As great as corner cabinets can be for maximizing space in the kitchen, they can prove to be a unique challenge when it’s time to maximize every inch. Enter the Lazy Susan a no-fuss but hugely effective storage solution that makes those tricky spots a little more organised and easier to access. These days, everyone knows what a Lazy Susan is, but not many know the hardware that powers it! This guide explains all the essentials of Lazy Susan hardware, including the types, materials, installation tips, and maintenance.
What Is Lazy Susan Hardware?
Lazy Susan Hardware is the hardware which helps the rotating shelves of the lazy Susan to rotate easily and hold the weight of its stored things. It’s the key building block that makes this store feature work. Lazy Susan units, extremely popular in kitchens, pantries and even bathrooms, are most commonly installed in corner base or wall cabinets.
The hardware includes:
Swivel plates or rotating bearings
Mounting brackets
Center shafts or poles (for multi-tiered designs)
Pivot and slide (for some modern variations)
Whether you’re buying the complete kit or retrofitting an existing cabinet, knowing the right type of hardware is essential for a successful installation.
Different Types of Lazy Susan Hardware
There are various types of Lazy Susan hardware, and the ideal selection depends heavily on the style of your cabinet and the storage needs you have, as well as how much room you have available to work with.
Full-Round
Rotatable 360 Degrees Circular Design It’s generally mounted on a central pole or shaft, for a perfect fit for diagonal corner cabinets. The hardware consists of a rotating bearing and support pole that extends to the height you need.
Kidney-Shaped
Sided set up with fixed back corner for L-shaped corner cabinets The kidney shape gives maximum usable space and generally rotates on a middle pole. Some of them have a pivot-and-slide feature that extends the shelf partially out of the cabinet so you can reach what’s in the back.
D-Shaped
This version, great for wall cabinets or blind corners, has a flat side that lines up with the cabinet door. Most D-shaped hardware are turntables mounted up on a flat base with ball-bearing hardware.
Pie-Cut
A kidney shape, but the Lazy Susan shelves are attached directly to the cabinet doors. The shelves rotate out with the door when you open it. That requires a unique hinge subsystems and matched door-mount hardware.
Pull-Out & Pivot Mechanisms
These new styles incorporate rotation and pull-out features. The hardware is more advanced, employing tracks, arms, and pivot points to pull the shelves fully outside of the cabinet to allow you to see everything.
The Lazy Susan hardware is made using the following materials
Lazy Susan units get stuck or are unable to spin when the shelves or hardware elements are corrupted, making the material quality behind Lazy Susans an important thing to consider.
Metal Hardware
Pros: Sturdy, tough, and durable
Typical Applications: Center shafts, support brackets, ball-bearing turntables
Material Types: Aluminum, stainless steel, zinc-coated steel
Plastic or Nylon Components
Common in low-end models, in bearings or casings
Others use high-grade polymers, which allow for a smoother, quieter rotation
Wood and MDF
Shelves, usually made of plywood, solid wood, or MDF with a veneer
Combined with heavy-duty metal hardware for strength
More: Always check the weight rating of the hardware before purchase. A good-quality unit should hold at least 20–30 pounds per shelf (size permitting).
How to Select the Appropriate Lazy Susan Hardware
Choosing the right hardware is not just a matter of size, it’s also about functionality, durability, and ease of use. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Cabinet Dimensions
Measure the cabinet’s interior diameter and depth to ensure proper fit. Most Lazy Susan kits include a sizing chart or guide.
Number of Tiers
Most of the common models are two-tier, with some three-tier available for taller cabinets. Every tier must be correctly supported and leveled.
Weight Capacity
If you’re going to store pots or small appliances, you’ll need sturdy hardware.
Ease of Installation
And look for kits that come with good instructions and where the mounting holes are pre-drilled. Some models are height- and angle-adjustable, which can help compensate for cabinet irregularities.
Brand & Compatibility
Buy only from the reputable hardware manufacturers — like Rev-A-Shelf, Hafele and Knape & Vogt. Shelves and hardware must remain compatible.
Lazy Susan Hardware Installation: Key Steps
Installation varies by model, but the general process goes like this:
Measure and mark: Properly measure the cabinet size and mark the center point where you want to place the shaft or bearing.
Install Bottom Bearing or Base Plate: Secure with screws to the cabinet floor.
Add the Center Shaft (if you have one): You can set this at any height that will run between the bottom and top of the cabinet.
Attach Shelves: Slide or clamp the shelves in place, making sure they rotate easily.
Check the Movement: Ensure that everything spins nicely, and that the doors open and close without interference.
If you’re less confident, many hardware kits come with video tutorials to guide you or you can ask a professional.
5 Lazy Susan Hardware Maintenance Tips
(Upkeep of the Lazy Susan hardware will insure operation for years to come.)
Lubricate Bearings: If the turntable bearings become noisy or tight, lubricate them with a little light machine oil.
Tighten Loose Screws: Regularly check and tighten any and all mounting hardware; loose mounting hardware can cause your TV to bulge or sag.
Keep it Clean: Regular cleaning is also required, as crumbs and debris can block the rotation. Wipe down shelves with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Don’t Overload: Exceeding the weight capacity can damage the swivel mechanism or imbalance.
Final Thoughts
Lazy Susan hardware may be a small part, but it is an important contributor to getting the most utility out of your kitchen. Whether you’re upgrading an existing setup or arranging one from scratch, learning about the types, materials, and installation process will help you get the best deck. With the right choice and maintenance, your Lazy Susan can be a real time-saver in helping organize small spaces.
