ᐅ How do I install additional lights inside an Ikea Pax wardrobe?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to install additional lights inside my Ikea Pax wardrobe to improve the interior lighting. I’m thinking of mounting LED strips or small spotlights in a discreet and secure way, so that the wiring is well hidden and the lights neither interfere with the function of the wardrobe doors nor disrupt the appearance.

I’m especially interested in which mounting methods work best – such as screws, adhesive tapes, or magnetic holders – and if anyone has tips for routing the cables within the PAX system, particularly for the common sizes and surfaces. Are there any specific recommendations for power supply, for example whether a power supply unit can be placed inside the wardrobe, or if battery-operated solutions would be better?

I’d appreciate any experience and suggestions related to this topic. Thanks in advance!

I would recommend using LED strips with 3M adhesive tape – they usually adhere very well to smooth surfaces inside the cabinet. It’s best to secure the cables with cable clips along the side walls; this keeps things neat and doesn’t interfere with opening the doors. For the power supply, you can place a small power adapter outside the cabinet to avoid cramped space inside.

When installing additional lights in an Ikea PAX wardrobe, it is important to consider that common surfaces (melamine coating) do not support all mounting methods equally well. Screws provide the most secure fixings, as long as they are attached to a solid substrate, such as the back panel or side walls of the wardrobe structure. Adhesive strips, especially 3M types, can work, but their holding strength may decrease with temperature fluctuations or humidity.

For LED strips, I recommend using industrial-grade double-sided tape combined with small screw supports for extra stability. This prevents the lights from falling due to material fatigue.

For wiring, it is advisable to plan cable routing along the inner sides and use cable clips or cable channels to avoid snagging or pulling on the doors. The power supply should be positioned outside the enclosed space, as power adapters generate heat and require storage space. Battery-operated solutions offer flexibility but usually require more maintenance and may not provide sufficient brightness in larger wardrobes.

In summary:
- Screw fixings or high-quality adhesive strips (used together)
- Cable clips/channels for neat cable management
- Power supply located outside the wardrobe

This ensures a secure, durable installation of the additional lights.

pikin schrieb:

When attaching additional lamps inside the Ikea PAX wardrobe, it’s important to note that common surfaces (melamine coating) do not equally support all mounting methods.

I have to disagree: I believe IKEA PAX systems are actually ideal for adhesive solutions precisely because of their melamine coating. Drilling here only makes things unnecessarily difficult and risks damage that isn’t easy to repair. For me, 3M tape or even special hook-and-loop strips are the best choice. Screws? That’s outdated and ruins the look, and possibly the structural integrity.

Regarding power supply: If you don’t mind dealing with power adapters, you just give up flexibility. Battery-operated lamps are now very advanced and offer much more freedom when placing lights. Those who ignore this option miss out on an easy way to achieve practical interior lighting.

GALEO4 schrieb:

Screws? That’s old-fashioned and spoils the appearance, possibly even the structural integrity.

I think that’s too general a statement. Especially with heavy lighting fixtures or frequent use, an adhesive-only connection can weaken over time. Although melamine surfaces are more delicate, using appropriately short screws and pre-drilling can minimize damage – this significantly improves durability.

GALEO4 schrieb:

Battery-powered lamps are already well-developed and offer much more flexibility in lamp placement.

That’s true; however, with wired lamps—especially those with a power supply—you benefit from continuous power and don’t have to deal with regular battery replacements, which is more convenient for continuous use.

Finally, I recommend paying special attention to cable quality and protective measures during wiring, since furniture can be subject to movement and stress, which might cause damage. For those less technically experienced, a ready-made lighting solution from Ikea or compatible brands might be a safer option.