ᐅ Which types of electrical outlets and cable grommets work well with Ikea Pax wardrobes?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to modify an Ikea Pax wardrobe to integrate a power outlet and cable pass-through. Since I want to operate several devices inside the wardrobe, it is important to me that the cables are neatly organized and that the outlets behind the back panel are easily accessible and securely installed.

My specific question is: which power outlets and cable pass-throughs work well with Ikea Pax wardrobes? Does anyone know suitable models that fit well into the thin back panel or the side panels without protruding too much or compromising stability? Are there any experiences with particular brands or types that are easy to install, look good, and provide enough space for multiple cables?

I look forward to any tips and recommendations, especially regarding materials, technology, and potential installation issues. Thanks!

junogo schrieb:
Which power outlets and cable grommets fit well in Ikea Pax wardrobes?

I think your question is well formulated and focused. However, I would critically consider whether the IKEA Pax back panel can tolerate that many cutouts without compromising stability.

Most back panels are quite thin and usually made of MDF or hardboard, so a large cutout can affect the stability and overall performance of the wardrobe. Therefore, my recommendation would be to use power strips mounted on the outside of the wardrobe, with cables routed through small holes.

Alternatively, there are special cable grommets with brush seals that allow multiple cables to pass through, but these are usually intended for thicker furniture panels. From a technical perspective, it is also important to check whether the electrical installation behind the back panel complies with standards and is safe – this should not be underestimated.

Tause schrieb:
Most back panels are quite thin and usually made of MDF or hardboard, so a large cutout can affect the stability and the behavior of the cabinet.

That’s true, you should proceed very carefully, junogo. If you are planning to cut a back panel, I recommend cable grommets with brush openings, which come in various sizes and can be easily installed with screws. These brushes also protect the cables from abrasion.

For my PAX wardrobes from Ikea, I used small plastic cable grommets recessed into a hole about 60mm (2.4 inches) in diameter. They are discreet and can accommodate several cables.

For the power outlets, I would suggest a flat power strip that you can fix in place with double-sided tape or screws, depending on what is possible for you. It is also important to consider the cable length and the accessibility of the outlets to avoid overcrowding.

I would like to share my experience with some technical details:

If you look at the Ikea Pax back panels, they are often thin hardboard panels (approximately 3 mm (0.1 inches)), which means you need to be very careful when cutting them out. A 60 mm (2.4 inches) drill hole is sufficient for common cable entries, but the edges must be deburred and fitted with edge protection to prevent cable abrasion.

My suggestions:
- Use cable grommets with brush seals made of plastic. These are available in different colors and sizes (e.g., 60 mm or 75 mm (2.4 inches or 3 inches) diameter).
- For power strips, flat models with screw mounting or those that can be mounted on the inside of the cabinet work well. Make sure the power strip has as many sockets as possible while still remaining slim.
- If you want to run multiple cables at once, it is worth using a cable entry plate with several openings or a cable tray inside the cabinet.

One tip: If you decide to make a cutout in the back panel, try to position it as close to the bottom as possible, since the resistance of the back panel is better supported there by the cabinet feet.

Finally, I would like to know how many power sockets you are planning and which devices you want to connect, so I can provide tailored recommendations.

I have had good experiences with these 60 mm (2.4 inches) brush cable glands that simply screw in. They are unobtrusive, protect the cables, and fit into the thin back panel.

For power outlets: flat power strips that can be screwed onto the interior wall. They come in different lengths, allowing you to connect multiple devices. It is important to plan the cables early.

lorena schrieb:
Finally, I would like to know how many power outlets you are planning and which devices you want to connect, in order to provide tailored recommendations.

Thanks for the detailed advice, lorena! I am mainly planning:
- An LED lighting system
- A charger for my e-bike battery
- A small Wi-Fi router box

Therefore, I need at least 3-4 power outlets, ideally with surge protection. The cable entries should accommodate at least 3 cables simultaneously, with some extra room, as additional devices may be added later.

It is also important to me that the setup looks neat and remains easily accessible. Mounting on the back panel at about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) above the floor seems reasonable, as lorena suggested.

Looking forward to more tips!