ᐅ Which screw sets are recommended for repairs on Ikea Besta units?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to carry out several repairs on my Ikea Besta system, as some screws and joints have become loose. My question to the community is: Which screw sets are particularly recommended for repairs and replacement of screws in Ikea Besta? It is especially important to me that the screws match or even exceed the original Ikea parts in terms of material quality, fit, and durability. If the sets also include compatible tools, that would be an additional advantage.

I have noticed that Ikea sometimes uses specific connection techniques, such as cam locks and hidden screws, and I would like to know whether there are screw sets that are especially suitable for these or if it is fine to simply use standard furniture screws.

I look forward to your experiences and recommendations! Thanks in advance.

Hello Marabau,

to answer your question thoroughly, we need to take a close look at the Besta system and the fasteners used. Ikea typically uses different types of screws:

- Metal screws similar to Spax for frames and carcasses
- Cam lock connectors (round dowels with locking screws) for furniture assembly
- Small screws for back panels and hanging hardware

For repairs, I recommend a set that primarily includes the following screw types:

- 4x30mm (approximately 1 1/4 inch) chipboard screws with Phillips heads, electro-galvanized, as these often replace the main carcass screws
- Cam lock nuts plus matching wood or metal dowels, because the cams in Ikea furniture tend to wear out over time

Make sure the sets have screws with Phillips heads, since Ikea rarely uses Torx or other head types. Usually, a good bit set with Phillips attachments is enough; Torx can damage the screw heads if they are delicate.

Material quality: Prefer sets made of stainless steel or zinc-plated steel – these withstand moisture inside furniture better.

An example would be a furniture screw set with various lengths (25 - 50mm, approx. 1 - 2 inches), combined with cam connectors and wooden dowels. If these are not fully included, buy the cams separately.

Could you let us know exactly what repairs are needed? Are they carcass screws or more to do with joining points? Then I can advise you more precisely.

Hello Marabau,

I would like to add that there are basically two approaches:

- Either you look for a complete screw set that is specifically designed for Ikea furniture and therefore suitable for Besta as well.
- Or you refer to the exact specifications of the screws Ikea uses and search for individual screws and connecting parts in hardware stores or online shops.

It is important, if you are replacing screws yourself, to make sure the screws are not too long or too thick, as this could cause the panels to split. Most Ikea Besta units use particleboard about 15 to 18 mm (0.6 to 0.7 inches) thick, and you need to adjust the screw length accordingly.

Many also say that the original screws have a hardened surface, which increases stability. Therefore, standard screws from hardware stores may not be exactly equivalent.

When it comes to tools, typically hex keys (Allen wrenches) or Phillips bits are the best choice. Cam lock fittings require a corresponding screwdriver bit.

If you want, I can provide you with a list of measurements and screw types that you can use as a shopping guide.

One more question: Are you planning to do the repairs yourself, or will you be getting professional help?

Marabau schrieb:
It is especially important to me that the screws are comparable to or even better than the original Ikea parts in terms of material quality, fit, and durability.

I can absolutely understand that! Ikea often uses inexpensive materials, so you don’t want to run into problems right away. From my experience, for repairs on Besta units, it’s best to use sets labeled as “furniture screws stainless steel” or “galvanized furniture connectors.”

PeoDaniel schrieb:
Many also say that the original screws have a hardened surface

I can confirm that. Stainless steel screws are rust-resistant, but not all are equally hard. It’s worth investing a little more in a set made from high-quality steel, because otherwise the screws can strip easily when you try to unscrew them.

I got a small “Ikea furniture repair kit” from a specialist supplier back then—it included all the common screws, matching wall plugs, and even a small Allen key. It saved me a lot of time because I didn’t have to guess which screw fits best where.

One tip that definitely helps: lightly coat the screws with a drop of lubricating oil before installation. This prevents splitting and greatly eases assembly.

If anyone has recommendations for specific brands of screw sets, feel free to share!

I would simply use 4x30 mm (1.6x1.2 inch) Spax screws with matching wall plugs. They are sturdy and fit most Ikea Besta panels.

For the cam locks, it’s best to buy replacements from Ikea, as there really is no equivalent product that works as well.