ᐅ How can Ikea Pax doors be fitted with magnetic catches?

I am currently considering how to equip my Ikea PAX wardrobe doors with magnetic catches to ensure smooth and secure closing. The standard doors either have no catches or only the usual rotary catches, which can sometimes be a bit noisy or stiff. I am particularly interested in which types of magnetic catches work best, the best way to install them, and whether specific drilling or positioning on the doors or inside the cabinet frame needs to be taken into account. It would also be helpful to know if there are recommended kits suitable for the often quite heavy doors of the PAX system, or if using simple magnets from a hardware store is sufficient. Does anyone have practical experience or specific advice on how to install magnetic catches on Ikea PAX doors?

That’s a very good question you’re raising. Some time ago, I installed magnetic catches on my own PAX doors and can share some practical details. Basically, there are two proven options: First, the classic recessed magnetic catches, where the magnet is embedded in the cabinet frame and the strike plate (usually metal) is recessed into the door. Second, surface-mounted magnets that are attached externally, which also offer an advantage for retrofitting without large drill holes.

With PAX doors, it’s important to note they are often quite heavy and large, so stronger neodymium magnets generally hold better than standard ferrite magnets from hardware stores. I used magnets with an estimated holding force of about 5–7 kg (11–15 lbs). When recessing them, very precise measurements and millimeter-accurate drilling are necessary to ensure perfect alignment and to avoid warping or the door rubbing.

I recommend the following steps:
- First, measure the door and cabinet frame carefully and choose the magnet position so it does not interfere with the mechanism later.
- Drill a hole with a suitable Forstner bit (for example, 20 mm (0.8 inches)) in the right spot.
- Insert and fix the magnet, then attach the strike plate in the door.
- Adjust if the catch doesn’t close firmly.

One drawback of recessed magnets is that they slightly alter the appearance of the door. If you want to avoid that, surface-mounted options are an alternative, but there is a risk that the magnet or plate might loosen over time if the screws are not secured properly.

Have you already considered which type of magnet you want to buy, or should I provide some specific sourcing options?

As an addition, I would like to point out that when retrofitting magnetic catches on Ikea PAX doors, it is important to consider the type of door installed (e.g., hinged, sliding, or folding doors) because the suitability of magnetic catches varies significantly. Hinged and folding doors can be easily fitted with recessed magnets, whereas for sliding doors, the magnetic strength and mounting position need careful planning since the doors do not close flush but slide over each other.

It is also important to pay attention to the door thickness and the material used. MDF, particleboard, or foil-coated surfaces react differently to drilling and glued-on components. Therefore, magnets with sturdy fastenings should be chosen—self-adhesive options are only conditionally recommended.

If I may offer recommendations, I suggest neodymium magnet sets specifically designed for furniture doors. These usually feature a powder coating to prevent rust and come with matching strike plates. The installation is typically as follows:

- Recess or screw the magnet into the cabinet body
- Position the strike plate on the inside of the door
- Use a drilling template or precise measurements for correct alignment

Practical installation tips: For Ikea PAX, it is advisable to mark the position on the door frame with masking tape before final fastening to avoid positioning errors. The magnetic force should be strong enough to hold the door securely but not so strong that opening becomes difficult.

minan schrieb:
When installing, measurements must be very precise and the drill holes made with millimeter accuracy to ensure optimal alignment and to prevent warping or the door from hitting the frame.

Here, I would critically point out that drilling a hole in an inexpensive furniture door can indeed pose a risk to both stability and appearance. Especially with PAX doors, which are often made with thinner materials and foil coatings, an imprecise or too deep drilling cut can cause splintering or unsightly damage.

letar schrieb:
That’s exactly right. But aren’t there magnetic locking systems that don’t require drilling at all? For example, those with suitable brackets that hook into the elongated slots or other existing fittings to secure the PAX doors magnetically?

I also have a fundamental question about whether using magnetic catches on heavy doors is really practical, or if it might be better to rely on mechanical locking systems. From your perspective, what are the advantages and disadvantages of magnetic catches specifically regarding long-term use and durability with Ikea PAX?

Danial schrieb:
Are there not also magnetic locking systems that don’t require drilling? For example, ones with appropriate brackets that hook into the elongated rails or other existing fixtures to secure the PAX doors magnetically?

Yes, such solutions do exist occasionally – however, they are usually designed for specific doors or particular mounting systems and are not universally available for all PAX door types. Ikea itself rarely offers magnetic catches for PAX as accessories, which limits the options.

Danial schrieb:
whether using magnetic catches on heavy doors is really practical, or if mechanical locking systems might be a better choice.

From my practical experience: With heavy, large doors, there are actually two challenges:

- The magnet must have a strong holding force (5–10 kg), otherwise the door won’t stay securely closed
- The installation must be very precise so the positioning is not off, otherwise the door will “rattle”

Mechanical systems like push-to-open or traditional rotary latches are often more durable. Still, magnetic catches have the advantage of operating silently, which is the main reason some opt for retrofitting. When it comes to durability and resistance to wear, mechanical locks definitely have advantages in terms of lifespan and maintenance.

So in summary: Magnetic catches are a good compromise if you value soft closing and are willing to install carefully. For heavier use, mechanical alternatives should also be considered.