Hello everyone,
I have had these Kallax shelves from Ikea for several years now, along with the matching inserts (drawers, boxes). Unfortunately, I have noticed that the white plastic and MDF inserts are yellowing quite noticeably, which makes the overall look in the room appear somewhat untidy. I am now considering whether I should paint these inserts to cover the yellow tint and refresh the surface, or if it would be more practical in the long term to replace them entirely.
What do you think? Is painting even a viable solution, especially regarding durability and appearance? How well does paint adhere to the different materials? And is the financial and time investment worth it compared to buying new ones?
I am very interested in your experiences and opinions!
I have had these Kallax shelves from Ikea for several years now, along with the matching inserts (drawers, boxes). Unfortunately, I have noticed that the white plastic and MDF inserts are yellowing quite noticeably, which makes the overall look in the room appear somewhat untidy. I am now considering whether I should paint these inserts to cover the yellow tint and refresh the surface, or if it would be more practical in the long term to replace them entirely.
What do you think? Is painting even a viable solution, especially regarding durability and appearance? How well does paint adhere to the different materials? And is the financial and time investment worth it compared to buying new ones?
I am very interested in your experiences and opinions!
Yellowing of Kallax inserts is a well-known issue, especially with the white plastic or coated MDF boxes.
Painting can improve the appearance to some extent, but there are some important points to consider:
1. Surface preparation: The surfaces must be very thoroughly sanded and cleaned; otherwise, paint will not adhere well.
2. Choice of paint: For plastic, special plastic paint or acrylic paint is recommended, while MDF can be treated with a good wood paint.
3. Durability: The painted surface is more sensitive to scratches and wear compared to the original coated surfaces.
4. Alternative: Replacement is more expensive but guarantees the original material quality and appearance.
If cost is not a major concern, I personally lean towards buying new – it saves time and hassle.
Painting can improve the appearance to some extent, but there are some important points to consider:
1. Surface preparation: The surfaces must be very thoroughly sanded and cleaned; otherwise, paint will not adhere well.
2. Choice of paint: For plastic, special plastic paint or acrylic paint is recommended, while MDF can be treated with a good wood paint.
3. Durability: The painted surface is more sensitive to scratches and wear compared to the original coated surfaces.
4. Alternative: Replacement is more expensive but guarantees the original material quality and appearance.
If cost is not a major concern, I personally lean towards buying new – it saves time and hassle.
BOSULE schrieb:
Painting can certainly change the appearance quite a bitBut honestly: Isn’t it always a bit of a cosmetic flaw when a piece of furniture yellows over time and you try to "paint over" the defect? Why not simply accept that the items are older and have their own charm?
Alternatively, how about replacing the inserts with colorful or patterned versions? That way, you turn what might seem like a flaw into a design feature. It’s not always exciting to keep everything white and clinically fresh.
S
SauDietmar8 May 2020 08:12The post is interesting, so I’ll add some technical details about painting:
Step 1: Cleaning – Remove all grease, dust, and dirt completely (use isopropanol or alcohol).
Step 2: Sanding – Use fine sandpaper (grit 220-320) to create a matte surface, which helps the paint adhere better.
Step 3: Priming – Always use a sealing primer on MDF, otherwise the material will absorb the paint.
Step 4: Painting – It’s better to apply several thin coats instead of one thick one, sanding lightly between coats.
Regarding durability: Plastic is more critical, as the paint often chips or warps after a few months. MDF holds paint more stably, although water sensitivity can still be an issue.
For comparison: New inserts do cost money but offer a perfect surface and are easier to handle.
My advice: If DIY and costs are the priority, paint. If you want a long-lasting and hassle-free result, replace.
Step 1: Cleaning – Remove all grease, dust, and dirt completely (use isopropanol or alcohol).
Step 2: Sanding – Use fine sandpaper (grit 220-320) to create a matte surface, which helps the paint adhere better.
Step 3: Priming – Always use a sealing primer on MDF, otherwise the material will absorb the paint.
Step 4: Painting – It’s better to apply several thin coats instead of one thick one, sanding lightly between coats.
Regarding durability: Plastic is more critical, as the paint often chips or warps after a few months. MDF holds paint more stably, although water sensitivity can still be an issue.
For comparison: New inserts do cost money but offer a perfect surface and are easier to handle.
My advice: If DIY and costs are the priority, paint. If you want a long-lasting and hassle-free result, replace.
ottilie schrieb:
Why not just accept that the parts are older and have their charm?Sometimes "charm" just means deterioration – in other words, yellowing doesn’t look good, and who wants their apartment to look like it’s from the 1980s?
Alice schrieb:
Otherwise, buy replacements – it’s often easier and more durable.I agree. Painting is a solution for DIY enthusiasts, but not for those who want quick and even results. When it comes to practical living, it’s better to replace the inserts.
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