ᐅ How long does it typically take first-time users to assemble the Ikea Hemnes furniture?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to assemble a Hemnes furniture piece from Ikea, but I have no prior experience with their furniture. I am particularly interested in how long the assembly typically takes for first-time users. It would be helpful if you could include which exact furniture piece you assembled, whether you worked alone or with someone else, and how difficult you found the process. Any tips or advice that might speed up or simplify the assembly are also welcome.

I am looking for a realistic estimate of the time commitment a complete beginner can expect when assembling furniture from the Ikea Hemnes range. Thank you in advance for sharing your experiences!

Hello Sauvin,

Your question is quite specific, which I appreciate, as the various Hemnes models differ significantly in assembly effort. About six months ago, I assembled the Hemnes dresser (6 drawers) on my own. The instructions are typically well illustrated, but especially with the drawers, you need to be very precise because the runners must be aligned accurately.

Overall, I spent about 3 hours on the piece, including carefully checking all screws and gathering the tools. I recommend unpacking and sorting all parts before starting the assembly – this saves a lot of time and frustration during the process.

Perhaps this can serve as an initial reference: For a somewhat larger Hemnes item (e.g. dressers or beds), I would estimate an average of 2.5 to 4 hours for first-timers working alone and without much prior experience. Working with two people is certainly faster, but the first time always involves some learning until you get familiar with the system and the instructions.

One more tip: Make sure to have a sturdy helper, for example a second person, available to assist with positioning the furniture. Some parts are too cumbersome to manage alone, especially slatted bed bases or bed frames.

For additional information: Based on various user reports, the time required strongly depends on the complexity of the Hemnes products and the craftsmanship skills.

- Small items like nightstands or simple shelves: up to 1.5 hours
- Dressers with drawers: about 2 to 3.5 hours
- Bed frames: 3 to 5 hours

I always recommend checking all materials beforehand and having suitable tools ready (a screwdriver with a good grip, and if possible, a cordless drill).

The average beginner usually needs more time due to adapting to the instructions and the challenges of fitting furniture made from panel materials.

If desired, I can also create a short checklist to prepare for assembly.

Hey Sauvin,

building the Hemnes dresser last year was quite an adventure for me! I was a complete Ikea beginner and it took me about 3 hours – with a short break to catch my breath 😉

GOLO42 schrieb:
For a somewhat larger Hemnes piece (e.g., dressers or beds), I would estimate 2.5 to 4 hours on average for first-time users

I can only agree with that. But I’d say that with some music and a good mood, it can sometimes go faster. 😊 The most important thing is to take your time and not get frustrated if a screw doesn’t fit right away. Hemnes especially likes to play a little puzzle game with us.

A small tip: once you’ve unpacked all the parts, it’s best to lay them out sorted next to each other – this way you keep a good overview and make fewer mistakes.

Additionally, I would like to address the planning of the assembly process, which is often underestimated.

The actual assembly is only part of the time involved. You should also factor in unpacking, sorting, any necessary adjustments (e.g., door hinges or drawer slides), and the final inspection.

For the average Ikea Hemnes beginner assembling a dresser with 4 drawers, I consider 2 to 3 hours to be realistic if working carefully.

It is also important to:
- Read and understand the assembly instructions thoroughly
- Avoid fully tightening all screws until the furniture is completely pre-assembled

This makes later corrections significantly easier.

1 to 3 hours depending on the piece of furniture and whether you are working alone or with someone else.

A chest of drawers usually takes around 2.5 hours.

Prepare your tools and sort all parts beforehand.