ᐅ How can I customize Ikea Brimnes furniture for a children's room?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to furnish my two children’s bedroom with Ikea Brimnes furniture, but I would like to customize the pieces so that they remain functional while also looking child-friendly and unique. My main questions are: What are the possibilities for adapting Brimnes furniture such as wardrobes, dressers, or beds to be safe and suitable for children? Which materials are best for surface treatments to ensure durability and safety? Also, does anyone have experience with cleverly modifying storage space or creating additional accessories to practically expand the children’s room? I would appreciate detailed tips, including recommendations for tools and techniques that have proven effective.

Hello DALERI61,

to modify Brimnes furniture for the children’s room, I recommend prioritizing safety first. Many Brimnes components are made of coated particleboard, so sanding and repainting are definitely possible, but you should use non-toxic, water-based paints that are safe for children.

- Surfaces: Make sure to sand the surface well before painting and possibly apply a primer. Acrylic or chalk paints work well for this.
- Replace handles: You can swap the handles for child-friendly, rounded models to prevent injuries.
- Increase storage: Inside, you can organize with custom-cut dividers or boxes. IKEA also offers suitable inserts.
- Safety: Use wall anchors to secure the furniture and prevent tipping.

In terms of tools, fine sandpaper, brushes, a screwdriver, and possibly a drill are sufficient. You can find detailed instructions on various DIY blogs, but your question is perfectly suited here for practical hands-on tips.

DALERI61 schrieb:
Which materials are suitable for surface treatments to ensure they are durable and safe?

Hello,

regarding your question about materials for surface treatment: I recommend non-toxic, water-based paints that are certified specifically for children's furniture. Chalk paints are a great option because they have a matte finish and are easy to work with. After painting, you should seal the furniture with a clear, water-based acrylic varnish to make the surface resistant to scratches and moisture.

Another tip: If you want to make the furniture visually appealing, you can use wallpaper scraps, fabrics, or self-adhesive films on certain areas, such as drawer fronts or inside drawers. This gives the furniture a more personalized look and creates a cheerful atmosphere in the children's room.

Always make sure to thoroughly clean the furniture and sand down the old surface before starting, so the new paint adheres well.

Regarding storage: The Brimnes dresser and wardrobe can be easily expanded with inserts or pull-out boxes, which you can also customize with labels or decorations. This helps children organize their belongings.

If you like, I can write you a small step-by-step guide for one of the modifications.

Replace handles, use water-based paint, add drawer inserts inside, secure furniture with wall fasteners.

KAMERON schrieb:
Many of the Brimnes parts are made from coated particleboard, so sanding and repainting is definitely possible, but you should use non-toxic, water-based paints

That’s true, and I would add: if you’re working with children, make the painting session a little event. This way, customizing becomes twice as fun, and the kids feel responsible for their own room.

You can also add small, practical details—for example, small magnets on the inside of doors to hold drawings or notes, or colorful outlet covers that match the furniture.

I especially like it when furniture is personalized with a few personal touches like name tags or handmade pictures—that helps create a connection with the space.

Just a quick tip: make sure all modifications are secure—avoid loose small parts, especially around young children.