ᐅ How do I install a charging station inside an Ikea BESTA unit?

Hello everyone, I am facing the challenge of installing a charging station for my smartphone and other devices discreetly inside an Ikea Besta cabinet. Specifically, I am looking for advice on how to integrate the power supply safely and neatly without damaging the furniture or affecting its appearance. I have a moderate level of technical knowledge but want to be cautious, especially regarding wiring, mounting the chargers (e.g., Qi chargers), and any necessary openings. Has anyone had experience with this type of installation? Are there any special tips on how to route the wiring discreetly and which charging station would be most suitable? Thanks for your expertise!

Hello borisneo,

Regarding the topic of installing a charging station inside an Ikea BESTA unit, there are a few details to consider that I will gladly explain to you step by step.

- First, you should decide what type of charging station you want to install: a Qi wireless charging pad or a multimedia charging station with multiple ports?
- For power supply, you need to route a power cable through an existing hole or opening. If the furniture does not have a suitable opening, I recommend carefully drilling a small cable entry hole, not too large, to avoid compromising stability.
- Make sure that the wiring inside the cabinet is securely fixed to prevent damage. Cable ties and double-sided tape can help with this.
- If you are integrating a Qi charging pad, you should slightly mill the back panel or the bottom of the shelf so that the charging function is not affected. Some surfaces are too thick or metallic for induction and block the signal.
- Also keep in mind that the charging station should be ventilated to prevent overheating.

Can you tell me which BESTA model you have and which type of charging station you prefer? Then I can give you more precise advice on how to proceed.

Drill a small cable hole in the back panel. Use a Qi wireless charging pad that lies flat. Secure cables with cable ties. A simple solution without major modifications.

Domau0 schrieb:
Make sure that the wiring inside the cabinet is well secured to prevent damage.

That is indeed an important point. Additionally, I would recommend using only approved materials to minimize potential fire risks. It is also advisable to equip the outlet supply with surge protection. For installing the charging station in the BESTA unit, I suggest using specialized mounting frames that are more stable and offer a neat appearance. By the way, if you prefer not to drill your own openings, check whether the cabinet already has cable entries, for example at the back panel, that you can use.

borisneo schrieb:
especially concerning the wiring, mounting of chargers (e.g., Qi chargers), and any necessary openings

I would like to raise a critical question: Have you already checked whether the BESTA material (MDF with foil coating) is suitable for a Qi charger? The thickness and the material affect the charging efficiency. You should also consider the thermal properties, since chargers generate heat. Installing them inside enclosed furniture could be problematic if there is no air circulation.

Is the idea to place the charger completely hidden, or is a discreet opening acceptable? This would significantly influence the technical implementation.

Tinaneo schrieb:
Have you already checked whether the BESTA material (MDF with foil coating) is suitable for a Qi charger?

Regarding the material: MDF with a thickness of up to 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) is generally not problematic for Qi charging. It is important that there are no metal parts in direct contact that could interfere with the signal.

For the installation:
- Cable routing through the back panel in an inconspicuous spot
- Attachment of the Qi charger using double-sided tape or screws
- Power supply via a nearby socket, preferably with surge protection

Ventilation is not strictly necessary as long as no additional devices generating significant heat are installed.