ᐅ Light Reflections on Kallax High Gloss – How to Reduce Them?

Hello everyone,

I have a question regarding my Kallax shelving unit with high-gloss fronts. I’ve noticed that under certain lighting conditions—especially when direct sunlight or strong indoor lighting hits the surface—there are strong reflections and glare that make the furniture somewhat distracting.

My goal is to reduce or ideally avoid these light reflections without completely losing the high-gloss appearance.

Are there any proven methods or everyday tips to minimize these reflections on high-gloss surfaces? I’m referring to both adjustments in lighting as well as possible cleaning products or surface treatments that don’t heavily reduce the shine but at least soften the glare.

I’d appreciate any advice and experiences, especially if you already have Kallax high-gloss units at home and have dealt with this issue. Thanks in advance!

The most common cause of unwanted light reflections on high-gloss surfaces is direct lighting hitting the surface at an unfavorable angle.

To reduce reflections, I recommend first adjusting the position of the light sources, such as directing the light to fall as indirectly as possible on the surface. LED lamps with diffuse covers are preferable to focused spot lighting in this case.

Additionally, using a matte, very fine microfiber polishing cloth can help reduce individual reflections by slightly diffusing the light on the surface, without damaging the high-gloss finish.

In general, chemical surface treatments (such as waxes or sealants) are usually not recommended for high-gloss melamine, as they can discolor or dissolve the surface. If you still want to try sealants, make sure they are specifically designed and tested for high-gloss furniture.

Most effective: Position light sources so that no direct light shines on the front surfaces.

Additionally, you can use curtains or matte blinds to diffuse daylight.

Be careful with cleaning agents that scratch or leave residues, as this can increase reflection.

didieter schrieb:
Are there any proven methods or everyday tips to reduce these reflections on high-gloss surfaces?

A more comprehensive approach would be to consider not only adjusting the room lighting but also the positioning of the shelving unit itself. Especially with high-gloss Kallax units, it’s best to avoid placing them on the side exposed to direct sunlight, as direct sun rays often cause strong glare.

For maintenance, I recommend regularly cleaning the surfaces with a soft, damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt, as these can increase light diffraction.

If the reflections are still very strong, you might try a very gentle use of so-called "anti-reflective sprays" (designed for display surfaces). However, these should be used cautiously, as they can diminish the high-gloss finish.

If you want, I can also provide tips on how to create indirect lighting using LED strips behind the furniture with simple means, which can help soften the reflections.

elliot schrieb:
LED lamps with diffused covers are cheaper here than pinpoint spot lighting.

That is correct, but I would question the statement further: Is it always sensible to use diffuse light sources when you want to maintain a high-gloss finish?

High-gloss surfaces rely on precisely that light reflection, which creates the elegant effect. Converting to fully diffuse lighting could greatly reduce this effect.

The issue is more about the direction and intensity of the light source. A targeted, slightly shielded spot lighting (e.g., with a louver) can guide the reflection without destroying it.

So the question is rather whether it makes more sense to work with controlled lighting management instead of diffuse light, to shape reflections deliberately rather than simply reduce them.

First of all: Clean the surface regularly! Dirt intensifies reflections.

If possible, place the shelf outside of direct light paths.

I do not recommend anti-glare treatments, as they permanently damage the gloss.

A tip: Diffuse daylight with curtains or interior blinds; this often makes a significant difference.