ᐅ Replacing the door catch magnet on a BILLY shelf – how do I find a replacement?

Created on: 20 Oct 2024 07:23
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Fajari
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Fajari
20 Oct 2024 07:23
Hello everyone,
I noticed that the door catch on my Billy shelving unit is no longer working properly – the door doesn’t close securely anymore, which is especially noticeable with the smooth doors. Now I want to replace the door catch, but I’m unsure how to find a suitable replacement.

Are there specific dimensions, types, or mounting methods I should pay attention to?
What should I consider when buying to make sure the new catch isn’t too weak or too strong?
And can the catch be easily replaced by myself, or is there a recommended procedure?

I look forward to your experiences and tips!
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Filippo
20 Oct 2024 08:42
Hello Fajari,
thank you for your detailed question – the topic of the door magnet in the BILLY shelving unit is not as simple as it may seem at first.

To find a suitable replacement, it is first important to measure the existing component accurately: this includes the length, width, and height of the magnet, as well as the holding force and the type of magnet, for example whether it is a flat or a round magnet.

It is also important to consider where and how the magnet is mounted – is it attached with screws, adhesive pads, or does the magnet sit in a groove? Especially with IKEA shelves, you often cannot just use any magnet because the installation situation can be very specific.

My tip: when measuring, be sure to use precise tools like a caliper. This will help you search for a replacement online or at a hardware store. If possible, look for "BILLY door magnet replacement" or specifications close to your existing magnet.

Also, have you checked if the magnet might simply be dirty or loose? Sometimes a cleaning or firm reattachment is enough.

I would be interested to know if you have a specific door type (wood, glass), as this significantly influences the choice of magnet.

If you can provide further details, we can look more closely at finding the right replacement.
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warrenka57
20 Oct 2024 09:57
Hello Fajari,
I can understand how frustrating it is when the door of the BILLY bookcase doesn’t close properly anymore. Small issues like that can be annoying in the long run. I had a similar problem myself—which really bothered me until I found a replacement part.

My advice: often it’s worth contacting IKEA directly or their replacement parts service to ask if they sell the door magnet separately. Communication there can sometimes feel a bit impersonal, but occasionally they have exactly what you need.

If that doesn’t work out, I ordered mine from a specialized online shop for furniture fittings. It’s important to stay calm and see the search as a small challenge. You can do it! 🙂
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Paunon
20 Oct 2024 10:15
Fajari, measure the magnet, then look for a "furniture door magnet 12x12 mm" or similar sizes.

Mounting is usually done with screws or adhesive tape.

For BILLY, screws would definitely be more secure.
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Filippo
21 Oct 2024 06:31
warrenka57 schrieb:
It is often worth asking directly at IKEA or their spare parts service.

This is a really important point! IKEA does not always list every spare part online, but customer service can assist if you send them exact measurements and a photo.
Paunon schrieb:
Assembly usually with screws or adhesive tape.

With BILLY, screws would definitely be more secure.

Screws are definitely the most stable option. I would strongly recommend not fixing a magnet using only adhesive tape, because especially on doors, constant stress can quickly loosen the tape.

What type of mounting do you currently have, Fajari? Would it be possible to remove it with a small screwdriver to access the magnet?
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GiRoyce
21 Oct 2024 08:03
Hello Fajari,

for replacing the door magnet on the BILLY shelf, I recommend the following approach:

1. Remove the door and carefully inspect the magnet – sometimes only the counterpart magnet is loose or misaligned.
2. Measure the length, width, height, and check the type of attachment (screws, adhesive).
3. Search the IKEA spare parts store or specialist suppliers for furniture fittings specifically for a "furniture door magnet" with your measurements.
4. If you don’t find an exact match, you can look for universal door magnets at hardware stores, but make sure the holding force is similar.
5. To replace it, carefully loosen the screws or remove any adhesive residues.
6. Install the new magnet and ensure the door closes precisely.

I can assure you that the replacement is quite straightforward if you proceed carefully. If needed, I can also provide sources where you can get the parts.