ᐅ All the hinges on the Kallax are squeaking – should I lubricate or replace them?

Hello everyone,

I have the following problem: All the hinges on the doors of my Ikea Kallax shelf have been squeaking quite unpleasantly with every movement for some time now.

My question is: Should I simply lubricate the hinges to stop the squeaking, or is it better to replace them completely due to wear or material fatigue?

I would like to know which approach is more sustainable and economical, especially since the hinges are not very expensive, but I also don’t want to buy new ones unnecessarily if simple lubrication is sufficient.

Does anyone have experience with the durability of Kallax hinges or know the best way to solve this issue? Are there any special lubricants that are better suited than regular WD-40 or similar products?

Thanks in advance for your opinions and tips!

The cause of squeaking in Kallax hinges is usually a dry or dirty bearing area.

It is generally advisable to start with an appropriate lubricant, such as a silicone spray or a special grease for metal bearings. WD-40 can provide short-term relief but is not a long-lasting lubricant.

If the squeaking persists after this, it indicates wear on the hinges, and replacement is recommended. The hinges are usually inexpensive and easy to change.

Lubricating before replacement is the more economical and sustainable first step.

First, apply grease; if that doesn’t help, replace it. Avoid unnecessary work beforehand.

The squeaking often results from friction between metal parts caused by drying out.

My tip: Unscrew the hinge, clean it with a degreaser, and then apply a thin layer of lubricant grease. This allows the grease to penetrate well into the bearing points.

If the noise persists after this treatment, it indicates mechanical wear or damage, and the hinge should be replaced.

RETRAVIS schrieb:

Lubricating before changing is the more economical and sustainable initial measure.

Thanks for the tip. Is there a difference between lubricants? I only have WD-40, but this doesn’t seem to be the best choice.

What makes silicone spray better, and can it be used safely on wood and painted surfaces on the shelf, or should you be careful?

jaypin schrieb:

What makes silicone spray better, and is it safe to use on wood and painted surfaces in shelving, or should one be careful?

Silicone spray is a pure lubricant without aggressive solvents. It also does not leave an oily residue that attracts dirt. This makes it ideal for hinges that are frequently moved.

However, you should be cautious when using it on wood or painted surfaces: silicone spray can sometimes leave glossy marks and may cause stains if applied too generously. It is best to apply it sparingly and immediately wipe off any excess spray.