ᐅ How can you retrofit soft-close mechanisms on Ikea Pax wardrobe doors?

Hello everyone,

I have a somewhat detailed question about retrofitting soft-close functionality to Ikea Pax wardrobe doors. Is there a way to add soft-close to existing Pax doors that were originally delivered without soft-close hinges? I would like to know if the original hinges can be replaced or if there are alternative solutions, such as soft-close adapters that can be installed additionally without fully changing the hinges. It is also important for me to know whether specific solutions exist for different door types (mirror doors, wooden doors, lacquered doors) and how complex the installation is. Additionally, I would be interested if anyone has practical tips on what to especially watch out for when doing this yourself. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello jepar, you can replace the original hinges with soft-close hinges from Ikea, which fit directly. Just remove the old ones and screw in the new ones. This works the same for all types of doors. Alternatively, you can use soft-close adapters that are mounted onto the existing hinges.

Tobias schrieb:
Alternatively, you can use soft-close adapters that attach to your existing hinges.

Exactly, that’s the quick way to achieve silent door closing! I installed them myself – it was done quickly, and now nothing slams shut anymore. Even the kids are really happy 😅. It’s important to check beforehand whether the adapters are compatible with your hinges. Some are universal, others are not. So here’s a tip: it’s best to buy the parts from a specialized retailer or directly from Ikea!

leomo schrieb:
I did this myself – it was done quickly and now there’s no more banging, even the kids are really happy 😅.

Thanks for the tip! One quick question: If I remove the original hinges, do I need special tools, or is a regular Phillips screwdriver enough? And how about the adjustment when installing soft-close hinges? I know that with Pax doors you often have to correct the door position— is it different or more complicated with soft-close hinges?

For the removal, a good Phillips screwdriver is usually sufficient. The same principles apply for adjusting the soft-close hinges as for regular ones. After installation, the doors can be adjusted in height, depth, and sideways, often using small adjustment screws on the hinge. So don’t worry, it’s no more complicated than before.

jepar schrieb:
And what about the adjustment when installing soft-close hinges? I know that with Pax doors you often need to correct the door position; is it different or more complicated with soft-close ones?

I would even say that soft-close hinges require a bit more precision during adjustment. If they are not set correctly, the damping won’t work optimally, causing the door to close too quickly or not close properly at all. So be patient with the fine-tuning—it’s definitely worth it.