
What Are Offset Hinges?
Also known as “swing clear hinges,” offset hinges are specially designed to move the door completely out of the doorway when opened. Unlike standard hinges, which keep part of the door in the opening, offset hinges shift the pivot point so the entire door swings clear—giving you an extra 1 to 2 inches of clearance.
That may not sound like much, but in tight spaces, those extra inches can make a huge difference.
Why Use Offset Hinges?
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Improved Accessibility
Extra clearance can make it significantly easier to pass through with walkers, wheelchairs, or mobility aids—without bumping into the frame or squeezing through sideways. -
Low-Cost Solution
Compared to widening a doorway (which may involve cutting drywall, relocating switches, or modifying framing), offset hinges are inexpensive and easy to install. -
Quick Upgrade
Most installations can be completed in under an hour using standard tools—and without removing the door frame or making structural changes. -
Preserves the Look of Your Home
Offset hinges come in various finishes to match your existing hardware, so you don’t have to sacrifice style for function.
Where Can Offset Hinges Help the Most?
Offset hinges work best in areas where space is already tight. Some of the most common spots include:
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Bathroom doors — Usually among the narrowest doors in a home.
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Bedroom entrances — Where maneuvering with walkers or wheelchairs can be difficult.
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Closet doors — To make access easier without removing the doors entirely.
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Laundry rooms or utility areas — Where machines and cabinetry leave little space to move.
Quick Facts About Offset Hinges
- They’re easy to install — You don’t need to hire a contractor. If you can use a screwdriver, you can likely replace your current hinges with offset ones.
- Standard doors aren’t always standard — Many interior doors are only 28–30 inches wide, while ADA guidelines recommend at least 32 inches of clear width. Offset hinges help close that gap—without replacing the door.
- You may only need them on one side — In many homes, adding offset hinges to just one frequently-used door can make a significant impact—especially if someone in the household is recovering from surgery or beginning to use mobility aids.
- They come in multiple finishes — Brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black—you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics to gain functionality.
- They’re great for aging in place — Offset hinges are one of the easiest upgrades you can make to start preparing a home for long-term accessibility and comfort.
When to Consider Offset Hinges
If you’ve ever struggled to fit through a door with a mobility device—or if you’re planning ahead for aging-in-place upgrades—this is one of the simplest ways to improve access in your home. We often recommend them for bathroom doors, bedroom entrances, or anywhere space is tight.
