ᐅ Which tools do I need to assemble Ikea Pax wardrobes?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to assemble an Ikea PAX wardrobe soon and want to prepare thoroughly, especially regarding the tools. Therefore, my specific question is: What tools are absolutely necessary to assemble an Ikea PAX wardrobe safely, efficiently, and without major difficulties?

I assume the typical Ikea Allen key is included, but are that and maybe a simple screwdriver really enough? Are there particular tools that are helpful because they make the work easier, or even necessary because the provided tools alone are not sufficient?

I would really appreciate tips on tool selection that have proven useful during actual assembly—feel free to include recommendations on types of tools or brands that have worked well.

Thanks in advance for your support!

Nassim schrieb:
Which tools are absolutely necessary to assemble an Ikea PAX wardrobe safely, efficiently, and without major difficulties?

Hey Nassim,

first of all, great that you are preparing so carefully! 😊 For the PAX, the included Allen key is actually the minimum you need. But if you want to make the process easier and faster, I recommend also having a cordless drill with an Allen bit – this saves a lot of time and effort.

In addition, a Phillips screwdriver can be useful since some screws grip better with it. For the dowel holes, a small hammer is sometimes handy, especially when the wall plugs need to be tapped in.

My tip: Have a spirit level on hand to check if your wardrobe is standing straight later on – this helps avoid doors sticking.

So, in summary, you need: the Allen key (included), cordless drill with bits, screwdriver, and hammer. It might sound like a lot, but with the cordless drill, the assembly goes much more smoothly. Good luck and have fun building!

Nassim schrieb:
Are there any specific tools that are helpful because they make the work easier or even necessary because the provided tools alone are not sufficient?

Very good question – to give you a precise answer, it would be useful to know whether the PAX is delivered in a standard version with pre-drilled holes or if, for example, you are planning a special combination with sliding doors that might require a different assembly.

Basically, I recommend the following procedure and tools:

- Use the supplied Allen wrench to fasten the special cam connectors.
- A cordless drill with adjustable torque settings to avoid over-tightening the screws – otherwise, the chipboard can get damaged.
- A good Phillips screwdriver (size PH2), since many screws have a Phillips head.
- A small hammer to position dowels or fittings.
- A spirit level to ensure the unit is perfectly level, especially if it is going to be fixed to the wall.
- Possibly one or two clamps if you want to securely hold parts together while screwing.

If you plan to connect the PAX units or install sliding doors, rubber or plastic mallets might also be useful.

I would also advise checking the assembly area beforehand to make sure there is enough space and to pay attention to stable fixing points.

Can you also say whether you will be working alone or if you have help? That might influence your choice of tools and holding aids.

I hope this helps you already!

TYRELL schrieb:
Can you also mention whether you’re working alone or if you have help?

Thank you for the detailed advice, TYRELL! I expect to be working alone, and the cabinet is the standard version with hinged doors. For that reason, I want to keep the tool list as minimal as possible without risking any issues during assembly.

The tip about the cordless drill needing adjustable torque is important to avoid damaging the screws.

So, if I only have a cordless drill, the included Allen key, a Phillips screwdriver, and a hammer, would I be basically covered?

I’m asking because I don’t plan on making large investments in tools, but rather getting something I can use long-term for similar installations.

A cordless screwdriver with hex bits, a Phillips screwdriver, hammer, and spirit level are sufficient.

The hex key is usually included. Without a cordless screwdriver, it takes a bit longer.

A spirit level helps prevent an uneven assembly.

Nassim schrieb:
So if I only have a cordless drill, the included Allen key, a Phillips screwdriver, and a hammer, am I basically well prepared?

Absolutely yes! With exactly those tools, the PAX assembly goes smoothly!

At first, I only had the Allen key and a screwdriver too, but the cordless drill really makes a difference. Suddenly everything goes much faster, and screwing becomes easy! 😄

And don’t worry, nothing will be crooked if you use a spirit level and maybe a bit of patience.

Have fun – you’ve got this!