ᐅ How can I securely install Ikea Metod wall cabinets on drywall (plasterboard) walls?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to install wall cabinets from the Ikea Metod system on drywall in my apartment. Since these cabinets can be quite heavy and I want to ensure the safety and load-bearing capacity of the wall mounting, I have the following question: How can I securely install Ikea Metod wall cabinets on drywall?

Specifically, I am looking for recommendations on the best fastening method that is both highly load-bearing and permanently stable, as I do not have additional load-bearing walls—only standard gypsum board on wooden or metal studs.

Which anchors or special systems have been tested and are advisable? Should I drill into the studs or only into the drywall panels? How should the load be distributed?

I would appreciate detailed tips and possibly references to existing recommendations from Ikea or building professionals. Thank you in advance!

You should definitely drill into the wall studs, not just the drywall panels. Although the Metod wall cabinets are not extremely heavy, drywall alone cannot support the load permanently without proper fastening.

I recommend heavy-duty anchors such as metal anchors or specialized hollow wall anchors designed for drywall. However, whenever possible, these should be installed directly into the wooden or metal studs behind the panel.

For load distribution, a wide mounting strip, such as a plywood board or a dedicated heavy-duty rail, is a secure option. This strip is firmly screwed to the studs, and the cabinets are hung on it. This way, the weight is distributed evenly.

Gino38 schrieb:
You should definitely drill into the wall studs, not just the drywall.

That is absolutely correct. With drywall constructions, the load-bearing capacity mainly depends on the underlying framework. Fixing solely into the drywall leads to long-term instability and a higher risk of anchors pulling out.

Additionally, I recommend the following points:
- Before installation, accurately locate the studs using a stud finder (circuit tester).
- If the studs are spaced too far apart, use a mounting strip to attach over two or more studs.
- Use high-quality expansion anchors or toggle bolts for extra loads if the stud is not accessible, but only in exceptional cases.

IKEA generally does not provide specific fittings for drywall, so it is best to rely on proven carpentry methods.

I know that this can be a challenge for many when dealing with drywall (plasterboard) walls, as nobody wants to take any risks.

I felt the same way when I was installing my kitchen and initially had concerns about whether the cabinets would hold. It helped me to thoroughly understand the mounting process and to consider the metal studs behind the drywall as the main points of attachment.

If you’re unsure: get a neighbor or a professional to assist you if the installation feels too risky. You can’t simply fix things to drywall the way you would with solid walls. Good anchors and proper load distribution are essential.

DIRKMIN schrieb:
If the studs are spaced too far apart, attach a mounting strip across two or more studs.

Thank you for this tip; it is important information for me. My studs are spaced 62 cm (24 inches) apart, so does that mean I should install a wooden strip or plywood panel screwed onto the studs, and then attach the wall cabinets to that?

I’m wondering how thick the strip should ideally be to ensure stability, and whether I can screw it directly into the studs without having to use additional anchors in the drywall.

buwilhelm schrieb:
I am wondering how thick the board should ideally be to ensure stability, and whether I can screw it directly to the studs without using additional anchors in the drywall.

For the mounting strip, I recommend a plywood panel with a minimum thickness of 18 mm (0.7 inches). Plywood is strong, vibration-damping, and can easily hold multiple fastenings. The strip should be wide enough to span several studs at once – at least 10 cm (4 inches) wide.

You should screw exclusively into the studs, meaning no anchors in the drywall, when installing the strip. This provides maximum load capacity and prevents future damage.