ᐅ How can Ikea Brimnes furniture be disassembled more easily?

Hello everyone,

I am currently working on disassembling an Ikea Brimnes bed frame, specifically the version with drawers. I have noticed that some parts are quite difficult to take apart, especially the side panels and the lower cross supports, which seem to be secured with cam lock fasteners and wood screws. My question is: How can Ikea Brimnes furniture be disassembled more easily and carefully without risking damage to the wooden parts or the connecting hardware? Are there any proven methods, special tools, or practical tips to help release the cam lock connectors and drawer mechanisms more smoothly? I have already tried working gently with an Allen key and a small screwdriver, but some areas are quite stubborn. It would also be helpful to know if there is a recommended order for disassembling the parts to avoid problems during reassembly.

I look forward to your advice and experiences.

Hello Laivory51,

First of all, thank you for your detailed question. Disassembling Ikea Brimnes furniture, especially the drawer beds, is indeed more challenging than it might initially seem. The cam lock fasteners are designed to be very sturdy, which ensures stability but can cause difficulties during disassembly if the proper technique is not used.

My recommendation for making the disassembly easier and less damaging is based on a systematic approach:

- Prepare your tools: A suitable Allen key (often 4 mm), a small screwdriver (Phillips or flathead), a rubber mallet, and if needed, a thin lever tool (such as a putty knife or plastic wedge).

- Remove drawers: Before starting, take out all drawers completely — this creates space and makes access easier. Carefully check the rollers or drawer slides to avoid damaging any clips or hooks.

- Release the cam locks: Cam locks are often set deep into the side panel holes. It is important to first loosen the cam lock slightly with the Allen key until it can rotate freely. If it gets stuck, gently pry off the cam lock cover with the small screwdriver to better access the mechanism. Never apply excessive force to avoid cracking the wood.

- Follow the correct order: First remove the reinforcing crossbars; this will make it easier to detach the side panels. This way, the overall structure gradually becomes less rigid, releasing tension on the joints.

- Use leverage: If a joint resists removal, a light tap with the rubber mallet on the back of the piece can help loosen it.

Laivory51 schrieb:
My question is: How can I disassemble Ikea Brimnes furniture more easily and gently without risking damage to the wood parts or fastening mechanisms?

A very important point is patience! Using brute force quickly is counterproductive. It’s better to carefully check all connections step by step. You also correctly observed that following a sensible sequence is very helpful to prevent parts from bending or breaking.

Can you tell if your Brimnes model still uses the older cam locks (round and simple), or if it features newer systems like Minifix or eccentric cam connectors? Some newer furniture combines different fasteners, requiring different techniques.

I hope this helps. Feel free to share more details or ask if you are struggling with a specific joint!

To complement kibutar’s comments, here are some precise instructions for disassembling Ikea Brimnes furniture:

- Tools: Usually, a 4 mm Allen key is enough for cam locks and some wood screws. Screwdrivers should be chosen appropriately (Philips or flathead) to avoid damaging screw heads.
- Procedure: Remove the drawers completely, then loosen all visible screws and fasteners. Turn cam locks counterclockwise until they can be removed.
- Sequence: First dismantle the side panels, then the crossbars. This follows the original assembly process and minimizes stress.
- Note: Cam lock connectors are designed to be assembled and disassembled multiple times, but it is always advisable to carefully inspect screws and connectors during disassembly and replace any that are damaged.

kibutar schrieb:
An essential point is patience! Rushing with force is counterproductive.

That is true. Unfortunately, I often see furniture being disassembled with force, causing damage. With Brimnes in particular, it is best to proceed systematically.

One more tip: Label the individual parts immediately after disassembly (for example, with colored adhesive dots) so reassembly goes faster and more smoothly.

If anyone is looking for the special trick to remove the metal drawer rails: There are usually small plastic clips that need to be carefully pressed inward with a thin screwdriver before the rail can be pulled off.

Hey Laivory51 and all other disassembly enthusiasts 🐸,

I completely understand the frustration when taking apart the Ikea Brimnes; sometimes it really doesn’t want to come apart easily. My secret tip is patience, a bit of finesse, and the right "wiggle technique."

What I mean is: When you have a tight connection that just won’t give, try gently wiggling it dry with little force—sometimes pushing from the top, sometimes sideways, sometimes up and down—until it slowly loosens. Ikea’s fasteners are sturdy but not indestructible. If you pull too quickly or roughly, a groove can break or the wood may splinter.

Also, it’s often not necessary to completely loosen the cam locks; it’s usually enough to turn them just enough to make the part moveable. Then you can gently assist with a small lever—such as a flat screwdriver or a spoon handle. Just be sure to apply pressure in the right direction.

BEMAU schrieb:
Mark the individual parts immediately after disassembly (e.g., with colored stickers) to make reassembly faster and easier later on.

I think that tip is great! It saves a lot of hassle afterward.

One more thing: If you’re wiggling things, it’s best to do it with two people—a friend holding the furniture while you work on the screws makes a big difference.

And remember: sometimes the sofa is still more comfortable than stress with furniture 😄, but hey, we’ve got this!