ᐅ How can I upgrade Ikea Metod kitchen cabinets after installation?

Hello everyone,

I’m currently thinking about how to visually and functionally upgrade my Ikea Metod kitchen cabinets. The kitchen has been installed for two years, but it’s starting to look a bit dull, and some minor functional issues have become noticeable, like the hinges and handles.

I’m mainly interested in practical solutions that I can implement myself relatively easily, without having to completely dismantle the kitchen. Possible options could be different handles, paint or adhesive foil finishes, but also functional additions such as improved internal organization or storage systems.

Do you have any experience with useful upgrades for Metod kitchens or maybe even tricks that Ikea itself doesn’t offer? I would really appreciate concrete tips, materials, and possibly sources to obtain them! Thanks in advance.

Hello Ioanri,

Changing the handles is an easy way to update the design. Handles made of metal or wood, which can be simply screwed on, are especially recommended.

You can also replace the cabinet fronts if you’re willing to invest a bit more. For functionality, better drawer inserts or organizational systems are helpful and are often available specifically designed for Metod.

Hello Ioanri,

I can relate to your situation, as I have had similar experiences. For Metod kitchens, the following upgrades are particularly worthwhile:

- Replacing handles: IKEA offers several alternatives, but third-party options also fit well.
- Painting or applying vinyl wraps to fronts: Using special furniture adhesive and vinyl film, you can achieve high-gloss or wood-look finishes, for example.
- Interior organizers: IKEA and other manufacturers provide well-fitting accessories, such as cutlery trays, plate holders, or practical dividers.
- Replacing hinges: Better soft-close systems significantly improve functionality.

Important when applying vinyl: Always clean the surface thoroughly beforehand and, if needed, lightly sand it for optimal adhesion. If you like, I can provide more details on any of these points.

Ramon4 schrieb:
Interior organization: IKEA and other manufacturers offer well-fitting organizers, such as cutlery inserts, plate holders, or practical dividers.

That sounds very interesting. Could you maybe provide specific product examples? I want to make better use of the drawers and create more storage space, but also keep things organized. Are there differences in the Metod system between the various drawer heights?

Regarding the drawer inserts for Metod:

- For the 40 cm (16 inches) and 60 cm (24 inches) deep drawers, IKEA offers various divider and insert systems made of wood or plastic.
- Cutlery inserts are modular, available in both wide and narrow options, tailored to the internal dimensions.
- For plates and pans, plate holders and pan inserts are available, which can also be adjusted to the drawer width.

Alternatively, third-party suppliers offer metal or more flexible inserts with handles. Note: The height dimensions of Metod drawers vary (approximately 18 to 40 cm (7 to 16 inches)), so be sure to measure the internal dimensions precisely before purchasing.

Technically, I recommend measuring the height, width, and depth of your drawers exactly to avoid buying the wrong size.

If you want to change the look: wood-effect or black films are very popular but can be tricky to apply perfectly. Painting is possible if you remove the fronts and prepare them with very fine sandpaper beforehand.

Simply replace the handles – it’s best to measure the screw holes in advance to ensure the new ones fit. Hinges can be exchanged for soft-close versions, which often greatly improve comfort.