ᐅ How can I equip Ikea Pax doors with a magnetic closing system?

Hello everyone, I want to retrofit my Ikea Pax doors with a magnetic system because I find the traditional handle opening somewhat impractical and I value a smooth, almost silent closing mechanism. Therefore, I am looking for a way to modify these doors so they close with magnets, without having to push or pull a handle.

Specifically, I am interested in which types of magnetic catches work well, the best ways to install them—such as inside or concealed—and how durable such a system is with the sometimes heavy doors. Are there special magnetic systems that can be easily fitted to Ikea Pax doors and still provide enough holding force for secure closure?

Has anyone had experience retrofitting Pax doors? I would appreciate any tips, manufacturer recommendations, or advice on what to watch out for to avoid damaging the doors or limiting their functionality.

alarictra schrieb:
I am specifically interested in which types of magnetic catches work well, how they can best be installed – for example inside or concealed – and how stable such a system is with the sometimes heavy doors.

There are some important details to consider on this topic:

- First, it is important to distinguish between flat catch magnets and damping magnets. For heavy doors, stronger neodymium magnets are recommended to ensure a secure closure.

- Installation is ideally done in the door rebate or the door frame, where magnets or metal plates can be recessed to maintain a clean appearance and avoid impairing functionality. Most users drill small holes or mill shallow recesses.

- Alignment is crucial: the magnet and its counterpart must be precisely aligned to guarantee optimal hold and prevent wobbling or partial opening.

- For Ikea Pax doors, it is important to check the interior and rear side to avoid damaging cables, hinges, or reinforcements. Ikea usually installs fittings on the side that must be taken into account when mounting magnets.

- It would be helpful to know whether the doors are hinged or sliding, as this affects the mechanical loads on the magnet.

Could you please specify which exact model you have and what type of door (hinged, folding, sliding) you want to retrofit? This would help to provide more precise recommendations.

I also recommend carefully checking beforehand how deep and wide screws or drill holes can be made without compromising door stability. Additionally, you should measure the magnet strength in advance or evaluate it based on manufacturer specifications.

valerie-tr schrieb:
For heavy doors, stronger neodymium magnets are recommended to ensure a secure closure.

I fully agree with this. When retrofitting Ikea Pax doors with magnetic systems, powerful neodymium magnets are especially advisable due to their high holding force relative to their size.

The following points are important for technical classification and practical implementation:

- Magnetic systems must provide sufficient holding force to counteract the forces generated when opening and closing. For a standard Pax door weighing around 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lbs), magnets with about 2 to 3 kg (4.4 to 6.6 lbs) holding force per piece are appropriate.

- Installation usually takes place in the rebate area of the door and the frame, which requires drilling or routing grooves. These should be done precisely and cleanly to avoid damaging the door.

- It is advisable to make the attachment reversible: using screws and matching metal plates allows for easy removal or upgrading later.

- Proper alignment of the magnets is also crucial: precise vertical and horizontal positioning prevents unwanted rubbing or sticking.

- Adding damping elements (e.g., silicone bumpers) enhances comfort and reduces noise when closing, supporting the magnetic system.

Finally, it is important to use original or compact retrofit kits designed to fit Ikea Pax as closely as possible or at least modular kits that allow for individual adjustments.

Hey! This topic is really interesting. A few months ago, I converted my Pax doors to a magnetic system—and I can only say: it’s definitely worth it! 😊

I used magnetic catches from a well-known DIY store, neodymium type. They are small, strong, and almost invisible after installation. Installing them takes a bit of time, but with careful, patient drilling, it works perfectly.

PIDAN schrieb:
An addition of damping elements (e.g., silicone buffers) improves comfort and reduces noise when closing, which supports the magnetic system.

I can totally confirm that! I also added door dampers, and now the doors close much more smoothly than before! And opening them without handles feels so modern and elegant. For anyone willing to put in a bit more effort, it’s absolutely recommended!

If anyone is still unsure, just ask—I’m happy to share tips on installation and the best materials!

NUGRANT schrieb:
I used magnetic catches from a well-known hardware store, neodymium type, which are small, strong, and nearly invisible after installation.

That’s already a good starting point. However, I recommend using so-called "push-to-open" magnetic systems, especially designed for cabinet doors. These allow a contactless mechanism, often combined with a spring mechanism. This way, the door opens automatically with a light push, which is even more convenient than just a magnetic catch.

Important points when retrofitting Pax doors:

- Precise planning before installation: mark measurements, measure drill holes, and if necessary, create a prototype on a sample board

- Check the door material thickness: Pax series doors have different thicknesses and fittings, which affect the depth of the magnetic catch

- Clarification: Is your goal purely a holding effect via magnet, or do you want the door to open contactlessly?

- Do not interfere with the hinge covers: oversized fittings are often installed inside, which may be restricted

Since you know the installation, I assume you are familiar with basic tools? If a spring mechanism or push system is considered, the spring force should also be matched to the door size, otherwise the door may slam or require too much force to open.

If you like, I can prepare a detailed installation guide for a push-to-open system specifically for Pax doors.