ᐅ Has anyone attached additional baseboards or skirting boards to a KALLAX unit?

Hello everyone,

I have a somewhat specific question for the community here: Has anyone ever attached extra baseboards to the IKEA KALLAX shelving unit?

I am planning to add a decorative and functional baseboard to a KALLAX to visually finish the bottom area and at the same time slightly raise the shelf off the floor. My goal is not only the appearance but also to reduce dust buildup and make cleaning easier.

Since the KALLAX usually sits directly on the floor due to its open design, I would like to know which materials and fastening methods have proven effective. Specific tips on installation, types of baseboards used (e.g., wood, MDF, plastic), as well as experiences regarding durability and stability, are especially appreciated.

Thank you in advance for your feedback!

loduhau schrieb:
Has anyone here ever attached additional baseboards to the IKEA KALLAX shelf?

I have actually added custom baseboards to several KALLAX units. Here are some points from my experience:

1. Material: MDF moldings are easy to work with and paint well, making them a good choice for a clean visual finish.
2. Attachment: I recommend screws with wall plugs if you want a permanent fix. Alternatively, a strong construction adhesive works if you prefer not to drill holes.
3. Dimensions: The baseboard should be 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) high, so it’s not too dominant but still achieves the desired effect.
4. Stability: It’s important that the baseboard aligns flush with the front of the shelf to avoid damage.

Additionally, I suggest priming and painting the baseboard before installation to prevent moisture damage.

If you have questions about the specific process, I’m happy to provide more details.

Siflo schrieb:
MDF moldings are easy to work with and take paint well

I agree with that, but I want to point out that while MDF is affordable and smooth, it can swell if exposed to moisture or heavy stress. This could potentially cause long-term issues, especially with a low-mounted baseboard profile on a KALLAX unit that might get bumped occasionally.

Furthermore, I wonder how necessary an additional molding really is: the KALLAX already sits quite firmly on the floor. Does anyone use these moldings to actually raise the furniture, or purely for aesthetic reasons?

It would be interesting to hear experiences on whether the extra effort truly adds practical value, or if the effect is purely cosmetic.

faso31 schrieb:
Whether the extra effort really adds value or if the effect is purely cosmetic.

This is an important point. Based on my experience with KALLAX shelves in the living room, a well-installed baseboard actually offers both visual and practical benefits:

Visually, the shelf appears more “complete” and looks higher quality—especially if the baseboard is designed to match or contrast in color.

Practically, the baseboard can slightly elevate the shelf, making cleaning underneath easier, particularly when vacuuming or mopping.

Regarding installation, I recommend attaching the baseboard with screws, as glue often doesn’t hold permanently if the furniture is moved. For those wanting to avoid drill holes, strong adhesive mounting tapes are an option, although the hold will be less secure.

In summary: for anyone wanting to enhance the shelf’s appearance or protect the floor, adding a baseboard can definitely be worthwhile.