ᐅ Can I use Ikea BESTA as a workbench in my DIY room, and if so, how?

PIN66 schrieb:
What are the dimensions of the BESTA units you have?

The basic modules are 60 cm (24 inches) wide, 40 cm (16 inches) deep, and 64 cm (25 inches) high each. I would place two base cabinets side by side, so that makes about 120 cm (47 inches) in length. I still need to adjust the working height considering the countertop thickness, but around 90 cm (35 inches) would be ideal for me.

Are there any tips on how to best adjust the height of the BESTA units without compromising stability? I was thinking about adjustable furniture legs or an additional subframe.

Horstbau schrieb:
Are there any tricks to best adjust the height with the Bestas without compromising stability?

Yes, here are a few suggestions:

- Adjustable furniture feet can work, but make sure they are sturdy and capable of evenly supporting the load.

- Alternatively, you can use a stable substructure made of timber beams or steel profiles to support the Besta cabinets. This can also be adjusted to your desired working height and adds extra stability.

- It is important that the workbench remains level and firmly positioned after adjusting the height, so the surface stays flat and does not wobble.

- You can also increase the height by using a thicker worktop, which simultaneously enhances robustness. Multiplex or beech boards with a thickness of 30mm (1¼ inches) are a good choice.

A small tip: A friend of mine placed the Besta cabinets on a frame and secured the worktop from below with threaded rods – it’s very sturdy but still removable.

What kind of worktop do you have in mind?

FABIAN_DEO schrieb:
What kind of worktop did you have in mind?

Thanks, Fabian, those are great tips!

I was thinking of a plywood board, 27 to 30 mm (about 1 to 1.2 inches) thick, possibly beech plywood because of the look and hardness.

I like it to be sturdy and attractive at the same time, the wood appearance should fit well. I would start with an untreated surface and then maybe treat it with hard wax oil or something similar to make it more resistant to dirt and scratches.

What do you think about using hard wax oil on the workbench? Or would it be better to sand it smooth with fine sandpaper and leave the board untreated?

Hard wax oil is very suitable; it protects the surface from moisture and dirt while remaining relatively natural and tactile. In its raw state, the board is less durable, especially against stains and wetness.

Horstbau schrieb:
I was thinking of a multiplex board, 27 to 30 mm thick (about 1 to 1¼ inches), possibly beech multiplex for the look and hardness.

Beech is excellent! 👍 I can also highly recommend hard wax oil. It makes the surface easy to maintain without losing the natural feel. And if you ever have to work with large screws or routing, you can add an extra work backing (for example, swapping in an MDF board) to the right side of the main board, so any damage won’t affect the entire surface.

Great project, good luck!

Let me add a bit of atmosphere: Using the Ikea BESTA as a workbench is something of a hidden gem if you want a flexible, attractive space that doesn’t feel like a cold workshop. I like the combination of homely furniture with a sturdy wooden top.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable with your workbench project! If the BESTA units suit your style, the stability is sufficient, and you take care of the surface, it’s a great and above all customizable solution.

Get yourself some strong brackets or extra screws, and it will work perfectly. And don’t worry – the mix is what makes it! 😉