ᐅ Which tools make assembling the IKEA BESTA easier?

Hello everyone, I’m currently facing the challenge of assembling an IKEA Besta cabinet and would like to know: which tools make the assembly of this piece of furniture easier? I’m interested not only in the usual screwdrivers or Allen keys but also in any practical aids that can make the process more efficient and less frustrating. Are there, for example, special power tools, particular types of screwdrivers, or other helpful items like angles or clamps that have significantly improved your handling? I’m looking forward to your recommendations, experiences, and also tips for common pitfalls during assembly.

Hello Edithapra, I read your post and would like to give you a structured overview of the tools that work particularly well for assembling IKEA BESTA:

- Allen wrench (usually included, but it’s often worth having a set with different sizes)
- Cordless screwdriver with low torque: Be sure to set it precisely, otherwise wood or plastic threads can be damaged.
- Phillips screwdriver (PH2) for the small screws where the Allen wrench doesn’t fit.
- Clamps: These are very useful for holding parts together during assembly, especially if you’re working with a partner.
- Squares and carpenter’s squares help to check for right angles.

Tip: Use a small bit with your cordless screwdriver and also occasionally use a manual screwdriver when fine adjustments are needed. A common mistake is working too quickly with the cordless screwdriver, which can lead to overdriven screws or misaligned hinges. A gentle approach is very helpful here.

I hope these tips make your assembly easier!

Jensson schrieb:
Tip: When using a cordless screwdriver, bring along some small bits and also use a manual screwdriver for fine adjustments.

I completely agree! I would also recommend having a small rubber mallet handy – wooden parts can often be a bit tricky, and it’s very useful for assembling everything without causing damage. 😄

And if you want to keep things relaxed: have a bottle of water nearby and take a few deep breaths now and then. Assembling furniture is supposed to be fun, not just hard work! 😉

Oh, almost forgot: An organizer for screws and small parts often saves the day, so you don’t have to spend ages digging under the table looking for the right screw.

Additional information: Power tools can significantly speed up assembly but must be used carefully to avoid damage. The IKEA BESTA cabinet often uses chipboard screws inserted into pre-drilled holes, so applying too much force can cause splintering.

Specifically, I recommend:
- Cordless screwdrivers with torque control
- Precision screwdrivers for small screws
- Rubber or plastic hammers for gently tapping in dowels
- Clamps or straps to hold larger parts in place during screwing

Alignment aids such as small squares can help assemble the cabinet at exact right angles—especially important for shelving systems.

A simple square and an adjustable tape measure are usually sufficient to work precisely without needing advanced measuring tools.

A cordless screwdriver with torque adjustment and a set of good Allen keys are the minimum requirements. A manual screwdriver for retightening during fine adjustments. Clamps for securing parts. A rubber or wooden mallet for fitting the components.

dijan schrieb:
A screw and small parts organizer often saves the day, so you don’t have to dig under the table forever looking for the right screw.

This is very important advice. In several assembly projects, including BESTA, I have found that systematically sorting screws beforehand saves a lot of time and prevents frustration. It also reduces unnecessary trips and keeps the floor clean.

Additional tip: If you are using electromechanical tools, make sure to check after each step that all parts are still properly seated. Over-tightening often causes components to become difficult to realign later on.

I have also found a small magnetic retrieval tool useful for quickly and safely picking up dropped screws.