ᐅ Can I use Ikea PAX as a room divider, and how do I secure it?

Hello everyone, I am considering using the Ikea PAX wardrobe as a room divider in my living room. Specifically, I would like to know how stable it is, especially if the PAX is not placed directly against a wall. Are there special ways to securely fix the wardrobe to prevent it from tipping or wobbling? Also, is it better to connect several PAX units together, or is a single freestanding unit sufficient? I am also open to suggestions for securing it to the floor or ceiling if that makes sense. Thanks in advance for your experiences and tips!

Yes, you can use PAX units as a room divider. It is important to connect the units to each other to ensure stability. Use the supplied connecting fittings and, if possible, secure the modules to the wall as well.

Hello sanpe, overall the PAX system is well suited for dividing rooms. Since the units are designed for wall mounting, there are a few important points to consider:

- Connect multiple cabinets together using the included dowels and screws. This greatly increases stability.
- If the back panel can be firmly attached to the wall, use the supplied corner brackets.
- Using it as a room divider without contact to the wall is more challenging. In this case, I recommend additional securing to the floor with screws and brackets, provided the floor allows it.
- Securing it to the ceiling can also help, but this is more complex and needs thorough planning.
By following these steps, you can prevent tipping and safely use the PAX as a room divider.

GLAEL schrieb:
Use the supplied connection fittings and, if possible, additionally secure the modules to the wall.

Exactly. If you don’t have a wall, connect the modules to each other and check for any wobbling. You might need to use an additional floor bracket.

Matthewt48 schrieb:
- When used as a room divider without contact to a wall, it becomes more problematic. Here, I recommend additional fastening to the floor with screws and brackets, provided the floor allows it.

Thank you for the advice! Could you please explain specifically how to implement this floor fastening? Are specific types of brackets or screws recommended? I want to secure the cabinet as discreetly as possible without causing excessive damage to the floor.

sanpe schrieb:
Thanks for the tip! Could you explain specifically how to fix this to the floor?

Sure! You’ll need sturdy brackets that you screw onto the bottom edge of the PAX wardrobe. Then, fasten the brackets to the floor, for example using 5mm (0.2 inch) plugs if the floor is solid (concrete, wood). I recommend galvanized metal brackets (at least 4x4 cm (1.5x1.5 inches)) and suitable wood screws. Make sure the brackets don’t stick out too far to keep them as discreet as possible.

If the floor can’t be drilled, you could alternatively use heavy furniture stoppers or anti-slip pads. While these don’t provide as strong a fix, they at least help reduce the risk of tipping.