ᐅ Which tools are really necessary for assembling IKEA PLATSA?

Hello everyone, I am currently planning to assemble my new IKEA Platsa wardrobe and wonder which tools are really necessary to complete the assembly as efficiently and neatly as possible. The instructions usually recommend just a screwdriver and maybe a hammer, but I suspect that having some additional tools could noticeably simplify or speed up the process. I am interested in experiences regarding which tools are truly indispensable when assembling the Platsa—whether specific screwdriver bits are required, if a cordless drill/driver is essential, or if you can manage well without pliers, a spirit level, or similar tools. I also welcome tips on which aids are rather unnecessary or might even complicate the process. Thanks for your opinions and experiences!

Hey, great question! 😄 I actually assemble PLATSA regularly, and I’d say the trusty cordless drill is basically your best friend – it saves you not only a lot of time but also a lot of frustration. Sure, you can do everything with a screwdriver, but who wants to strain their arm? 😉

maranu schrieb:
whether a cordless drill is mandatory

For me, definitely yes. Also, a spirit level is essential because a cabinet like IKEA’s shouldn’t stand crooked, otherwise it creates a weird feeling in the room. You really only need a hammer for inserting the wall plugs, if at all, but be careful not to hit too hard!

Pliers or special attachments usually weren’t necessary for me, but if you have tight corners where you need to tighten screws properly, they can be useful. My tip: cordless drill, spirit level, and a good protective surface to avoid scratches!

I believe such questions should always be considered from the perspectives of efficiency and potential for mistakes. Just because a cordless screwdriver makes life easier doesn’t mean it is absolutely necessary. Sure, it is a great advantage, but what about the precision when tightening screws? Apart from the fact that IKEA parts are often quite delicate, manual work is not necessarily worse in this context.

dijan schrieb:
The good old cordless screwdriver is practically your best friend

I wonder if you can work more precisely with a good Phillips or Torx screwdriver and thus avoid damaging the parts. A spirit level is definitely helpful as well, but I consider it a basic skill to slightly level or adjust the furniture manually when needed.

It would also be interesting to know whether a small set of combination tools is sufficient, or if a special tool set is required. So here is my question to everyone: How many tools do you actually bring to the worksite, and how selective is your choice?

Hello everyone, I don’t assemble PLATSA very often, but I occasionally help friends with it. I would say the following tools are quite sufficient:

- Cordless drill or at least a good Phillips screwdriver
- Spirit level
- Hammer (only for dowels)
- Possibly a small tape measure

Natan schrieb:
I wonder if you can work more precisely with a good Phillips or Torx screwdriver

Most IKEA screws are Phillips, so that’s what I recommend. As far as I know, you don’t need Torx for PLATSA.

Everything else is, in my opinion, nice to have but not essential. The assembly instructions are quite well organized, so you can easily follow them.

A cordless screwdriver is essential. A manual screwdriver will do but takes much longer.
A hammer is only necessary for anchors.
A spirit level is useful but not mandatory – you can also rely on your eye.
You don't need pliers or other special tools.
Don’t overcomplicate things.