ᐅ How can Ikea Pax drawers be retrofitted?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to add extra drawers to my existing Ikea Pax wardrobe to better organize the storage space. Currently, I only have hanging rods and shelves, but I would like to take advantage of the fact that the Pax system allows you to retrofit drawers. My question is:

How can you add Ikea Pax drawers when you already have a frame without drawers? Are there special mounting kits or adapters required? What dimensions and weight capacities should be considered? Do you have any tips on how to install the drawers properly so they don’t stick or fit too loosely? Which screws or tools are recommended? And finally, what should be avoided to ensure that the newly installed drawers last a long time and operate smoothly?

I would appreciate a detailed guide or personal experiences. Thank you in advance!

In general, retrofitting drawers into Ikea Pax systems can be done relatively easily if you stick to the system’s standard dimensions.

- First, it is important to know that Pax drawers typically come in two depths: 35cm (14 inches) and 58cm (23 inches). You need to know the depth of the existing cabinet.
- To retrofit drawers, you will need the appropriate drawer fronts, side panels, runners, and screws. Replacement parts are usually available separately from Ikea.
- For installation, remove any existing shelves in the positions where the drawers will be inserted.
- The runners are screwed onto the sides of the inner cabinet, and then the drawer is hung onto them.

Tools: A cordless screwdriver with a Phillips bit, a tape measure, a spirit level, and possibly a rubber mallet are helpful.

Important:
- Accurate measurements and level alignment are essential to ensure the drawers slide smoothly and do not stick.
- The load capacity of the drawers is usually around 13–15 kilograms (29–33 pounds) per drawer and should not be exceeded.

Avoid improper screwing or using excessive force during installation to prevent damage to the cabinet.

I would like to add a brief step-by-step guide for retrofitting Pax drawers:

1. First, precisely measure the depth of the Pax carcass (35 cm or 58 cm (14 inches or 23 inches)).
2. Purchase Pax drawers and drawer runners with the appropriate depth from Ikea or an accessory supplier.
3. Remove any shelves where the drawers are going to be installed.
4. Mount the runner rails inside on the carcass sides using the supplied screws. Be sure to use a spirit level to avoid uneven installation.
5. Assemble the drawer boxes if they are not pre-assembled.
6. Insert the drawers into the runners and check the catches (small locks on the runners) to ensure they do not stick.

Common mistakes and tips:
- Always tighten screws by hand only to prevent bending the runner rails.
- Make sure nothing is obstructing the runner area (dust, residue).
- For very wide drawers, pay attention to additional center guides.

This way, the drawers usually last for years without any issues.

Paxton38 schrieb:
Load limits for drawers are usually around 13-15 kg (29-33 lbs) per drawer, and this should not be exceeded.

This is a really important tip! Out of ignorance, I once put heavier items in the drawers, and after a short time, they started to not slide as smoothly. From my own experience, I can say: it’s better to load smaller items more often or reduce the load in the drawers than to overload them permanently.

Also, if you’re inexperienced, the installation can feel a bit stressful at first, especially if the drawers don’t slide perfectly right away. My advice is to stay calm, proceed step by step, and double-check the measurements if you are unsure.

Sometimes it also helps to insert the drawers empty at first to see if they move smoothly, and then continue with the installation. This helped me avoid frustration.

klo40 schrieb:
Insert the drawers into the runners and check the catches (the small locks on the sliding rails) to ensure they don’t stick.

I can add that the small locks on the sliding rails are often the key to smooth drawer operation. This requires some fine adjustment, as they sometimes need to be slightly readjusted.

When retrofitting, I also recommend paying attention to how the cabinet itself is aligned. Often, the cause of sticking or tilting drawers is that the cabinet is not perfectly level or is standing on an uneven floor. Before installation, be sure to check the cabinet and level it as needed using small shims or furniture wedges.

For those who have never worked with such a system before: the supplied materials and assembly instructions are quite good, but it is still important to take your time and carefully follow each step. If necessary, individual components can be purchased separately to fix any issues.