Hello everyone, I recently bought an IKEA Besta shelving unit and really appreciate the flexibility it offers in assembly. However, I’m concerned about how to protect the surface from scratches over time. The surfaces are usually painted or covered with a laminate, so mechanical damage shows up quite easily. Are there any proven methods or materials to protect the surfaces without affecting the appearance? How do you handle this in everyday use, and are there any products you recommend? I’m looking forward to your experiences and tips!
Hello Rufo46,
Your question is very well chosen. Especially with furniture like the Besta, which often has lacquered MDF boards or melamine-coated surfaces, protecting the surface is essential. First, it’s important to know exactly where you expect the scratches—are they on the top surfaces, which are often used as places to set things down, or rather on the side fronts? This matters because different protection methods can be applied.
There are various protection options for the surfaces:
- Clear lacquer or acrylic sealant: Specifically suitable for lacquered surfaces, this can be applied after assembly. It creates an additional, durable protective layer.
- Protective films: Thin, transparent protective films can be cut to size and adhered precisely. They are relatively unobtrusive but provide good scratch protection, especially on high-gloss surfaces.
- Furniture pads made of felt or rubber: For areas where you place, for example, decorative items or electronic devices, thin felt or rubber mats are suitable to avoid direct contact and thus prevent scratches.
It is also important to clean regularly with mild cleaners—do not use abrasive sponges or aggressive cleaning agents, as these can damage the lacquer or the film.
What exactly does your Besta look like? Which surface type (high-gloss, matte, wood decor)? And how is the carcass used? This way I can give you more targeted suggestions.
Your question is very well chosen. Especially with furniture like the Besta, which often has lacquered MDF boards or melamine-coated surfaces, protecting the surface is essential. First, it’s important to know exactly where you expect the scratches—are they on the top surfaces, which are often used as places to set things down, or rather on the side fronts? This matters because different protection methods can be applied.
There are various protection options for the surfaces:
- Clear lacquer or acrylic sealant: Specifically suitable for lacquered surfaces, this can be applied after assembly. It creates an additional, durable protective layer.
- Protective films: Thin, transparent protective films can be cut to size and adhered precisely. They are relatively unobtrusive but provide good scratch protection, especially on high-gloss surfaces.
- Furniture pads made of felt or rubber: For areas where you place, for example, decorative items or electronic devices, thin felt or rubber mats are suitable to avoid direct contact and thus prevent scratches.
It is also important to clean regularly with mild cleaners—do not use abrasive sponges or aggressive cleaning agents, as these can damage the lacquer or the film.
What exactly does your Besta look like? Which surface type (high-gloss, matte, wood decor)? And how is the carcass used? This way I can give you more targeted suggestions.
M
marcosku526 Jan 2019 12:56PLOMA schrieb:
There are different protection options for surfaces:I agree with that – nothing is worse than when a beautiful new Besta piece loses its charm because of scratches! I personally chose a combination of felt pads for decorative objects and a thin protective film on the surface. The film is hardly visible and makes life easier because you don’t have to worry about every little thing.
And hey, small scratches are part of furniture life, but if you take preventive measures from the start, the piece will stay looking new longer – which makes us all happy 😄!
Oh, and a little tip: If you do get a scratch, try using special furniture touch-up markers; they can partially hide minor damage! But of course, better to protect than to repair.
I would like to add an important point to the discussion: besides physical protective measures, how the surface is used is crucial. For example, it is advisable not to place dirty or sandy objects directly on the Besta surface without a protective layer. Also, sliding heavy decorative items without a protective underlay can quickly cause scratches.
Furthermore, I recommend avoiding the use of solvents when cleaning, as they can damage the surface coating. Usually, a lightly dampened, soft microfiber cloth is sufficient. For furniture with a matte melamine finish, gently wiping the surface regularly helps remove small dirt particles that could otherwise act like abrasive agents.
In summary: combining mechanical protection with felt pads or protective films and careful handling provides the best protection for the surface.
Furthermore, I recommend avoiding the use of solvents when cleaning, as they can damage the surface coating. Usually, a lightly dampened, soft microfiber cloth is sufficient. For furniture with a matte melamine finish, gently wiping the surface regularly helps remove small dirt particles that could otherwise act like abrasive agents.
In summary: combining mechanical protection with felt pads or protective films and careful handling provides the best protection for the surface.
dota57 schrieb:
In summary: Combining mechanical protection with felt pads or protective films along with mindful use offers the best surface protection.I completely agree! 😃
I used to use my Besta with bare objects quite often, which quickly caused visible scratches that really bothered me. Since I started using some felt pads designed for plant coasters and small felt mats, the shelving unit looks like new, and I use it much more casually.
My tip: Especially for high-gloss surfaces, investing in good protective films is worth it. They can be applied almost invisibly, and the feeling of having a "precious" piece of furniture goes away. Then you can use the Besta confidently without constantly worrying about scratches. So, get started!
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