ᐅ KALLAX used as a plant shelf is damp – are there alternatives?
Created on: 21 Jan 2022 09:13
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okyanusnar
Hello everyone,
I repurposed my KALLAX shelf from IKEA as a plant shelf because I found the modular design ideal. Unfortunately, I now have the problem that the shelf becomes quite damp, especially in the lower compartments, probably due to watering and evaporation. Some of the panels seem to be swelling, which I attribute to the moisture.
My question to you: Are there any good moisture-resistant or better-suited alternatives to KALLAX that are specifically suitable for use as a plant shelf? It is important that the material is less prone to water damage while still offering a similar size and structure.
I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!
I repurposed my KALLAX shelf from IKEA as a plant shelf because I found the modular design ideal. Unfortunately, I now have the problem that the shelf becomes quite damp, especially in the lower compartments, probably due to watering and evaporation. Some of the panels seem to be swelling, which I attribute to the moisture.
My question to you: Are there any good moisture-resistant or better-suited alternatives to KALLAX that are specifically suitable for use as a plant shelf? It is important that the material is less prone to water damage while still offering a similar size and structure.
I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!
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praWarre6921 Jan 2022 13:21Hey, I know that problem all too well! My advice: look for metal shelves with wood or glass shelves – this way you get the best of both worlds. Metal resists moisture, while the wood surfaces still look warm. Also, a small zinc tray underneath the plants works great to catch dripping water 😉
And don’t worry, plants just make life happier. So: Keep calm and grow on! 🙂
And don’t worry, plants just make life happier. So: Keep calm and grow on! 🙂
praWarre69 schrieb:
Metal with wood or glass shelves – how to combine the best of both worlds.I’m a bit skeptical: metal shelves can feel uncomfortably warm or cold indoors and tend to look very industrial. And glass shelves? Completely impractical when dealing with soil and water – they require constant cleaning, which is a lot of effort over time.
Why not choose a completely different material instead? I believe the market for sustainable, moisture-resistant materials made from recycled plastic or hardwood with special treatment is underestimated.
You don’t always have to go for the metal block just because it’s durable.
As an alternative to KALLAX for plant shelves, I recommend high-quality shelves made of bamboo or teak wood with water-repellent treatment. These woods are naturally resistant to moisture while maintaining a very attractive appearance.
Regular ventilation and the use of plant saucers are important to prevent direct or prolonged moisture from reaching the shelf.
Shelves made of plywood with appropriate professional sealing also work well if you are looking for something more customized.
Regular ventilation and the use of plant saucers are important to prevent direct or prolonged moisture from reaching the shelf.
Shelves made of plywood with appropriate professional sealing also work well if you are looking for something more customized.
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okyanusnar21 Jan 2022 15:11kogudra schrieb:
Shelves made from bamboo or teak wood with water-resistant treatmentThanks for the tip, I had actually already considered bamboo since it’s more sustainable than regular wood panels.
How does it compare in terms of stability to KALLAX? I’m looking for a modular system that can be rearranged without much effort. Does anyone have bamboo shelves that are flexible and not too heavy?
I’d prefer to avoid another metal system, as it rarely fits well with the living space aesthetically.
okyanusnar schrieb:
Does anyone have bamboo shelves that are flexible and not too heavy?I have bamboo shelves that are surprisingly light and very flexible thanks to modular assembly systems. They are not quite as affordable as KALLAX, though. But they are really good for plants since moisture hardly damages the material.
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chenValeri21 Jan 2022 17:02One more note: Pay close attention to maintenance when considering alternatives. Even moisture-resistant materials require care and regular cleaning, especially if plants shed soil or water splashes.
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