ᐅ Which screws are best to use if the original IKEA HEMNES screws are missing?

Hello everyone,

I have a problem with a Hemnes furniture piece from IKEA, as some of the original screws are unfortunately missing. Since IKEA currently does not offer replacements, I am wondering which screws would be best to securely and permanently assemble the furniture.

It is important that the screws match the prefabricated holes and fittings exactly in both length and diameter. It would also be helpful to know if there are specific thread types that IKEA typically uses in Hemnes furniture to avoid damaging the wood and to ensure durability.

Perhaps someone has experience with suitable replacement screws or knows general quality criteria to consider when choosing screws for this series? Any advice on whether it is better to use metric screws or special furniture connectors would also be very helpful.

Thank you in advance for your input!

Hello rabasel,

IKEA HEMNES furniture mainly uses screws with metric threads, usually M4 or M5. The original screws are sized in length to match the specific connection points.

I recommend choosing replacement screws with an ISO metric thread and a diameter of 4 mm (0.16 inches) or 5 mm (0.20 inches), as these are the most compatible. The length should ideally correspond to the missing fastener, typically between 30 and 50 mm (1.2 to 2 inches).

For the thread type, a fully threaded screw is advisable since the material is usually particleboard or fiberboard. Coarse threads grip better in soft wood without splitting it. Additionally, a zinc-coated or stainless steel finish provides corrosion resistance.

If you need screws that fit specific fittings exactly, drilling new holes is usually unnecessary because replacement screws are designed to match the original sizes.

I also suggest flat-head screws to fit the countersunk holes in IKEA furniture, keeping the surface neat.

In summary: M4 or M5, fully threaded, zinc-coated or stainless steel, length 30–50 mm (1.2–2 inches), flat head.

Blavin schrieb:
I recommend choosing replacement screws with a metric ISO thread and a diameter of 4 mm (0.16 inches) or 5 mm (0.20 inches), as these are best compatible.

I completely agree, but I would like to add that you should definitely measure the thickness of the parts where the screws will be inserted before purchasing. HEMNES furniture is often made from solid pine combined with MDF or particleboard components.

When it comes to the thread, it’s important to consider the correct profile: IKEA mostly uses wood screws with coarse threads, as these increase holding strength in wood. Fine threads are rather rare in furniture.

I would also recommend testing the screws beforehand and comparing them with an original screw or at least the mounting point for proper fit. A screw shaft that is too long can damage the material from the inside or even puncture it.

Furthermore, pay attention to the screw head: flat heads are standard, but for some connections, pan heads or countersunk heads with internal hex drives (Allen heads) are also common.

If you have access to similar HEMNES furniture, you can measure a sample there — length, diameter, thread size, and head dimensions — to make replacement sourcing even more precise.

Is there a specific type of furniture (e.g., bed, dresser) for which you need replacements? That could influence the choice of screws.

Le_kin schrieb:
Is there a specific type of furniture (e.g., bed, dresser) for which you need replacements? That could influence the choice of screws.

Thank you for the detailed explanation! It concerns a HEMNES 3-drawer dresser. The missing screws are mainly those for the side attachments of the drawer slides and the screws that connect the carcass parts.

The original screws were mostly black with an internal hex drive. I only have an approximate length so far; they seem to be about 35mm (1.4 inches).

I was planning to buy M4 black zinc-plated screws with an internal hex drive but would gladly accept more precise recommendations, especially regarding whether wood screws for particleboard with partial threading are better suited than fully threaded screws for furniture assembly.

It is important to me that the connections are neither too loose nor cause the material to swell or split. Are there any recommendations for screw types that specifically address these stresses in HEMNES dressers? Thank you!

rabasel schrieb:
Are there any recommendations for screw types that specifically address these stresses in HEMNES dressers?

The combination of particleboard and MDF in HEMNES dressers clearly favors screws with partial threading (wood screws). The unthreaded shank near the head prevents the screw from pulling the wood panels apart under tension, which is especially important for carcass joints.

For the side mounting of drawer slides, it is advisable to use screws with a hex socket head, as they allow better torque application and reduce the risk of slipping during tightening.

Black zinc-plated screws closely match the original appearance and also offer corrosion resistance.

A size that consistently works well for HEMNES is M4 x 35 mm (about 1.4 inches), sometimes M4 x 30 mm (about 1.2 inches); it is important that the screw is neither too short for a secure hold nor too long to avoid damaging the material.

Summary:
- M4 partial thread wood screws
- Hex socket head (compatible with, for example, an Allen key)
- Length around 30–35 mm (about 1.2–1.4 inches)
- Black zinc plating

This should ensure the dresser is securely assembled and durable under load.