ᐅ Do felt pads provide long-term protection for the Kallax shelving unit, or is additional support necessary?

Created on: 7 Mar 2024 08:42
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nathanie55
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nathanie55
7 Mar 2024 08:42
Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into whether felt pads on the shelves of IKEA Kallax units are sufficient in the long term to effectively prevent scratches and damage, or if additional protective measures or maintenance should definitely be considered.

My specific question is: Do felt pads provide enough support for the Kallax unit over time so that you don’t have to worry about the surface or the shelf structure? Or is it advisable to use extra rubber or plastic mats, for example, to enhance protection?

If anyone has experience with the durability and protective qualities of felt pads—especially on frequently used Kallax shelving—I would really appreciate detailed information. Thanks in advance!
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kasan
7 Mar 2024 09:17
First of all, the basic assumption: felt pads naturally provide some cushioning and prevent minor scratches when moving the shelf.

However, whether they are truly sufficient in the long term strongly depends on the weight, flooring type, and frequency of use.

[quote=nathanie55, post: k5g9p0, member: XXX]Do felt pads provide sufficient long-term support for the Kallax shelf?[quote]

The answer is generally no, especially if the shelf is moved frequently or placed on very rough flooring.

Moreover, felt pads wear down over time – this increases the risk that small dirt particles will get through and cause scratches, or that the shelf will rest directly on the floor.

My recommendation: felt pads are a good first step, but regular inspection and, if necessary, additional protective measures make sense.
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peovin
7 Mar 2024 09:59
Felt pads are suitable for light protection. However, if the shelf is frequently moved or placed on an uneven floor, it is better to use rubber pads.
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KAULIS
7 Mar 2024 11:03
Felt pads can protect the surface of Kallax shelves from scratches and wear in the short term, but they show significant signs of wear after several months to years.

Studies and user reports confirm that felt material wears out faster due to friction and moisture compared to rubber or plastic.

The type of floor should also be taken into account: on hard, rough floors, felt pads are not fully effective.

A combination of felt and an additional rubber pad or regular inspection is therefore advisable to ensure the long-term durability of the furniture.
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Kinbu
7 Mar 2024 11:35
I can say from personal experience: felt pads are great for protecting shelves from minor scratches, especially when they remain mostly in one place.

However, if the shelf is moved frequently or if heavy items are stored on it, the pads wear out faster. I then added self-adhesive rubber pads, which improved protection and also stability.

Tip: Make sure to replace the felt pads regularly as soon as they show signs of wear to keep the surface intact for longer.
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GALEO4
7 Mar 2024 12:43
I find it somewhat surprising how many people present felt pads as a kind of cure-all solution.

[quote=kasan, post: k0z1j1, member: XXX]Felt pads are a good first step, but regular monitoring and additional protective measures when needed make sense.[quote]

Exactly. Anyone who thinks you can just stick felt pads on and that’s it is underestimating wear and tear and the stresses involved. Often, felt pads themselves are the cause of uneven worn spots when they no longer grip properly and dirt gets trapped underneath them.

My conclusion: If you really want to protect your Kallax over the long term, you shouldn’t rely on felt pads alone.