ᐅ Which tools are unnecessary for assembling the IKEA Brimnes?

Hello everyone,

I’m planning to assemble the IKEA Brimnes bedroom set and want to prepare as best as possible. My question is quite specific: Which tools are definitely unnecessary for assembling the IKEA Brimnes wardrobe or the dressers and can therefore be left out?

I have seen some instructions and know that the required tools are usually quite basic, but I don’t want to waste time experimenting or buy tools I won’t need. I’m especially interested in whether the included tools or basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, etc.) are sufficient, and if, for example, certain more expensive tools or even power tools are completely unnecessary.

I would appreciate hearing about any direct experience and, if possible, a brief explanation of why a particular tool is not needed.

Thanks for your help!

Hello emekage,

I have assembled the Brimnes wardrobe and dressers several times, so I’m happy to share my experience.

First of all: Most components of the Brimnes set are designed for DIY enthusiasts who don’t necessarily have a wide range of tools. That’s why the included Allen key set is already sufficient for the screws. You can tighten all the connectors well with it.

About unnecessary tools:
- Hammer: In my experience, you only need this if the dowels fit very tightly, but often everything can be fitted without hammering. If you’re careful, I wouldn’t call it essential.
- Cordless drill: While it’s convenient and saves time, it’s not strictly necessary for Brimnes. The screws don’t require much force.
- Large pliers or pipe wrenches: These are completely unnecessary since the connections work only with screws and dowels that can be tightened by hand.

For assembly, I recommend:
- The supplied Allen key
- A Phillips screwdriver (some parts are fastened with this)
- Possibly a small hammer, if you are cautious

A tip: Try to start tightening the screws by hand with the Allen key before fully tightening them. This helps prevent damaged screws or wood.

I hope this helps you.

RUBEN54 schrieb:
Hammer: In my experience, you only need it if the dowels fit tightly, but often everything can be assembled without hammering.

I agree with that. The Brimnes comes with practical mounting hardware designed for simple tools. Therefore, a hammer or clamps are usually unnecessary.

A cordless drill isn’t wrong to use, but if you only use the included Allen key and a Phillips screwdriver, you are perfectly equipped. Power tools can even be risky, as you might damage the material too quickly.

In summary, I recommend:
- Allen key (included)
- Phillips screwdriver

Additional tools like a hammer, cordless drill, or pliers are not necessary for assembling the Brimnes.

I would like to share some personal experience here, as the Brimnes wardrobe was quite a challenge for me back then.

emekage schrieb:
Which tools are definitely unnecessary for assembling the IKEA Brimnes wardrobe or the dressers and can therefore be left out?

It’s important not to get overwhelmed by the list of tools. The first time I assembled it, I prepared way too many tools and realized that many of them were completely unnecessary.

Classic tools like a cordless drill or hammer are usually available at home but are not essential for this piece of furniture. Especially the cordless drill: with the Brimnes, you often need to screw precisely and not too tightly, otherwise the material can warp or the screws may go in crooked.

Personally, I would consider the following tools unnecessary:
- Cordless drill
- Tape measure (because the parts fit exactly and are marked)
- Clamps or vices
- Larger hammer (a small hammer can sometimes be helpful, but it’s not always necessary)

Instead, take your time and rely on manual work rather than unnecessary technology. That made the assembly easier for me back then.