ᐅ Which tools are recommended for assembling the Ikea Brimnes?

Created on: 21 Jun 2023 08:42
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Isacco5
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Isacco5
21 Jun 2023 08:42
Hello everyone,

I am planning to assemble the Ikea Brimnes bedroom set in the next few days and wanted to ask here in the forum: Which tools do you think are best suited to assemble the Brimnes as efficiently and smoothly as possible?

I am aware that Ikea furniture usually comes with assembly hardware and a small Allen key, but I wonder if it’s worth using better tools like a cordless drill, Phillips screwdriver, or perhaps a rubber mallet to make the job easier and avoid potential damage.

Are there any specific tools you would recommend—perhaps based on your own experience with the individual Brimnes components (wardrobes, beds, drawers, etc.)?

I would appreciate detailed tips, including handling advice or how to tackle tricky parts. Thanks in advance!
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Ethan
21 Jun 2023 09:17
Hello Isacco5,

I can totally understand your question. The Ikea Brimnes set is quite extensive, and while the assembly is fairly straightforward, it definitely makes sense to prepare some tools to make the process easier.

Basically: The included Allen key is sufficient for most screws, but keep in mind that it is very small and not particularly ergonomic. A small, good-quality Allen key set or an Allen bit for a cordless drill can be a great help, making it more comfortable to work for longer and allowing you to tighten the screws properly without damaging the heads.

Recommended tools:
- A cordless drill with an Allen bit (can rotate quickly, which is especially helpful when dealing with many screws)
- A Phillips screwdriver or bit (for smaller screws used in the Brimnes that are not Allen)
- Rubber mallet: Very useful for gently tapping wood pieces together without causing damage, for example when fitting the back panels
- Possibly a spirit level to properly align the furniture at the end

It is important to set the cordless drill to a low speed to avoid overtightening screws or tearing the material. For the drawers, you can also carefully pre-position screws with a small screwdriver if the parts fit very tightly.

If you really want to be gentle with your tools, a small screwdriver with a good grip and sufficient length is also a good idea. I hope this helps you a bit!
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NUPIN
21 Jun 2023 11:05
Ethan schrieb:
Rubber mallet: Very useful for gently tapping wood pieces together without damaging them, for example when fitting the back panels

Absolutely! I just assembled my Brimnes last week, and the rubber mallet was a real lifesaver! 😊

The cordless drill saved a ton of time, especially with all those screws, but make sure to set the torque correctly. The first time I used too much power, and the screws got pushed in too deep!

I also found it really helpful to have a magnetic screwdriver on hand—this way, the small screws didn’t keep falling.

One more tip: A protective covering (like a blanket) helps protect the floor and furniture from scratches during assembly. Have fun building! You’ve got this!
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Ryder35
21 Jun 2023 12:39
Cordless drill with hex key bit, rubber mallet, Phillips screwdriver.
Everything else is optional.
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Gino38
22 Jun 2023 07:44
Additional information:

It is worthwhile to check all included screws and fittings for completeness before starting and to have the supplied Allen wrench on hand. While the Allen wrench provided with all Ikea sets is functional, it can be uncomfortable during longer work periods.

Therefore, I recommend also using a suitable, ergonomic hex key or a corresponding bit attachment for a cordless drill to avoid muscle fatigue and enable more precise work.

Cordless drill: be sure to use a controlled torque setting.

When assembling the drawers, I suggest tightening the screws further by hand with a manual screwdriver to prevent over-tightening.

A rubber mallet is useful for snapping wooden parts together without causing damage.

Additionally, a small pair of pliers can be helpful if a small part gets stuck or if some fine adjustment is needed.

This combination makes the assembly efficient and gentle on the fittings.
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Gloriagl10
22 Jun 2023 10:18
I would especially recommend a good Phillips screwdriver and a cordless drill with low speed.

An Allen key is usually sufficient, but an extension for the bit makes the job easier.

A small rubber mallet helps when fitting the back panels.