ᐅ Is it possible to equip the Ikea BRIMNES with special leg pieces?

Hello everyone,

I have a rather specific question regarding the popular IKEA Brimnes bed frame. I’m planning to upgrade my BRIMNES bed both visually and functionally by fitting it with special feet – I’m particularly undecided between elegant wooden feet or higher-quality metal feet, aiming to make the storage space under the bed more accessible while also giving it a slightly more modern look.

My specific question is: Is it possible to replace the original feet of the IKEA BRIMNES completely with other stable and suitable feet? It is important to me that the new feet fit both in height and attachment method, without compromising stability or voiding the warranty.

Has anyone had experience with these kinds of modifications? Are there any limitations to be aware of, or perhaps specific recommendations on which types of feet work well? For example, how is the load-bearing capacity affected if taller feet are installed to create more storage space under the bed?

I appreciate any tips as well as technical details to consider!

Thanks in advance!

ke_ren schrieb:
Is it possible to equip the IKEA BRIMNES with special feet, meaning to completely replace the original feet with other stable and suitable ones? It’s important to me that the feet fit both in height and attachment without compromising stability or voiding the warranty.

This topic is technically quite interesting. The BRIMNES bed actually uses standardized connectors for the feet, specifically the classic screw threads in the designated sockets on the side rails. Here are a few details you should know:

- The original feet are about 7 cm (3 inches) high and have an M8 thread (slight variations depending on the model).
- The bed frame carries the load through a frame construction, so load distribution must be ensured with different feet.
- If you want to use higher feet, you should pay attention to stability, especially lateral stability (wider feet or those with a base plate).
- Assembly is usually done with screws, but thread depths are limited. Longer threads or adapters might help but also increase the risk of wobbling.

Technically, the replacement is possible if you:

- Exactly compare the thread sizes.
- Choose new feet with appropriate material thickness and load capacity.

Warranty losses due to changing the feet are common with IKEA if the modification causes damage. Keep that in mind.

I recommend checking the feet and threads in person at the store or with the accessory manufacturer. If the original feet are deliberately removed completely, a thorough inspection of the mounting is always necessary.

Specific recommendations: Many people use wooden blocks or furniture feet with M8 threads, which can be purchased separately. These come in various heights up to 15 cm (6 inches) and often include base plates for extra stability.

If you want, I can still look up the exact mounting positions from the assembly drawings for you.

The feet on the BRIMNES can be replaced as long as the new ones have the same thread sizes and attachment points. It is important that the feet are stable and do not wobble.

Wooden feet with M8 threads from third-party suppliers work well, as do metal feet, but safety should be ensured.

ke_ren schrieb:
I am planning to visually and functionally upgrade my BRIMNES bed by fitting it with special feet – in particular, I’m torn between elegant wooden legs or higher-quality metal legs to make better use of the storage space under the bed and at the same time give it a more modern look.

Hello ke_ren,

to offer a bit of guidance, here are some systematic points to consider:

1. Check thread types: Original BRIMNES legs usually use a standard M8 furniture thread, which is important since the new legs need to fit accordingly.

2. Leg height: The standard is about 7 cm (3 inches). If you want more storage space, you can go for 10–15 cm (4–6 inches). But keep in mind that increasing the height also increases the load on the fastenings.

3. Material and stability: Wooden legs often look nicer and add a warm touch, but cheaper options can quickly splinter or warp. Metal legs are more durable, but the weight distribution differs.

4. Installation: Screws must be long enough to ensure a secure hold. The bed’s wooden panel must not be damaged.

5. Additional tips: To avoid wobbling, you can use a washer or spacer between the leg and the frame.

I personally upgraded my BRIMNES with 12 cm (5 inches) metal legs from a furniture accessory supplier. It was important to extend the screws by at least 25–30 mm (1–1.2 inches) and check all fastenings again after installation.

Conclusion: Yes, it’s possible and works well if you carefully choose the thread, material, and installation.

kibutar schrieb:
The bed frame supports the load through a frame structure; accordingly, the load distribution should be maintained when using different legs.

Hey ke_ren,

I think it’s great that you want to upgrade your BRIMNES bed! 😄 As kibutar mentioned, you shouldn’t underestimate the structural stability. However, if the new legs are sturdy and securely attached, it shouldn’t be a problem.

I once fitted my BRIMNES with vintage wooden legs about 12 cm (5 inches) high. The extra storage space underneath the bed was especially practical.

Here’s a small tip: use the appropriate thread-locking adhesive when screwing in the legs to prevent wobbling later on.

And don’t worry about the warranty: as long as you work carefully and don’t cause any damage, it’s usually not an issue.

Make the bed your own little design highlight! 😉

ke_ren schrieb:
Are there any limitations to consider, or perhaps specific recommendations on which types of bed legs work well? For example, how is the load-bearing capacity affected when using taller legs to create more storage space under the bed?

Hello ke_ren,

your question really hits the mark for me, as I’ve also been thinking about upgrading the BRIMNES. I completely understand that finding the right balance between functionality and aesthetics is important to you.

I’ve done some experimenting myself and found that stability tends to decrease with legs over 12 cm (5 inches) in height, so it’s crucial to pay attention to the material used.

For me, this means it’s better to choose legs around 10 cm (4 inches) rather than 15 cm (6 inches) tall, and opt for a sturdy metal or wood solution with wide base plates.

I know this might sound a bit cautious, but if you use the bed every day, stability is more important than maximizing the height. I hope this is helpful.