ᐅ How can I make custom dividers for Ikea BESTA drawers myself?

Created on: 6 Apr 2024 08:37
S
Saugustavo
Hello everyone,

I recently bought an Ikea BESTÅ drawer unit and would like to customize it with homemade dividers to better organize the storage space. Unfortunately, the accessories available from Ikea don’t always fit the drawer dimensions or the type of layout I have in mind.

My question is: What is the best way to make and install custom dividers for the BESTÅ drawers?

I’m especially interested in which materials work best to create a sturdy, durable, and visually appealing result. Are there proven methods to securely fix the dividers inside the drawers so they don’t shift or damage the drawer sides?

Any tips on accurate measuring and working with the divider materials (e.g., cutting, sanding) would also be appreciated.

Thank you in advance for your suggestions and experiences!
B
blapau
7 Apr 2024 15:51
Davidleo schrieb:
It is very sturdy, and the compartments can be adjusted at any time.

That convinces me as well; I believe a slot system made of MDF is the most durable in the long run since the material is strong and repairable.

A good idea is to line all edges with felt tape during installation – this protects against scratches inside the drawer and provides some cushioning.
S
SETHBLA
8 Apr 2024 08:22
Summary: Plug-in system made of 8 mm (0.3 inch) MDF, grooves cut to half the thickness, sanded for a precise fit. You can also use double-sided tape for fixing if a permanent solution is desired.
S
Saugustavo
8 Apr 2024 09:35
andre3 schrieb:
A grid system with multiple connectors and perhaps a small guide rail on the drawer bottom provides sufficient stability, even for heavier contents.

Thanks again for the detailed advice! It sounds complex but reasonable.

I’m considering whether I could use strips of soft silicone or rubber as a guide rail instead of wooden slats—something non-slip yet flexible. Is that possible? Has anyone tried this approach?

I imagine it would cause less damage to the drawers and also offer advantages when cleaning.
B
blapau
8 Apr 2024 11:12
Saugustavo schrieb:
I’m considering using strips of soft silicone or rubber as guide rails instead of wooden slats – something non-slip but still flexible. Is that possible?

That works quite well if the silicone strips are strong enough to hold the divider panels. The advantage is that the interior walls of the drawers won’t get damaged, and the dividers can be easily removed.

The rubber strips should be attached to the bottom of the divider panels and, if needed, slightly foamed (about 1-2 mm (0.04-0.08 inches) thick) to ensure a good grip.

Simply remove them for cleaning and wash as desired. A recommended alternative to wooden slats.
D
Davidleo
8 Apr 2024 16:44
I think the idea of using rubber strips is brilliant! They are especially great for protecting delicate surfaces. I tried this on a drawer and am very happy with the flexibility and stability 🙂