ᐅ How can I convert Ikea BESTA into a wine rack?

Hello everyone, I am considering converting my Ikea Besta shelving unit into a wine rack and want to make it both functional and visually appealing. My goal is to securely store wine bottles while also accommodating glasses and small accessories. The question is how to best adapt the existing compartments—whether to remove shelves, build custom inserts, or use inserts—and if there are any recommendations for optimal storage. Does anyone have experience with this type of conversion? I am especially interested in secure holders for bottles that allow for angled positioning, as well as tips for sturdy, self-made inserts. Thanks in advance for any ideas and advice!

Lago9 schrieb:
My goal would be to store wine bottles securely as well as possibly accommodate glasses and small accessories.

Hey, that’s a great idea! Ikea BESTA is a great basic framework. For the bottles, I would suggest inserts made of wood or sturdy plastic that you place inside the compartments—ideally with small cutouts for the bottle necks so nothing wobbles. Glasses fit well in the upper compartment if you use hooks attached under the shelves. A bit of patience, some DIY skills, and a little paint—and there you have it, your new wine rack that also looks really stylish 🙂

Lago9 schrieb:
I am particularly interested in secure holders for bottles that allow for an inclined position, as well as tips for sturdy, self-made inserts.

This is a very interesting project, and I’m happy to help you with it. For converting the IKEA BESTA shelving unit into a wine rack, it is essential to first carefully check the shelf dimensions, as standard bottles are usually between 30–35 cm (12–14 inches) long. It is recommended to remove the shelves and create a depth inclination of 15 to 20 degrees so that the bottles rest securely, the cork stays moist, and no air can enter.

Technically, you can achieve this by building angled wooden slats as inserts, equipped with small side stops to prevent wobbling. Be sure to use suitable wood: birch plywood or MDF are stable and easy to work with.

If you plan single-layer shelving only, then the shelves should ideally be connected directly to the back panel to ensure adequate stability. Multi-layer shelves are recommended if you want to combine glasses and bottles. Integrating glass holders mounted underneath a shelf allows for a space-saving and visually light solution.

Also, pay attention to sufficient ventilation—especially if you use the rack in a room without air conditioning. If you have any more questions, such as about drilling or screws, feel free to ask!

TEBILO schrieb:
For converting the IKEA BESTA shelf into a wine rack, it is essential to first accurately check the shelf dimensions, since standard bottles are usually between 30–35 cm (12–14 inches) long.

Exactly, a small caliper is helpful for this. Oh, and one more thing: if you’re working with wooden slats, lightly round off the edges. No sharp points touching the wine—this not only feels better for the bottles but also looks more professional.😉

Lago9 schrieb:
whether to remove intermediate shelves, build special inserts, or use trays

Personally, I would try using inserts that you make and place yourself. That way, you can still use the shelf flexibly when there are no bottles inside.

By the way, a note on structural stability: The BESTA shelving unit is very sturdy, but if you plan to store multiple heavily loaded wine racks, make sure that the feet are properly supported and consider adding additional bracing if necessary.

The side panels of the BESTA are not as thick as solid wood, so it’s important to securely fasten the shelf supports—ideally using metal brackets fixed from the inside. Otherwise, the shelves might sag or shift under load.

Feel free to ask if you want details, for example about the correct type of screws or anchors to use.

I really like it when someone creatively modifies an Ikea shelving unit. I’ve tried placing wine bottles in standard shelves myself – it usually doesn’t work well because nothing holds properly and everything wobbles.

If you’re unsure whether the DIY project might be too stressful, consider making only two or three tiers for wine storage and using the rest as regular shelving. That way, you still keep flexibility and the unit doesn’t look overloaded.

And don’t worry, mistakes happen, but that’s normal and part of the process, especially with DIY furniture. Good luck!