ᐅ How can I optimize IKEA Hemnes furniture for storage?

Hello everyone,

I’m currently exploring ways to optimize storage in my IKEA Hemnes furniture. I’m especially interested in practical methods that make the most of the available space without affecting the appearance or requiring complex modifications.

I have a few Hemnes dressers, bookcases, and nightstands, and I’m mainly looking for advice on how to better organize the space inside the drawers and compartments, as well as how to create additional storage options. Do you have any tips on shelves, organizer systems, or extra fittings that work well with these pieces? Or even clever DIY ideas you’ve tried?

Looking forward to your suggestions and experiences!

Koman0 schrieb:
I am currently exploring ways to optimize the storage capacity of my IKEA Hemnes furniture even further.

Hey, that’s a great topic! I think the Hemnes series already has a very simple and classic design, so you don’t want to add random solutions that ruin the style.

I find it practical to use smaller storage boxes or baskets inside the drawers to help divide the space—so things aren’t just loose inside. This works especially well in the wide dresser drawers. I’ve also experimented with narrow shelves or divider panels: they can often be easily slid in to create extra layers, almost like a bunk bed for your stuff.

If you prefer a more hands-on approach: attaching a few thin strips inside the furniture to hang small hooks or holders is brilliant, for example for keys or cables.

And don’t worry: it doesn’t have to be complicated—often a bit of “organized chaos” is enough to create more order 😊

To optimize storage space in IKEA Hemnes furniture, I recommend the following proven strategies:

- Use of shelves: The factory-installed shelves are often fixed in place or missing. Adding additional narrow shelves allows for subdividing larger compartments.
- Drawer inserts and dividers: These help organize wide drawers and prevent different items from mixing.
- Utilizing the backs of doors: Installing narrow racks or hooks can provide extra storage for small items.
- Maximizing height: In tall Hemnes cabinets, adding extra shelves or adjustable shelves can improve the distribution of storage space.

Additionally, it is important not to exceed the maximum load capacity of drawers and shelves to avoid material deformation.

DIY ideas often involve custom inserts made from plywood or MDF, but this may affect the original appearance. Therefore, this approach should only be used when functionality is the primary concern.

I fully agree with hauklo’s suggestions and would like to add that although Hemnes furniture is sturdy, it is not necessarily designed to hold heavy loads in the drawers.

Especially when using additional inserts, it makes sense to choose lightweight materials.

pinpa schrieb:
I think the Hemnes line has a very simple and classic design, so of course you don’t want to add mismatched solutions that would ruin the style.

I completely agree with that. It helps to pay attention to materials that match Hemnes in color or texture, such as wood or fabric boxes in natural tones.

Also: Efficient storage optimization often requires a critical inventory of what is really needed and stored. Sorting and decluttering if necessary greatly improves the usability of the furniture.

In everyday use, flexible organizers that can be adjusted or removed as needed have also proven useful – adding a bit of modularity that makes your setup more dynamic.

Ixvin schrieb:
In everyday use, flexible organizers have proven effective, as they can be adjusted or removed as needed – this adds a bit of modularity, making your setup more dynamic.

Exactly! Modularity is such a powerful concept. For example, with the Hemnes chests of drawers, I use stackable plastic boxes with lids – they look neat and are practical when you need to quickly rearrange things.

Another no-go I often see: baskets or containers that are too large and deep, which hardly get used because you always have to empty everything first. It’s better to have smaller units that you can fill purposefully and easily keep track of.

Hidden tip: Flat sliding shelves or rolling containers can also fit behind wardrobes if there is available space. This provides extra storage without having to modify the furniture.