ᐅ IKEA BESTA – How can I replace the drawer fronts?

Hello everyone, I plan to replace the drawer fronts of my IKEA Besta cabinet to achieve a more modern look. My specific question is: How exactly do I remove the old fronts without damaging the drawers themselves or the internal mechanisms? I am also interested in whether there are certain materials or dimensions I should consider when purchasing new fronts to ensure they fit and can be installed without issues. Who has experience with this and can provide tips on dismantling, accurate measuring, and suitable replacement parts? Thank you in advance!

The drawer fronts on IKEA BESTA units are usually attached with clips or screws. Simply pull out the drawer, then release the clips or remove the screws. When reinstalling, make sure to position everything accurately so it fits properly. It’s best to take measurements directly from the existing fronts.

Regarding disassembly: In most BESTA systems, the fronts on the drawers are attached with special connectors, usually Euro hinges or clip-on fittings. To avoid damage, I recommend carefully loosening the fastening screws instead of forcefully pulling them off. Accurate measurements are essential to prevent fitting issues later on. When measuring, you should consider not only the width and height of the front but also its thickness, as the visual appearance can be affected otherwise. For material and design, it is sensible to take the style of the other furniture components into account; an identical thickness of about 16 mm (5/8 inch) is often standard.

Hello felido, I can well understand that replacing a drawer front on BESTA is not entirely straightforward – I struggled a bit myself during the first attempt. I think it’s important that you take your time and don’t rush. First, pull the drawer out completely, then carefully release the front panel from the clips using a screwdriver, if clips are present. In my case, there were also small plastic clips that could be unlocked with gentle pressure. Usually, a non-destructive disassembly works best this way. Regarding the measurements: I measured each side individually back then, as a bit of leeway when fitting helps, especially if the new fronts are made from different materials. If any questions come up, feel free to reach out anytime, I’m happy to help!

For drawer fronts on BESTA units, simply pull the drawer out and loosen the screws. Cut new fronts to size or order pre-made ones with matching mounting holes. Pay attention to alignment during installation.

KESIRI schrieb:
The drawer fronts on IKEA BESTA are usually attached with clips or screws.

That is correct, although the fastening mechanism can vary slightly depending on the production year and model. I recommend identifying the model or mounting system before removal and installation to avoid purchasing the wrong parts.

sonplo schrieb:
When measuring, accuracy is essential to prevent fitting issues later on.

Additionally, it's important to check the material of the fronts carefully. For example, if you expect higher loads, you might consider using a thicker MDF board or even HPL surfaces. IKEA fronts are often 16mm (0.63 inches) thick; for custom-built fronts, the thickness should be chosen accordingly to ensure the clips fit and the drawer hinge does not get obstructed.

In summary, I recommend carefully verifying the fastening method and material thickness before ordering new fronts, as overlooking this can lead to costly mistakes.