ᐅ Can Ikea Pax wardrobes be expanded with custom shelves?

Created on: 26 Aug 2023 09:37
R
Ronin
Hello everyone,

I am planning to expand my Ikea PAX wardrobe system with additional shelves. I am particularly interested in whether it is technically feasible and stable to use shelves from sources other than Ikea, such as custom-made or more affordable DIY options. What has been your experience? Do these fit well into the rail systems, and how do they perform in terms of durability, the hanging mechanism, and appearance? Is it really practical to expand the wardrobe this way, or is it better to stick with the original shelves?

I would appreciate detailed experiences or good advice on combining Ikea PAX with custom shelves.
R
Ronin
27 Aug 2023 12:56
usbla schrieb:
The board mounting must be compatible with the PAX hanging rails; usually, special drill holes or brackets are required.

This is an important note. Are there specific measurements for the drill holes (diameter, positions) from the Ikea PAX system that can be transferred to external boards? I have only seen the original measurements from Ikea but cannot find any official details. I would like to try preparing my own boards precisely, but it is difficult without exact dimensions.

Does anyone here have a drawing or measured data that would be helpful for preparation?
U
usbla
27 Aug 2023 14:21
Ronin schrieb:
Are there specific drilling measurements (diameter, positions) from the Ikea PAX system that can be applied to external boards?

Yes, the PAX system uses a standardized drilling pattern with 32 mm spacing, which is common in the furniture industry. The hanger holes typically have a diameter of about 5 mm (0.2 inches), though this can vary depending on the fitting. The drilling position is usually 37 mm (1.5 inches) from the back edge of the shelves and follows the 32 mm (1.25 inches) vertical spacing.

For the hanging rails or brackets, it is recommended to first mount them on a sample board and measure the exact positions. Ikea does not provide official technical drawings for these details, but precise measurements can be taken using calipers.
L
Leote
27 Aug 2023 16:38
The 32 mm (1.26 inch) grid is correct. Just use a Bosch hole template tool; it helps with the drilling distances. You will need to adjust the rest precisely. Good luck!
K
Kinbu
28 Aug 2023 09:04
I also support the idea of using custom shelves if the measurements are precise. Additionally, I would recommend adding a slim edge protector to the shelves to prevent swelling or damage.

Furthermore:
- The height of the shelf supports must be identical
- The shelves should not be too thin, otherwise they may bend

This way, I ensure that the homemade shelves last a long time and look good.
T
Trate47
28 Aug 2023 10:17
Kinbu schrieb:
The shelves shouldn’t be too thin, or they might bend

Absolutely right! If you use boards that are too thin, you’ll end up with unwanted sagging. A bit thicker is definitely better—this way your cabinet will be much more stable! 😉