ᐅ Who else uses the KALLAX as a bench—and does yours also creak?

Hello everyone,

I set up a KALLAX as a bench in my hallway because it provides storage space and is quite practical as a seating option. However, I noticed that my KALLAX occasionally makes creaking noises when I sit down or stand up. It seems that the joints or shelves are sometimes not completely stable.

My question to you: Who else uses the KALLAX as a bench and has had similar experiences? Does your KALLAX also creak when you sit on it? If so, how did you solve the issue, or what might be causing the creaking? I would really appreciate your informed feedback, as I don’t want to constantly worry about the bench collapsing. Thank you!

Langon schrieb:
Does your KALLAX also creak or crack when you sit on it?

Yes, this is quite common. The creaking usually comes from small movements at the glued or screwed joints. The stresses caused by the weight when sitting lead to micro-movements that can produce these noises.

Tips to prevent this:
1. Add extra screws at the connection points to increase stability.
2. Use mounting strips or brackets for reinforcement.
3. Place a plywood board or a suitable cushion to distribute the load evenly.

The KALLAX is originally designed as a shelving unit, not explicitly as a bench, so reinforcement is recommended. The load from sitting is higher and creates stresses that can loosen the fastening elements.

LEVI41 schrieb:
The KALLAX is originally designed as a shelving unit, not specifically as a bench

That is the key point. I also used my KALLAX as a bench in the entrance area. Initially, there were some minor noises, but these could be significantly reduced by adding extra fastenings at the edges.

Furthermore, I recommend checking the screws regularly, as they can loosen due to dynamic loads. A helpful tip is to place rubber pads or sealing washers between the screw connections to reduce friction and thus minimize creaking.

Interesting topic, I also use my KALLAX as a bench with decorative cushions.

From a technical perspective, the creaking often occurs at the joints of the thin particleboard panels and the screws. When sitting, localized pressure forces act on these connections, putting a lot of stress on them. The glue joints are often not designed to withstand this kind of load.

To fix the issue, I took the following steps:

- Added internal reinforcements using metal brackets to mechanically stabilize the joints.
- Used a thin plywood sheet as a seating surface, which rests on the shelf and distributes the load evenly.
- Placed rubber gaskets between the panel and the frame to reduce slight movements and friction.

Could you describe exactly where the creaking happens? Is it more when sitting down or standing up? And does it occur more at the edges or in the middle of the surface? This would help narrow down the cause more precisely.

FABIAN_DEO schrieb:
Could you also describe exactly where the creaking occurs?

Good question, thanks! The creaking mostly happens at the joints between the shelves and the side panel. It’s especially noticeable when standing up. In the middle of the seating area or along the edges themselves, I don’t hear any creaking—rather where the shelves are fitted and screwed in.

I don’t have any metal brackets or reinforcements, just the original screws and connectors.

Langon schrieb:
The cracking noise usually occurs at the joints between the shelves and the side panel.

Over time, these connections tend to loosen. Recommendation: tighten the screws and, if available, apply wood glue to the joints.

Additionally, treating the wood-to-wood contact surfaces with some wax or lubricant can help reduce cracking caused by friction.