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How to Hide Wires for Under Cabinet Lights

How to hide the cord and power supply for plug-in under cabinet lights, or avoid cords entirely.

The cord is the one thing people dislike about plug-in under cabinet lights. This guide lists ways to hide it, and a way to avoid it. For products, see plug in under cabinet lighting and rechargeable under cabinet lights.

The Short Version

Run the cord along the underside of the cabinet, tucked against the back wall or a front lip, with small clips. Use a cord cover for visible runs, and put the power supply in a spot you can reach but not see.

Options

OptionHow it worksNotes
Cord clipsSmall clips hold the cord against the cabinetCheapest; some kits include them
Cord cover or racewayA channel hides the cord along a wall or edgeGood for visible runs
Front lip or light railA strip along the cabinet’s front edge hides the lights and wiringCommon on new cabinets
Extension cord and linking cableLink bars with the supplied cable instead of separate plugsSeveral kits include extension cables
Wire-free lightsRechargeable or battery bars need no cordLower output; need recharging

Tips

  • Plan the route before sticking anything
  • Keep the power supply ventilated and accessible
  • Do not run a cord through a wall unless it is rated for in-wall use and installed properly; that is electrical work
  • maylit lists a 4.9 ft connection cable for wider spacing between bars

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run an under cabinet light cord behind the cabinet?

Along the back edge, yes. Do not run an ordinary cord inside a wall.

What if there is no outlet nearby?

Use rechargeable bars, or ask an electrician about adding an outlet.

Can I hide the power supply?

In a cabinet if it is ventilated and you can reach it.

Related: how to install under cabinet lighting.

Check current pricing and availability for the maylit 14 in Plug-In Under Cabinet Light Bar.

About the author

Ethan Cole
Ethan Cole

Ethan Cole leads research and editing at WikiHomeLED, comparing LED lighting for the home through manufacturer specs, manuals, safety listings and owner feedback. Every product is scored against the criteria on our How We Review page, and picks are updated when models change.