How to Change a Door Handle

Replacing Door Handles: A Simple, Friendly Guide for Every Home

Replacing a door handle is one of the easiest DIY jobs you can tackle — and the results are instant. Whether you're refreshing a tired internal door handle, learning how to change a door handle for the first time, or figuring out how to fix a loose door handle, the whole process is much simpler than most people expect.

Most homeowners complete a door handle internal swap in under an hour. No specialist tools. No need to call a tradesperson. And certainly no reason to panic if you spot a wobbly door handle or screws starting to work loose. This guide walks you through everything from removing the old handle to identifying internal door handle parts, tightening loose components, and even what to do if you’re dealing with how to fix a loose door handle with hidden screws.

What You’ll Need

A new internal door handle set (or door handle accessories if you’re upgrading)

Screwdriver

Tape measure

Pencil

Optional: Chisel (for latch adjustments)

These basics also apply when diagnosing an internal door handle sticking, dealing with door handle screws loose, or checking an older inner door handle for wear.

Step-by-Step: How to Change a Door Handle

Whether you're handling a simple upgrade or full fixing a door handle job, here’s the smoothest way to get it done.

1. Remove the Old Handle

Start by unscrewing each side of the handle.
Pull them apart carefully and remove the spindle — this is often where you’ll spot wear that causes a door handle loose sensation.

Unscrew the latch plate next and slide out the latch. If your old handle was wobbling, this is usually the moment you discover the problem: worn-out parts or door handle screws loose on one side.

This process also teaches you how to take off a door handle correctly, which helps later if you ever need to fix a door handle again.

2. Check Your Handle and Door Fit

Before fitting anything new, measure the backset and make sure everything aligns.
Standard doors accept most internal door handle packs, but it's worth checking thickness — especially with older homes where fixing loose door handle issues tend to recur.

If you ever wondered why some screws never stay tight, it often comes down to wood fatigue. In those cases, you may need to learn how to fix door handle screw holes using fillers or plugs.

3. Fit the Latch

Slide the latch into the door edge.
Make sure the bevel faces the closing direction — this reduces sticking and that annoying squeaky door handle problem.

Secure the plate with screws.

4. Install the New Handle

Now the fun part: fitting the new hardware.

Push the spindle through

Align your new handle on both sides

Screw it into place (but don’t overtighten — this can actually create a door handle loose on one side issue)

Test the movement

If you're installing a round bathroom door handle with lock or a brass internal door handle, make sure the latch and lock mechanisms engage smoothly.

Congratulations — you’ve officially mastered how to fit a door handle!

How to Fix a Loose Door Handle

Loose handles are the most common complaint — and luckily, the easiest to fix.

Here’s how to fix a door handle that is loose:

Remove the handle

Inspect the spindle

Tighten all screws

Reinforce holes if necessary

Reattach securely

If your screws keep coming out of the door handle, the screw holes are worn out, not the hardware. A little filler solves the issue.
If you're dealing with hidden fixings, follow how to fix a loose door handle without visible screws by locating the tiny detent or release hole beneath the rose.

Once you know how to tighten a door handle, you'll never fear a wobbly handle again.

Choosing the Right Handle for Your Door

Door handles are about more than function — they influence the feel of your whole room.
You might choose:

A sleek white door handle for a fresh modern look

A traditional brass internal door handle

A secure door handle cylinder style for added privacy

A lock-ready mortice lock door handle for bedrooms and bathrooms

With so many types of door handle available, upgrading hardware becomes one of the easiest ways to refresh your space.

What About Door Handle Replacement Cost (UK)?

Most standard replacements are very affordable, especially when you only need a new internal door handle set rather than a full fix door handle professional service. Handle packs often cost far less than expected — making it a small investment for a big visual improvement.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're fixing loose door handle issues, researching how to tighten a loose door handle, or doing a full door handle replacement after wear and tear, this guide should give you all the confidence you need.

A small DIY job can make a big difference — and now you know exactly how to fix, tighten, replace, and upgrade your door handles like a pro.