ᐅ How can IKEA HEMNES furniture be repaired quickly and easily?

In short: Loose hinge? Just tighten the screw. Drawer sticking? Clean and oil the runners. Scratches? Use furniture wax or a walnut. Most issues are not a big deal.

It is important to know that IKEA Hemnes is often made from a combination of solid wood and MDF. This makes it susceptible to swelling and shrinking due to moisture.

If drawers are sticking, you should check whether the wood has warped. Simply oiling usually does not help; instead, using a file or fine sandpaper to slightly adjust the edges may be necessary.

Although this requires more effort, it can prevent problems in the long run.

I always appreciate being able to repair furniture instead of just throwing it away – even the HEMNES series has a certain style that grows on you.

If anyone feels unsure, I can only encourage you, because usually it’s just small adjustments that make a difference.

My advice for the little ones: be patient. Sometimes loosening the screws and gently wiggling them is the best approach before getting frustrated.

And if things get tricky, just take another look with a bit of a roll of the eyes—everything will work out.

Elodie schrieb:
To fix drawer sticking: Just check the tracks for any debris and maybe apply a little olive oil – it works wonders and is usually available at home.

However, olive oil is not the best lubricant because it can go rancid quickly and become sticky. Special silicone sprays or paraffin wax are better suited.

koduga schrieb:
If anyone is unsure, I can only encourage you, since most of the time it’s just minor adjustments that help.

I agree, but sometimes small adjustments feel more like temporary patchwork. For me, a sustainable repair means clean solutions that maintain functionality in the long term.

GALEO4 schrieb:
However, using olive oil as a lubricant is not the best idea, as it goes rancid quickly and can become sticky.

The recommendation of food-grade lubricants like olive oil is indeed uncommon. For a quick and simple repair, I also suggest using commercially available silicone sprays or beeswax as a dry alternative, since they do not become sticky and last longer.

In general: Avoid overusing unnecessary substances, apply oil sparingly, and clean purposefully.

GALEO4 schrieb:
However, olive oil as a lubricant is not the best idea, as it goes rancid quickly and can remain sticky.

Exactly! I just wanted to say it in a light and humorous way 🙂

The important thing is to find a simple and suitable method without having to buy expensive maintenance products. Silicone spray or furniture wax are of course also great – and taking it easy makes the whole process enjoyable.