ᐅ Where can you find affordable alternative inserts for the KALLAX shelving unit?

Hello everyone,
I’m currently working on customizing my KALLAX shelf unit and noticed that the original inserts are quite expensive. Therefore, I’m specifically looking for affordable alternative inserts that can either be purchased directly or made at home with some DIY skills.

I’m especially interested in inserts like drawers, boxes, or doors that fit into the KALLAX modules. It would also be great to find sources where price and quality are well balanced. Does anyone have tips on where to get such alternative inserts or how to make them effectively yourself?

I’m looking forward to your recommendations and experiences!

Take a look on eBay Classifieds or in local building supply and furniture stores. There are often inexpensive used items or clearance stock available. DIY inserts made from plywood or MDF can be quickly and affordably built yourself.

lopra schrieb:
DIY inserts made from plywood or MDF can be built quickly and affordably.

That’s a very good approach! If you want to customize KALLAX units, you should make sure the dimensions of the inserts are exact: ideally about 33.5 x 33.5 cm (13.2 x 13.2 inches) for the interior of the cabinet. Since many affordable wood panels from hardware stores are sold in larger sizes, you can have them cut to size easily.

Make sure to smooth the edges either by sanding or by applying edge banding to avoid splinters. For drawers, simple wooden box elements equipped with rollers work well – there are also inexpensive drawer slide options available online, for example on Amazon or specialized hardware store websites.

If you want doors or panels, lightweight multiplex plywood or even plastic sheets are affordable and easy to work with. Additionally, magnets or simple turn locks can be used for closures.

One more question: How much DIY skill do you want to invest? Are you looking only for ready-made inserts, or are you open to self-build instructions?

Also: Some furniture suppliers now offer universal boxes in KALLAX dimensions, often cheaper than IKEA itself. It’s worth checking those options as well.

reybo schrieb:
How much DIY skill do you want to invest? Are you looking for ready-made inserts, or are you open to self-build instructions?

I think this is a key point. If you’re not very handy, it can be frustrating to make your own inserts. In that case, I would recommend affordable alternatives from IKEA or other suppliers that can be easily adapted.

For example, third-party providers like SONGMICS or Relaxdays often offer inexpensive boxes and inserts in KALLAX size, which you can use right away. These are usually made of plastic or fabric and offer good flexibility.

Another option is sturdy folding fabric boxes, which you can find cheaply at discount stores or online. They aren’t rigid drawers but are sufficient for many storage needs.

If you want something a bit more stable, you can also have low-cost acrylic or plexiglass sheets cut to size. Although this is somewhat more expensive than wood, it is very durable and has a modern look.

When it comes to doors, you should pay attention to compatible fittings because the original IKEA hinges are designed only for KALLAX inserts. If you make your own doors, this is an important factor.

What is your main practical goal specifically? More storage space with drawers, or rather closed compartments?

Lenfa schrieb:
What exactly is your main purpose? More storage with drawers, or rather closed compartments?

Thanks for the detailed advice! I’m mainly interested in drawer solutions, as I currently have open compartments for small items that often look cluttered. It would also be great if the inserts aren’t too heavy so they can be pulled out easily, and if they’re sturdy enough not to break quickly.

Regarding doors, I would actually need to check first if they are necessary. I think drawers are a higher priority for me.

I’m reasonably skilled with DIY, but I don’t have a large workshop—more basic tools. So a construction guide that is as simple as possible and uses standard materials would be helpful.

Are there good online resources or plans available with these requirements? And do you know sources for affordable materials where you don’t have to place a large order?

mucarlin schrieb:
I’m reasonably skilled with DIY, but I don’t have a large collection of power tools at home – mostly just basic hand tools.

For efficiency, I recommend focusing on plywood panels with a thickness of 6–9 mm (1/4–3/8 inch). These can be easily cut with standard hand saws. A simple drill for screws or small brackets is sufficient.

For the KALLAX insert, you could, for example, design a simple slot system: side panels, bottom, and back can be connected with simple fix connectors or glued with wooden dowels. Alternatively, ready-made kits from hardware stores in standard sizes can also be adapted.

When looking for suppliers, it’s worth checking out specialized wood retailers such as Obi, Hornbach, or Bauhaus. They often offer cutting services for a small additional fee. Plywood is durable and reasonably priced.

In addition, there are now online providers offering ready-made drawer inserts specifically for KALLAX – there you can find an overview and price-comparison for budget-friendly options:
- www.regalatlas.de
- www.mobelkasten24.de

Also, take a look at forum posts explaining DIY drawers with rollers or drawer slides with pre-made rails, as these tips can make assembly much easier.