ᐅ KALLAX faded after just a few years – is sunlight exposure a factor?

Hello everyone,

A few years ago, I bought the IKEA KALLAX shelving unit and placed it against a wall in my living room. Recently, I noticed that the color of the unit looks quite faded, which to be honest is a bit disappointing. I suspect that the frequent direct sunlight coming through the large window in front of it is the main cause of the fading.

Has anyone here experienced this or knows how much sunlight actually affects the plastic or surface of KALLAX units? Are there any ways to reduce or prevent this effect?

I look forward to your insights and tips!

Sunlight can cause plastic and painted surfaces to fade. For KALLAX, UV radiation is particularly problematic. Solution: do not place the shelving unit directly in the sun or make sure to use UV protection film on the window.

The KALLAX shelving unit is mainly made of coated particleboard, with a laminated or painted surface. UV rays can cause long-term damage to organic materials, leading to discoloration and fading.

It is recommended to avoid direct sunlight exposure as much as possible. Common measures include using UV protection films or curtains. Regularly rotating or rearranging the shelves can also help prevent uneven fading.

Lucien schrieb:
The KALLAX shelf unit is mostly made of coated particleboard, with a laminated or painted surface.

That is correct, but I would question to what extent the officially stated protective measures actually help against intense sunlight.

I have read several times that IKEA furniture is designed more for cost-effective production and aesthetics rather than long-lasting UV resistance. Does anyone have evidence or experience regarding how the surface of KALLAX reacts compared to other furniture?

kasan schrieb:
Does anyone have evidence or experience regarding how the surface of KALLAX holds up compared to other furniture?

In IKEA’s technical datasheets, there is little information about long-term UV resistance. Typical coatings are polyurethane-based, which tend to gray or fade slightly with prolonged UV exposure.

Compared to solid wood or specially treated surfaces, KALLAX is therefore less resistant to continuous sun exposure.

Ah, KALLAX and the sunlight drama! 🙂 I know the problem – my shelf also stands in direct morning sunlight.

My trick: Besides using UV protection film, I cover the shelf with a light cloth on sunny days. It works well, doesn’t look like a museum exhibit, and offers good protection.

Of course, you can’t prevent everything, but I still think it’s better than having such faded compartments. 🙂