ᐅ How can I securely attach Ikea Pax handles without causing any damage?

Hello everyone,

I recently assembled an Ikea Pax wardrobe and now want to securely attach the handles without damaging the surface of the doors. It is important to me that the handles hold firmly, especially since they will be used frequently. Additionally, I want to avoid the screws causing the doors to bulge or the paint to chip. Are there any proven methods or special tools that I can use to install the handles without causing damage or visible marks later on?

Who has experience with fitting the Pax handles and can offer advice on suitable screws, torque settings, or other installation tips? Thanks in advance!

Bulu57 schrieb:
I recently assembled an Ikea Pax wardrobe and now want to securely attach the handles without damaging the surface of the fronts.

I can completely relate to this. I felt the same way back then: a wobbly handle or a drilled spot that swells up was something I definitely wanted to avoid.

What helped me was attaching the handles with mounting washers. They distribute the pressure of the screw better on the inside of the front panel, preventing the material from being pressed in. Also, I carefully screwed in the screws by hand first to avoid overtightening.

One small tip: I had special torque screwdrivers on hand, which made controlling the tightness much easier, but this is not essential. Maybe see if you can borrow the tool.

I’m curious to hear what others recommend!

Bulu57 schrieb:
without damaging the surface of the fronts

To avoid damage when attaching Ikea Pax handles, please consider the following:

- Use the supplied screws with the correct length and thickness, as longer screws could damage the front surface.
- When mounting, place washers or rubber caps between the screw head and the back of the front to prevent pressure marks.
- Tighten the handles only by hand; avoid over-tightening with a power drill.
- If there are no pre-drilled holes, drill them in the correct position using a drill bit with the appropriate diameter.

Carefully controlling the screw torque can reliably prevent damage.

I recommend attaching the handles using the original Ikea screws and tightening them by hand only. This helps prevent denting. If washers are included, always use them.

Brief and factual: To securely install Ikea Pax handles without damaging the front surface, first test the screw length on a scrap piece or on the back of an inconspicuous area. For longer screws, it is better to use shorter ones or add washers. Additionally, screws should only be tightened by hand. Electric screwdrivers with torque settings are ideal. Avoid tilting movements when tightening, as these can cause the drilled holes to tear out.

toril schrieb:
Avoid tilting motions while tightening, as this can cause the drill holes to tear out.

Absolutely correct, the same happened to me the first time when I was too hasty. A small rubber pad, like those used under furniture gliders, can help placed at the front under the handles if the surface is softer.

I always first check the holes to make sure they are clean and free of edges – rough edges increase the risk of material cracking. Extra care is needed if the material is older or has absorbed moisture, as the surface can be damaged more easily in such cases.