ᐅ Why do the screws in my BILLY shelves keep coming loose?

Hello everyone,

I have a recurring issue with my Billy shelves from IKEA: the screws keep coming loose, sometimes just a few weeks after assembly. This not only makes the shelf unstable but also means I have to tighten the screws regularly. I have already made sure to fasten them firmly and avoid putting excessive weight on the shelf. Still, the problem keeps happening.

Can anyone explain why this might be? Is it due to the type of screws, the material, or am I making a fundamental mistake during assembly? Are there any proven tips to prevent the screws from loosening? I look forward to constructive advice and shared experiences!

Neben50 schrieb:
The screws keep coming loose, sometimes just a few weeks after assembly.

Hey Neben50, that sounds really frustrating – loose screws can definitely test your patience! 🙂

With BILLY shelves, it’s quite common for screws to loosen over time due to slight vibrations (for example, from uneven floors, opening and closing doors, or light loads). Also, the dowels and screws used are often made from relatively soft material, which can expand or shift slightly with extended use.

I recommend applying a small drop of thread-locking adhesive (like Loctite or similar) – this has worked great for me over the years and requires little effort. Also, be careful not to overtighten the screws, as that can damage the material.

If the screws and dowels are already stripped, sometimes a (free) replacement from IKEA is the only solution.

Good luck! 🙂

keelko schrieb:
Screws often loosen due to slight vibrations because the material is soft.

I can definitely relate to that; I’ve experienced it myself. It’s especially frustrating to have to keep reattaching everything. My advice: try placing a rubber strip under the screw head washer to help secure the screws. This often reduces the loss of tension caused by movement.

Also, using thread locker has helped me, but only in small amounts so the screws can still be removed if needed. I’ve also tried relocating the shelf—sometimes vibrations are transferred through floors or nearby furniture.

In addition to the useful tips already shared, here is some technical information:

The issue with BILLY shelves is often that the metal plates securing the screws can loosen slightly over time due to repeated stress, which reduces the holding strength of the screws. Also, the wood can swell when it absorbs moisture, affecting the connection’s mechanism.

When screws regularly come loose, it helps not only to tighten them but also to check the drill holes and dowels. If they are damaged or softened, they should be replaced. Sometimes inserting small wood chips or paper scraps into the hole can help reinforce the thread.

Additionally, it is important not to overtighten the screws during assembly to avoid overstressing the material.

Jaime schrieb:
the metal plates where the screws grip can loosen slightly over time due to repeated stress, which makes the screws hold less firmly.

Thanks for this information, Jaime!

I find this surprising because I don’t really place or move items on the shelves that often. However, the wood and moisture issue could definitely be a factor since the shelf is located in a relatively damp basement room. Maybe that is the main cause.

I will check the screws including the wall plugs and then use some threadlocker.

Are there any recommendations on which product to use? Or is a standard general-purpose product sufficient?

A simple medium-strength threadlocker (e.g., Loctite 243) is completely sufficient.

This allows you to secure the screws while still being able to loosen them later without much effort.