ᐅ How do I attach a plinth/baseboard to an Ikea Pax wardrobe?

Created on: 4 Feb 2023 08:47
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BILUBU
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BILUBU
4 Feb 2023 08:47
Hello everyone, I recently bought an Ikea Pax wardrobe and now want to attach a baseboard to it to ensure the wardrobe is as stable as possible and has a neat finish at floor level. My question is: what is the best way to attach a baseboard to an Ikea Pax wardrobe so that it looks good and holds securely?

I am particularly interested in which materials and fastening methods are recommended – should I use clamp strips, screws, or are there specific baseboards from Ikea that can be easily installed?

Also, I would like to know if I need to disassemble the wardrobe beforehand to attach the baseboard properly, or if it can be done while the wardrobe is already assembled.

I would appreciate it if anyone could share their experiences or tips, possibly including step-by-step instructions or advice on common pitfalls. Thank you!
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Friedrich
4 Feb 2023 09:13
BILUBU schrieb:
What is the best way to attach a base to an Ikea Pax wardrobe so that it both fits visually and holds securely?

That’s really a good question, which I asked myself some time ago as well. I can definitely understand wanting stability to be satisfactory not only in terms of appearance but also functionally. For me, it was important that the base sits flush and doesn’t leave any gaps, because otherwise it quickly looks untidy. While assembling it myself, I realized that the level of precision required is sometimes underestimated. Have you already fully assembled the wardrobe? That often helps to determine if adjustment is needed on one side.
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nubar
4 Feb 2023 09:52
Basically, there are two proven ways to attach a base to an Ikea Pax wardrobe: either use the original Ikea bases specifically designed for Pax, or create a custom solution that needs to be adapted accordingly.

- The Ikea bases are usually attached with clips that engage with the furniture legs. This method is simple and leaves no marks.
- Alternatively, you can cut wood to size and secure it from the inside using screws or brackets.

Whether the wardrobe needs to be disassembled depends on the method. Clips are best attached during assembly, while screws can also be installed on an assembled piece, although stability may be somewhat reduced during installation.

By the way, precise alignment is important to prevent the doors from sticking.
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naujon
4 Feb 2023 10:30
I recently spent a lot of time exploring this topic and can recommend a structured approach based on experience:

1. Measuring: Determine the exact plinth height you need to achieve a visually balanced look.
2. Selection: Choose the material. IKEA offers plinths in various colors, otherwise you can use MDF or plywood and paint it accordingly.
3. Preparation: If possible, assemble the cabinet partially so you can attach the plinth from underneath. This makes installation easier.
4. Attachment: I recommend using hidden screws from the inside into the side panels—this way, no screw heads are visible from the outside.
5. Spacers: Make sure the plinth has about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) of clearance from the floor to prevent moisture damage.

A common mistake is simply gluing or stapling the plinth on the outside. This often doesn’t hold well and doesn’t look professional.
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Espen
4 Feb 2023 11:12
For a Pax wardrobe, I simply used the original baseboards from Ikea. These are screwed onto the cabinet’s bottom panel. It’s important to adjust the feet beforehand so that the baseboard fits flush and doesn’t appear crooked.
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Nathanaelk
5 Feb 2023 14:05
To thoroughly address the topic of plinths for Ikea Pax wardrobes, I would like to present some technical aspects that are often overlooked:

- Attachment method: Ikea plinths for Pax typically use a combination of clips and screws. The clips engage with the holes on the inside of the frame profiles.

- Preparation: It is advisable to carefully check the corresponding holes at the plinth height in advance. Pax modules vary depending on the production year and model, so there may be differences.

- Assembly on the fully built unit: I recommend using self-tapping screws with a narrow head, installed from the inside to preserve the external appearance. Make sure to pre-drill lightly to avoid splitting the material.

- Plinth height and floor unevenness: Measure the floor precisely and check the level using a spirit level. Small washers or spacers might be necessary to fit the plinth perfectly horizontal.

- Materials: MDF boards are well-suited because they are smooth and easy to paint. Alternatively, multiplex (plywood) can be used, which is somewhat sturdier but also more expensive.

- Tip: For protection against moisture at the floor level, plinths with a plastic coating are advantageous.

I would be interested to know what your floor surface is like. Are there any uneven spots or carpeted areas?