ᐅ Are there any DIY tips for customizing Ikea Besta units for kitchen use?

Created on: 15 Sep 2018 19:32
M
Michealka
M
Michealka
15 Sep 2018 19:32
Hello everyone, I am planning to design my kitchen using Ikea Besta cabinets but would like to customize them a bit more to suit my needs. Are there any proven DIY tips on how to modify Ikea Besta furniture specifically for kitchen use? For example, adjustments regarding stability, better storage organization, or integration of appliances? I am also interested in whether the surfaces can be made more durable for everyday kitchen use. I look forward to your experiences and ideas!
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Josan
15 Sep 2018 19:48
Hello Michealka,

I think your question is very well formulated – especially since the Besta series was not originally designed specifically for kitchens, there are many great DIY tricks to still make it functional. Regarding stability: it helps to fasten the modules additionally to the wall and, if necessary, support them with hardwood strips so they don’t wobble, especially when heavy appliances are inside.

For storage: interior drawers or box inserts from the kitchen sector often fit well inside, which significantly improves organization. For the surfaces, sealing with a special clear coat that is water- and heat-resistant is recommended – make sure to sand well beforehand!

If you like, I can also share tips for integrating appliance connections.
R
Rashadmeo
15 Sep 2018 20:07
Super interesting topic! I remodeled my Besta cabinets for the kitchen and I really enjoy them. 🙂

My absolute insider tip: Use power strips inside the cabinets, which you then connect to the wall through a cable. This way, you can hide small appliances like the coffee maker or toaster directly inside – very practical and invisible. Also, I improved the doors with magnetic catches to ensure they close firmly and quietly.

Another tip: Colored films or self-adhesive tiles on the surfaces look great visually and additionally protect against scratches. Just give it a try!
M
Michealka
15 Sep 2018 20:19
Josan schrieb:
Regarding stability: It helps to secure the modules to the wall additionally and, if necessary, support them with hardwood battens to prevent wobbling, especially when heavy appliances are installed inside.

Thank you for the advice, Josan! How exactly should I attach the hardwood battens effectively? Should they be fixed at the bottom edge of the cabinet or rather at the back? Also, are there preferred types of wood for these battens that can withstand moisture well in the kitchen?
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REPITAR
15 Sep 2018 21:03
Hello Michealka,

I would like to answer your question with a brief guide:

1. Attaching Hardwood Strips:
- Ideally, attach the strips to the underside of the cabinet carcass, between the floor and the cabinet unit. This helps distribute the weight evenly and makes the cabinet more stable on the floor.
- Additionally, you can fix a strip along the entire back of the cabinet with long screws to prevent wobbling against the wall.

2. Types of Wood:
- Oak or beech are suitable because they are durable and take well to varnish or oil finishes.
- Important: Always treat the strips with a water-repellent wood preservative to protect against moisture damage.

3. Procedure:
- Cut the strips to size and sand the edges.
- Before mounting, apply several coats of wood oil or varnish to all surfaces.
- Then fasten the strips to the Besta cabinet carcasses using wood screws.

I hope this helps you stabilize your cabinet!
T
Traman4
16 Sep 2018 08:14
Regarding storage space: Interior drawers from Ikea or third-party manufacturers fit well into the Besta system. This allows you to use the space efficiently and provides better access to utensils. Additionally, cabinet doors can be upgraded with hanging shelves for spices or kitchen tools.

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