ᐅ Are there any DIY tips for protecting Ikea Hemnes furniture from scratches?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought some furniture from the Ikea Hemnes series and I’m a bit concerned about possible scratches that might occur through daily use. The Hemnes furniture often has a painted or oiled surface, which can be easily damaged if not cared for properly.

So my question to you is: Are there any proven DIY tips or simple protective measures to effectively prevent scratches on Ikea Hemnes furniture?

I’m thinking of things like protective coatings, special waxes, felt pads, or maybe even particular varnishes or treatments that can be applied by yourself without affecting the look of the furniture.

Looking forward to your experiences, recommendations, and advice – also happy to hear about common mistakes to avoid!

Best regards

As a first step, I would always recommend placing felt pads where furniture contacts the floor. This greatly reduces scratches.

Additionally, you can use furniture wax for wooden furniture, which protects the surface well from minor scratches and is easy to apply.

denverfe43 schrieb:
I recently bought some furniture from the Ikea Hemnes series and am a bit concerned about possible scratches that might occur with everyday use.

This is a very reasonable concern, as the Hemnes series mostly consists of pine wood with a lacquered or white painted finish, which can be quite sensitive to wear.

My advice for protecting your furniture as best as possible is as follows:

- First, thoroughly clean the furniture before applying any protective treatment. A damp cloth is usually enough to remove dust and dirt.
- Next, I recommend using a water-based furniture wax suitable for lacquered surfaces. Apply it thinly with a soft cloth and gently buff it in.
- For everyday use, felt pads under chairs and table legs help prevent scratches caused by sliding.
- If you prefer something more durable and your furniture is not too white, you might consider a furniture oil stain, but keep in mind this can change the color and should be tested first on a hidden spot.

Be careful not to apply too much product to avoid a sticky surface that attracts dust.

In summary:

- Clean before application
- Use furniture wax specifically for lacquered surfaces
- Felt pads for prevention
- Test wax stains or oils on inconspicuous areas

If your furniture is in a high-traffic area or where children play, a protective film or glass plate might also be worthwhile, although this will affect the appearance.

I hope this helps! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.

LANICOLE schrieb:
If you are looking for something more durable and the piece of furniture isn’t too white, you might also consider a furniture oil glaze

That’s a very good tip. Especially with wooden furniture like Hemnes, which is often painted white, applying a layer that is too thick or unsuitable can quickly make the surface look unattractive.

An alternative I have personally used is a transparent scratch protection film that can be applied to sensitive areas. It is a bit costly but hardly visible and provides effective protection.

Also important: avoid harsh cleaning agents or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the surface over time. Simply using a slightly damp microfiber cloth works best.

One more small tip: for moving parts like drawer runners, you can stick thin foam strips under the edges as shock absorbers. This reduces stress on the surface at the edges.

Overall: regular maintenance and targeted prevention help avoid many scratches on popular Hemnes furniture.