ᐅ Where can I purchase replacement shelves for the BILLY shelving unit?

Hello everyone,

I am looking for a way to buy individual shelves for my IKEA BILLY bookcase. Specifically, the standard width of 80 cm (31.5 inches) and depth of 28 cm (11 inches). Although I purchased it several years ago, some signs of wear have appeared, and I don’t want to replace the entire bookcase, just add or replace the shelves.

My question is: Where is the best place to order original replacement shelves specifically for the BILLY bookcase? Has anyone had experience with whether IKEA still sells such individual parts, or are there alternative sources, such as third-party suppliers or specialized shops, that offer compatible shelves? I would really appreciate any concrete tips on where to find them and information about the exact fit or quality of replacement shelves. Thanks in advance!

Jaripra schrieb:
My question is: Where is the best place to order original replacement shelves specifically for the BILLY bookcase?

You can check IKEA’s website under “spare parts” online. Sometimes individual shelves are available there. If not, just ask at your nearest IKEA store, as they often can place an order for you on site. Other retailers rarely offer these shelves since BILLY is an IKEA product.

Jaripra schrieb:
I don’t want to replace the entire shelving unit, just add or swap the shelves.

This is a very practical approach since the BILLY shelving unit has been offered for decades in several standard sizes, so spare parts are generally available.

Regarding replacement shelves: IKEA itself has a limited spare parts service, which you can best check through customer service or directly at the store – sometimes they have specially orderable shelves. You won’t always find this information clearly listed online.

When it comes to precise fit, original shelves are always the best option because the hole spacing, material thickness, and finish all match exactly.

Alternatively, specialized online retailers or custom-made shelves from a carpenter are options, but you should pay close attention to exact dimensions, such as 80 cm (31.5 inches) width, 28 cm (11 inches) depth, and 16 mm (0.63 inches) thickness, because the fittings and brackets otherwise might not fit.

So I ask: Have you already asked at the IKEA store, and how old exactly is your shelving unit model? Sometimes minor design adjustments were made over the years that affect compatibility.

I recommend measuring the rows of holes precisely and sharing this information with customer service to avoid confusion. If the part is not available through IKEA’s own spare parts service, carpenter-made shelves from MDF or multi-ply (multiplex) wood can be alternatives – however, these must be cut precisely, including any required veneer or laminate finish.

benonon schrieb:
Have you already asked at the IKEA store, and how old is your shelving unit model exactly?

This is an important point, especially since IKEA has sold different versions of the BILLY bookshelf over the years.

I have personally ordered replacement shelves for BILLY multiple times and recommend measuring the exact product number of the shelf and the dimensions of the existing shelves beforehand. The positions and spacing of the drill holes are particularly crucial for assembly.

If you ask IKEA directly for replacement shelves, they often provide information on availability or alternative solutions. Some IKEA stores also offer spare parts only on-site as a courtesy.

If that doesn’t work, you can sometimes find universal wooden boards from furniture accessories suppliers online that you can cut to size yourself or use laminate coverings to match the typical white or brown color of the BILLY bookshelf.

One last tip: document the model and measurements of your shelf carefully when you mention where you ordered from—this way, the community here can assist you even better.

I hope this helps you already! 🙂