ᐅ Are there any specific care instructions for the surface of BILLY shelves?

Are there any specific care tips for the surface of Billy shelves? I have owned several BILLY shelves in the classic white finish for some time now. I have noticed that while the surface seems durable, it also appears quite sensitive to certain cleaning agents and mechanical wear. Therefore, I am interested in any recommendations for cleaning and maintenance—for example, which cleaning products to avoid, the best way to remove dust, or how to treat minor scratches. Are there also any practical experiences on how to keep the surface looking good over the long term? Any advice or guidance would be really helpful, as I want to keep the shelves in optimal condition.

Hello Lomego, thank you for your detailed question; it makes things much clearer for everyone! Basically, the BILLY shelves are made from coated particleboard, usually covered with melamine resin or a similar material. This makes the surface resistant to moisture and everyday use, but not invincible. You don’t necessarily need special cleaners; mild soap solutions or furniture cleaners designed for coated surfaces work best. Avoid harsh solvents such as paint thinner, acetone, or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface or leave streaky, dull marks. It’s best to dust regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth and immediately follow up with a dry cloth to prevent water spots. Minor scratches can sometimes be refreshed with a polish for plastic surfaces, but be cautious: try it first or test in an inconspicuous area! Overall, BILLY shelves are quite low-maintenance if you avoid aggressive products.

Cleaning: Use a damp microfiber cloth. Do not use strong cleaners or abrasive agents. For scratches, wax sticks or furniture polish can be helpful.

I would add that when cleaning, it is crucial to avoid using overly wet cloths. Excess moisture can damage the edges, as these are usually melamine-coated particle boards. It is better to clean more frequently with little water than to use too much moisture at once. I also recommend drying the surface immediately after cleaning to prevent water spots or swelling. For minor scratches, you can try furniture care oil, which nourishes the surface and helps conceal light signs of use. It’s best to test it first on a small corner.

It’s great that you’re already thinking about the proper care! 🙂 I got a BILLY shelf about a year ago and did some research back then. My advice: definitely use gentle cleaners and soft cloths to avoid scratching the surface. I personally liked using a microfiber cloth without any extra cleaning agents the most, as it keeps the white finish crisp and streak-free. Also, I think small stains should be wiped off immediately to minimize surface damage. I hope my tips are helpful!

I agree – a BILLY shelf will stay looking nice much longer if you take good care of it 😉 It’s especially important not to use abrasive sponges or scouring agents, as they can quickly damage the surface. The best way is to simply wipe it with a damp cloth and a little dish soap, then dry it thoroughly. Sometimes I also add a splash of vinegar to the water, which works wonders against limescale stains. If you do this regularly, your shelf will keep its charm! Good luck!