ᐅ How can I best mount Ikea Pax wardrobes on drywall (gypsum board) walls?

Hello everyone, I am facing the task of mounting my Ikea Pax wardrobe to drywall. Since these walls are not as load-bearing as solid walls, I am looking for the best method to ensure a secure and long-lasting attachment without damaging the wall or risking the wardrobe coming loose over time. Which anchors or fastening systems are the most reliable for this purpose? Are there any special techniques, such as reinforcements behind the drywall or specific screws? I have also considered whether it might be necessary to install an additional wooden subframe, but that would involve more work. Who has practical experience or can recommend proven methods for securely mounting Ikea Pax to drywall? Thanks in advance!

Hello Buaref, your question is very well formulated and important, as drywall walls can indeed be challenging for heavy furniture. Basically, you should know that simple anchors are not sufficient in drywall when it comes to supporting the weight of a fully loaded Pax wardrobe.

I strongly recommend using load-distributing cavity anchors or toggle bolts. These expand behind the drywall and spread the load over a larger area. You should make sure to install these anchors at least three to four attachment points per cabinet section.

Additionally, it can be helpful to screw a wooden batten (mounting strip) to the wall. This should be fastened with heavy-duty anchors and, if possible, directly into the wall studs. Then you attach the cabinet to this batten – this way, the load is first transferred to the substructure and then to the supporting studs.

Avoid screwing small screws directly into the drywall at all costs. This will not hold for long.

If you like, I can prepare a detailed step-by-step guide for you.

Hello Buaref,

here is a structured guide on how to securely mount the Ikea Pax wardrobe to a drywall (plasterboard) wall:

- Step 1: Determine the location of the wooden studs behind the drywall using a stud finder.
- Step 2: Whenever possible, screw directly into these studs. This is the safest option.
- Step 3: Where no stud is accessible, use toggle anchors or heavy-duty cavity anchors. These expanding anchors provide good support behind the drywall panel.
- Step 4: If possible, install a horizontal mounting strip made of sturdy wood at the height of the top frame or where the wardrobe can be adjusted. This strip should be fixed to the studs using appropriate heavy-duty screws.
- Step 5: Attach the wardrobe to the mounting strip to evenly and securely distribute the load.

Common mistakes such as using standard plastic anchors or too few fixing points often cause damage. Also, consider the load the wardrobe will carry later and select strong anchors and screws accordingly.

If you need to screw without hitting studs, plan for at least six fixing points to properly distribute the load.

I’m happy to answer any questions about specific anchor brands or types if needed.

Hello Buaref,

I would like to provide a more detailed explanation regarding drywall (plasterboard) walls and mounting, as incorrect assumptions often lead to problems later on.

First, it is important to understand that drywall panels are basically gypsum board panels mounted on wooden or metal studs. These panels are not designed to support high point loads. Therefore, it is always necessary to attach fixtures where the supporting framework is located.

If it is not possible to fasten directly into the wooden or metal studs, hollow wall anchors (toggle bolts or spring toggles) are required. These anchors open or expand behind the panel, distributing the load over a large area so it does not act solely on the thin drywall.

Heavy-duty anchors with certified load capacity are recommended, rather than standard metal anchors intended for light-duty use.

An important point: If you are mounting the Ikea Pax on a free-standing drywall without additional reinforcements, I recommend attaching a mounting strip made from wood measuring 40 x 60 mm (1.6 x 2.4 inches) or larger. This strip should be screwed into the studs using wood screws at least 6-8 cm (2.4-3.1 inches) in length (minimum 4.5 x 70 mm / 0.18 x 2.8 inches) so that the load is not carried by the gypsum board alone.

This wooden strip essentially acts as a load-bearing plate. You can then fasten the wardrobe to it using the included furniture brackets or angles.

Also, pay attention to using screws of the correct length: many people use screws that are too short, which only grip the drywall, leading to pull-out failures.

One more tip: Before installation, fully assess the weight of the Pax and keep in mind that the load increases significantly due to clothes rods, heavy clothing, and potentially uneven stresses (e.g., when doors are open).

I am interested to know if you have already examined the wall or its supporting structure more closely? Stud spacing? Metal or wood? This greatly affects the choice of screws and anchors.

Filippo schrieb:
Also pay attention to the correct screw length: Often, people use screws that are too short, which only grip the drywall, causing them to pull out.

This is really important. I fixed my Pax to the wooden studs with 6x70 mm (1/4 x 2 3/4 inch) wood screws and additionally used toggle anchors in the panel areas – it has held firmly to this day.