ᐅ Billy Regal doors with magnets – how do I replace them?

Hello everyone, I have a Billy shelf with doors that close magnetically. Now, the mounting of the magnetic strip on one door has broken, so the door no longer closes properly. My question is: What is the best and most professional way to replace the magnets on the Billy shelf doors? Are there any special tricks or tools that should definitely be used? I have some DIY experience but still want to avoid causing any damage. Thanks for your tips!

Hello Doganja50! Your issue is quite common with Billy shelves. The magnets are usually secured in small holders that can be gently pried out – avoid using brute force to prevent scratches or damage 😉

I recommend placing the doors on a sturdy table and carefully levering the magnetic strip with a small flat-head screwdriver. Replacement magnetic strips are available at IKEA and can usually be slid in easily for a quick fix!

Good luck, you’ll manage it! 🙂

Carefully pry the magnetic strip out using a flat-head screwdriver, then snap or slide the new one in. No special tools are required.

First, it is important to clarify the exact construction type of the magnetic strip, as there are different versions for Billy doors. Most magnetic catches are either glued into a plastic strip or inserted into a groove.

My tip: start by removing the door completely by taking it off the hinges. This allows for cleaner work and better grip.

Then, carefully pry the magnetic strip out of the door groove using a thin, flat tool such as a putty knife or a flat-head screwdriver. Be very gentle here to avoid damaging the thin veneer.

If you need to reorder the magnetic strip, pay close attention to the exact dimensions and whether the magnets are glued or secured in place. Sometimes the magnets are individual pieces, so only the defective one can be replaced, which can be quite fiddly.

One more note: if the strip is glued, some solvent (e.g., denatured alcohol) can help dissolve the adhesive—please use it cautiously to avoid damaging the surface.

What does your situation look like exactly? Have you already removed the door, and what kind of magnetic strip is installed?

PLOMA schrieb:
First, it’s important to clarify the exact construction of the magnetic strip,

Thank you for the detailed description! I haven’t removed the door yet; I will try that tomorrow. The magnetic strip seems to be inserted rather than glued firmly. The magnets are under a thin plastic cover that looks like a rail fitting into a groove in the door panel.

Can I really just pull or pry the strip out of the groove by moving it up or down?

If there is a risk of breaking it, would you recommend ordering a completely new one, or are there repair tips available for the strip itself?

Hello Doganja50, magnetic strips are indeed quite delicate, especially when they are fitted into a groove and have aged somewhat. My recommendation:

1. Remove the door: Simply take it off the hinges to have full control.
2. Use a soft plastic spatula or a thin, wide knife to slowly pry the strip out of the groove – always apply pressure gently on the opposite side to distribute the force.
3. If it doesn’t come out easily, apply some heat, for example with a hairdryer, to make the plastic more flexible.

If you’re worried about breaking it, it’s better to buy an original replacement part from IKEA. Often, it’s cheaper and neater than repairing.

I have repaired doors many times myself and avoided glue repairs – they usually don’t last long.