ᐅ Ikea BESTA – how can I equip the doors with magnetic catches?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to upgrade my Ikea Besta cabinets with new doors, and I want to install magnetic catches to ensure the doors close securely and quietly. I am wondering which type of magnetic catches work best, the best way to install them, and what technical and practical aspects to consider to guarantee long-lasting performance.

Does anyone have experience with magnetic catches specifically for BESTA fronts? How do they work best in combination with the often pre-installed, but sometimes not entirely satisfactory hinges?

I would appreciate tips on selecting the right magnets, positioning them on the doors and the cabinet frame, as well as recommendations for tools and any necessary preparation work.

Thanks in advance!

Jedennis schrieb:
I am currently planning to upgrade my Ikea BESTA cabinets with new doors, and I want to install magnetic catches so that the doors close securely and quietly.

Why do you specifically want magnetic catches instead of push-to-open latches or other common mechanisms? Magnets are nice, but in my experience, they are not as reliable on large doors, especially if the cabinet frame is slightly warped.

You should also consider that the strength of the magnet can make opening the door more difficult. It would be interesting to know what issues you have with the current solution.

Tause schrieb:
Why do you specifically want magnetic catches instead of push catches or other standard mechanisms?

Good question! My current cabinets have IKEA hinges that are only partially self-closing, and the doors often don’t close smoothly and tend to snap shut. That’s why I’m looking for a solution that doesn’t change the appearance much, is as quiet as possible, and operates with minimal force. Magnetic catches seem more elegant to me because they can be placed discreetly inside.

I’m familiar with the push catches I already have, but they seem a bit bulky and have caused wear issues more often.

Hello Jedennis,

I have installed magnetic catches on BESTA cabinets several times. Here is a brief guide with some tips:

- Choosing magnetic catches: Neodymium magnets with a holding force of about 5 kg (11 lbs) are best. These are available as small cylinders or discs.
- Installation location: Usually, the magnet is mounted inside the cabinet carcass, and the counterpart (a metal plate or magnet pad) is attached to the door.
- Note: The doors should close flush when engaged, otherwise the holding force can weaken quickly.
- Preparation: Lightly score or pre-drill to prevent the screws from splitting the material.

One important tip: When used with Ikea hinges, test whether the magnetic catch conflicts with the hinge mechanism, as these often have their own weak damping effect.

I find the idea of using magnetic catches on BESTA quite interesting because opening is quiet and convenient. However, I have noticed that when closing, you sometimes need to be very precise to ensure the magnet catches properly, especially if the cabinet unit is slightly warped.

Perhaps it would be possible to add some kind of guide rail or small guiding inserts that gently direct the door into the correct position when closing? I understand this might require some effort, but I see it as a useful addition to make the most of the magnets.

I’m also a fan of discreet solutions! Magnetic catches are great because they can be installed almost invisibly. What I can recommend in this context:

- Small but strong neodymium magnets
- Always ensure correct alignment, otherwise: no grip, no function
- A tip: try using felt strips as protection between the metal and the door to prevent squeaking or scratching.

Quiet, elegant, and minimalist – exactly my style!