ᐅ Do the shelves in the older KALLAX units yellow more quickly than those in the newer ones?

Hello everyone,

I recently noticed that the shelves of my older KALLAX unit from IKEA yellow much faster than the newer KALLAX models I currently see in stores as replacements. I’m curious whether this is a general issue or if I just happened to get a defective product.

I’m asking because I have often read similar observations in various forums, especially about models produced several years ago – although I am less clear whether this is due to the MDF board used, the coating, or another material component.

It would be interesting to hear if anyone can share from personal experience whether the material composition and surface treatment of the older KALLAX shelves actually cause faster yellowing, or if the cause is more related to environmental factors (light exposure, humidity).

I would appreciate any insights, including technical explanations.

Farsin schrieb:
whether the material composition and surface treatment of the older KALLAX shelves actually cause them to yellow faster

It is quite possible that older KALLAX models yellow faster, mainly due to the older synthetic resin coating. In newer versions, IKEA has used UV-stabilized finishes that reduce this effect.

Additionally, factors such as UV light exposure and air quality can accelerate the process, but the material itself has indeed evolved. Comparing manufacturing dates could help to better assess this.

anken schrieb:
Newer versions at IKEA use UV-stabilized finishes that minimize this effect

That sounds quite plausible! Maybe your old KALLAX was simply placed too close to the window and was basically getting "sun-kissed" every day. ;-)

Of course, nobody wants that, but this happens to our furniture from time to time. All the more reason to consider replacing it now and then or to give the next one a bit more shade. 🙂

The yellowing of wood-based panels such as MDF, used for KALLAX shelves, mainly depends on UV exposure, the quality of the coating, and the material composition. Older KALLAX models often use different resin systems that are less resistant to UV light.

Newer models contain improved synthetic resins with UV stabilizers, which slow down the yellowing process. Objectively, this effect can be explained by technological advances in material engineering.

A detailed analysis of production batches or manufacturing years could provide concrete evidence of the differences.

For additional information:

Yellowing is often caused by a combination of chemical aging and environmental factors. In particular, fibers and adhesives in MDF boards react with oxygen in light and air, which promotes discoloration.

Here is a brief overview:

1. Material: Older MDF types may contain more lignin, which contributes to yellowing.
2. Coating: UV protection in older coatings was often weaker or absent.
3. Usage: Proximity to windows or direct sunlight accelerates the process.

My tip: Even if the shelf still looks good, you can prevent yellowing by applying UV-resistant films to window frames or moving the shelf to a location with less daylight.

SauDietmar schrieb:
UV protection in older paints was often weaker or sometimes not present at all

Exactly, that is crucial. Newer formulations are often more resistant to yellowing because the paints have been improved. If an old shelf is heavily yellowed, usually the only solution is replacement or refurbishment.