ᐅ How can I modify IKEA BESTA units to integrate improved lighting?

Hello everyone, I am planning to modify my IKEA Besta furniture to integrate better lighting, as the existing internal lighting is too weak for my needs. Specifically, I am wondering how to install LED strips or other lighting options inside the Besta cabinets without significantly reducing storage space or compromising the furniture’s stability. What suitable power supply solutions would be effective to avoid tangled cables and visible wiring? Does anyone have experience installing dimmable LEDs or motion sensors in this furniture? I would greatly appreciate tips on the best products, cable management, and installation, ideally including which tools and materials are required. Thanks in advance!

Keodra schrieb:
How can I install LED strips or other lighting options inside BESTA cabinets without significantly reducing storage space or compromising the furniture’s stability?

I can definitely understand how frustrating poor lighting in such furniture can be, especially when you use it a lot and don’t want to turn on the main room light every time. I attached LED strips to the inside of the shelves in my BESTA units—thin enough so that storage space isn’t affected. It was important to me not to drill holes in visible areas, so I stuck the LEDs to the back panel. This didn’t affect the stability at all.

Regarding power supply: I used cable channels to keep everything neatly concealed. Cable management is definitely the biggest challenge, but if you place the cabinet against a wall outlet, you can hide the cables well.

I don’t have dimmable LEDs, but motion sensors are a great idea to have the light turn on only when the door is opened—I plan to try that next time. I wish you good luck and can offer some advice on better LEDs if you want.

Hello Keodra, I read your question and would like to provide some systematic advice.

1. Planning is key: Measure the interior dimensions of the built-in unit precisely to select LED strips of the right length, ideally with a protective coating (IP20 or higher if moisture is a concern).

2. Installation: I recommend flexible LED strips with a self-adhesive backing – these can be easily installed along the interior edges. Make sure there is enough space to avoid placing the LEDs too close to shelves or doors to optimize light dispersion.

3. Power supply:
- Use a power supply with sufficient wattage reserve.
- For a clean, wireless look, I suggest cable channels or thin cable coverings that run discreetly along the back.

4. Wiring:
- Motion sensors are a great addition and work best with 12V systems.
- Alternatively, you can integrate dimmable controllers for more flexibility.

5. Safety:
- Ensure all connections are secure and that no loose cables remain.
- Use high-quality insulating tape or heat shrink tubing on soldered joints.

Summary:
Effort and planning pay off. For the installation, you only need basic tools (screwdriver, drill with a small bit, optionally a soldering iron). I completed my finished installation in under 2 hours and am very happy with the result. If you want specific product recommendations, just let me know.

nojaus schrieb:
I don’t have dimmable LEDs, but motion sensors are a really great idea

I agree! Motion sensors inside a cabinet? Definitely a winner, especially at night when you want to use minimal lighting.

With IKEA Besta, you can easily integrate flexible LED strips because the furniture has a very straightforward design.

- Stick the strips to the upper inner edges, then it becomes really bright without the LEDs being intrusive.
- If you like colors, there are smart RGB LEDs you can control via an app.
- You can neatly secure the cables to the back panel of the furniture using thin cable ties, keeping everything tidy.

It’s not rocket science, but for the right atmosphere, I think this is a fantastic solution. You can even make it a fun project 😉

onMarcos schrieb:
I recommend flexible LED strips with a self-adhesive backing

I would like to agree with this and add the following:

- Pay attention to the color rendering index (CRI): For living spaces and furniture, I recommend LEDs with a CRI above 80, preferably 90, to represent colors naturally and pleasantly.
- Power supplies should be certified and suitable for continuous operation.
- When installing inside furniture, always use cables with flexible sheathing that can withstand frequent opening without damage.
- To avoid visible wiring, flat cables and PET cable ducts are useful.

It is also advisable to test the installation in a corner beforehand to ensure the lighting does not cast unexpected shadows.

I would advise against dimmable solutions if you are not familiar with electrical work, as this involves potential risks. It is better to use pre-assembled, ready-to-install options.