ᐅ KALLAX doors bump into each other – how can this be avoided?

Hello everyone,

I installed the doors on my KALLAX shelf, but unfortunately, they keep rubbing against each other when I try to close them. The doors don’t close flush; instead, their edges touch, causing friction when several doors are next to each other.

I’m wondering if there is a proven method to avoid this issue without having to remove the doors or hinges? Are there adjustments on the hinges that can help align the doors better to prevent them from hitting each other?

I couldn’t find detailed instructions about this in the manual and am hoping for your experiences. Thanks in advance!

Jareo schrieb:
The doors always hit each other when I try to close them

This issue commonly occurs with shelving units that have multiple doors next to each other when the alignment is not precise.

Have you already checked if the door hinges are adjustable? Many KALLAX models use concealed hinges that can be adjusted in depth, height, and width.

I would suggest systematically checking all three dimensions: if the door sits too far inward, it can rub against the adjacent door; if it is mounted too high or too low, the edges will be misaligned. It is also important that the shelf unit itself is level, as even a slight tilt can worsen the problem.

Additionally, the material might have slight tolerances — how are you managing that? Have you tried measuring the door gaps with calipers or a measuring tape?

Generally, it helps to slightly loosen the hinges, adjust the door to the optimal position, and then tighten them again.

blaix schrieb:
Many KALLAX models use cup hinges that can be adjusted in depth, height, and width

That is correct.

From a technical perspective, the standard doors of the KALLAX shelving unit are designed to be smoothly adjustable with the matching hinges. However, the play and adjustment range specified by IKEA is limited: only a few millimeters adjustments are possible to ensure easy installation and cost-effective manufacturing.

To prevent doors from hitting each other, I recommend the following steps:

1. Check the correct alignment and level position of the cabinet frame.
2. Adjust the hinges individually, starting with the lateral tilt, then depth, and finally height.
3. Make sure the gaps between the doors are at least 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches).
4. If this is not sufficient, sanding the edges can be a last resort, although this might void the warranty.

In case of recurring problems, using additional small spacers to slightly separate the doors may be an option.

Hello Jareo,

your question is indeed very relevant, as many users of KALLAX shelves with doors face similar issues. I’m happy to provide a detailed guide:

First of all, KALLAX doors are generally adjustable. The hinges can be adjusted in three directions: vertically, horizontally, and in depth. This allows small misalignments to be corrected.

If the doors are hitting each other, it may be because your adjustment is not yet optimal. I recommend the following steps:

- Use a spirit level first to check if the shelf is truly level and stable. Even a slight tilt can cause the doors to not close smoothly.

- Loosen the hinge screws slightly and move the doors in all three dimensions until there is an even gap between the doors.

- To check, you can use a thin sheet of paper: when sliding it between the doors, it should fit snugly but not be crushed.

- Tighten the hinge screws again once the settings are correct.

- If necessary, repeat this process for each door, as adjacent doors often require different adjustments.

Please keep in mind that on some KALLAX models, the doors tend to warp slightly, which can also cause them to hit each other.

For a permanently smooth result, you might also consider installing magnetic catches to prevent doors from colliding due to spring tension.

I hope this helps! If you want, I can also provide details about the individual adjustment screws.

Brian schrieb:
However, if the doors are hitting each other, it might be because your adjustment is not yet optimal

That sums it up well.

I would like to add that some users tend to tighten the screws too quickly in an attempt to apply “more pressure” on the doors. This can be counterproductive.

Sergio49 schrieb:
The gap between the doors should be at least 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches)

Exactly, this minimal gap is a technical requirement. In some KALLAX units, the doors may vary slightly in thickness due to manufacturing tolerances, which can cause them to hit each other.

My tip: Make adjustments in small increments and document your changes. This way, you can better understand how each adjustment affects the result.

One more point: If you apply rubber buffers or felt strips to the door edges, you can reduce the noise from the doors hitting without affecting their function.