ᐅ Kallax color fades in sunlight – any experiences?

Hello everyone,

I have been using several IKEA Kallax shelves for about a year now, all in white. I have increasingly noticed that the color on the shelves and the sides facing the window is fading significantly, appearing yellowish or dull.

I am wondering if anyone else has had similar experiences with Kallax in direct sunlight? I am especially interested in whether this discoloration is a general issue with the surface coating used or if it is more related to your specific light conditions.

Are there any tips on how to prevent this fading, or is repainting or refinishing inevitable after a while?

I look forward to your feedback and, ideally, concrete solutions. Thank you in advance!

Hi, yes, my Kallax also fades, especially when it is placed in direct sunlight. My tip: it’s better not to position it right next to a window, or use UV-protective film.

For me, the color changed slightly after about two years, but it was not dramatic. It might also depend on the shade. I can only recommend changing the location.

BELLA34 schrieb:
My tip: better not to place it directly next to a window or use UV protection film.

That’s a good point, but I wonder if the issue is really just caused by sunlight exposure or if the film or paint layer used on the Kallax is inherently less resistant to UV light.

Does anyone have more detailed information about the material composition or surface coating to better assess this?

enrique7 schrieb:
I wonder if it is really just the sunlight exposure or if the coating or paint layer used on Kallax is inherently less resistant to UV light.

Thanks for the thought-provoking input! I have some knowledge about laminate surfaces – they often change color due to UV exposure.

Kallax typically uses melamine resin-coated particleboard, which should be fairly UV resistant, but probably not completely. Also, keep in mind that the color tone affects absorption rates. Light colors like white are more prone to yellowing from sunlight because UV rays can chemically degrade the binding agents.

Hey, I also place mine by the window, but with a thin curtain in front of it. This lets light in, but not the full intensity.

Since then, nothing has faded. I’m not a chemist, but maybe an easy solution to prevent sun damage for the Kallax. 🙂