Hello everyone,
I have a question about my IKEA Besta shelving unit, specifically regarding the cabinet doors: How can I retrofit my Besta system with magnetic catches so that the doors close automatically and stay securely shut?
I would like to find a permanent and discreet solution since I currently only have standard push-to-open hinges, which sometimes don’t close completely. Are there specific types of magnets or attachment methods that work best with IKEA Besta?
I’m particularly interested in advice on – which magnetic catches to use, – the best way to install them (outside, inside, exact position), – whether any modifications to the carcass or door are necessary, and – if there are recommended sets or individual parts available at hardware stores or IKEA-specific options.
If anyone has personal experience, I would appreciate a detailed description or tips on what to watch out for during installation. Thanks in advance!
I have a question about my IKEA Besta shelving unit, specifically regarding the cabinet doors: How can I retrofit my Besta system with magnetic catches so that the doors close automatically and stay securely shut?
I would like to find a permanent and discreet solution since I currently only have standard push-to-open hinges, which sometimes don’t close completely. Are there specific types of magnets or attachment methods that work best with IKEA Besta?
I’m particularly interested in advice on – which magnetic catches to use, – the best way to install them (outside, inside, exact position), – whether any modifications to the carcass or door are necessary, and – if there are recommended sets or individual parts available at hardware stores or IKEA-specific options.
If anyone has personal experience, I would appreciate a detailed description or tips on what to watch out for during installation. Thanks in advance!
Hello Gedeo62,
You asked a very precise question, which is great for getting targeted help! When retrofitting magnetic catches on IKEA Besta units, you can keep a few points in mind:
- Types of magnets: Bar magnets or flat neodymium magnets with sufficient holding force work best, but not too strong to avoid damaging the doors.
- Placement: Magnets are usually mounted inside the cabinet frame and on the inner side of the door, often in the top or bottom corner where the catch closes tightly.
- Installation: Depending on whether you want to drill yourself or prefer adhesive magnets, you can pre-drill holes or use strong 3M adhesive magnets. For a permanently secure installation, small screws are ideal.
- Modifications to the furniture: Usually, you won’t need significant changes, just a small recess or hole in the frame or door based on the magnet type, so the magnet sits flush and doesn’t cause interference.
- Sources: Hardware stores offer common cylindrical magnets or special cabinet magnets. IKEA itself doesn't provide separate magnetic catches for Besta, but you can use IKEA hinges with integrated soft closers if you prefer.
If you like, I can also write a step-by-step guide on how I retrofitted magnets on my Besta cabinets. Just let me know!
You asked a very precise question, which is great for getting targeted help! When retrofitting magnetic catches on IKEA Besta units, you can keep a few points in mind:
- Types of magnets: Bar magnets or flat neodymium magnets with sufficient holding force work best, but not too strong to avoid damaging the doors.
- Placement: Magnets are usually mounted inside the cabinet frame and on the inner side of the door, often in the top or bottom corner where the catch closes tightly.
- Installation: Depending on whether you want to drill yourself or prefer adhesive magnets, you can pre-drill holes or use strong 3M adhesive magnets. For a permanently secure installation, small screws are ideal.
- Modifications to the furniture: Usually, you won’t need significant changes, just a small recess or hole in the frame or door based on the magnet type, so the magnet sits flush and doesn’t cause interference.
- Sources: Hardware stores offer common cylindrical magnets or special cabinet magnets. IKEA itself doesn't provide separate magnetic catches for Besta, but you can use IKEA hinges with integrated soft closers if you prefer.
If you like, I can also write a step-by-step guide on how I retrofitted magnets on my Besta cabinets. Just let me know!
Hello Gedeo62,
I’m happy to give you a quick guide on how to upgrade IKEA Besta units with magnetic catches. I’ve done this myself, and here’s how I proceeded:
1. Magnet selection: Use neodymium disc magnets with a diameter of about 10-12mm (0.4-0.5 inches) and a thickness of at least 3-5mm (0.1-0.2 inches). These provide optimal holding strength without being too strong.
2. Preparation: Open the door and mark where the magnet will work best on the door and the cabinet body. Usually, this is on the upper inner side of the door near the hinge mounting profile.
3. Recess: Rout or drill a shallow recess about 2-3mm (0.08-0.1 inches) deep into the inner side of the door and the matching area on the cabinet body, so the magnets fit flush. This prevents the magnets from protruding.
4. Fixing: Place the magnets into the recesses and secure them with strong wood glue or thin screws, depending on the magnet’s recommended mounting method. If retaining rings are included, use them.
5. Adjustment: Test the door to make sure it closes securely on its own but is still easy to open. If needed, you can slightly adjust the magnet positions.
6. Tip: Use protective rubber or felt between the magnet and the furniture if the magnet is too strong to avoid minor damage from repeated closing.
Important: Work carefully when drilling or routing to avoid damaging the MDF or veneer. If you don’t have a router, you can also use thin adhesive magnets, but the holding strength will be lower.
Hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
I’m happy to give you a quick guide on how to upgrade IKEA Besta units with magnetic catches. I’ve done this myself, and here’s how I proceeded:
1. Magnet selection: Use neodymium disc magnets with a diameter of about 10-12mm (0.4-0.5 inches) and a thickness of at least 3-5mm (0.1-0.2 inches). These provide optimal holding strength without being too strong.
2. Preparation: Open the door and mark where the magnet will work best on the door and the cabinet body. Usually, this is on the upper inner side of the door near the hinge mounting profile.
3. Recess: Rout or drill a shallow recess about 2-3mm (0.08-0.1 inches) deep into the inner side of the door and the matching area on the cabinet body, so the magnets fit flush. This prevents the magnets from protruding.
4. Fixing: Place the magnets into the recesses and secure them with strong wood glue or thin screws, depending on the magnet’s recommended mounting method. If retaining rings are included, use them.
5. Adjustment: Test the door to make sure it closes securely on its own but is still easy to open. If needed, you can slightly adjust the magnet positions.
6. Tip: Use protective rubber or felt between the magnet and the furniture if the magnet is too strong to avoid minor damage from repeated closing.
Important: Work carefully when drilling or routing to avoid damaging the MDF or veneer. If you don’t have a router, you can also use thin adhesive magnets, but the holding strength will be lower.
Hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Ethan schrieb:
If you like, I can also write you a step-by-step guide on how I retrofitted my Besta cabinets with magnets. Just let me know!Oh yes, that would be great, Ethan! I love customizing my Besta, and magnetic catches are really the perfect finishing touch!
taudi schrieb:
Important: Work carefully when drilling or routing to avoid damaging the MDF or veneer.Great tip, definitely keep that in mind! I was hesitant at first too, but with a little patience it works really well.
I glued my magnets to the outside of the frame, which also works, but installing them inside looks much more elegant. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how much of a difference it makes!
Good luck, it’s definitely worth it! 😊
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