ᐅ What is the best way to store BILLY shelves when they are not assembled?

Created on: 23 Dec 2024 10:37
D
dennisja
Hello everyone,

I currently have a few BILLY shelves from IKEA that I don’t want to assemble right now, but need to store safely for some time. My question is: What is the best way to store BILLY shelves when they are unassembled? I’m especially referring to the individual shelves and side panels made of wooden boards – is there anything to keep in mind to prevent warping or damage? Are there optimal conditions regarding humidity or storage position to maintain their stability and appearance? I would appreciate any tips, especially if you have experience with longer-term storage of BILLY or similar furniture. Thanks in advance for your help!
K
KAULIS
25 Dec 2024 11:03
In addition to the previous advice, here is an overview of the most important points for storing BILLY shelves when they are not assembled:

1. Store flat
2. Use spacers between panels (felt, foam)
3. Protect from moisture by placing wooden boards under the shelves on concrete floors
4. Use vapor-permeable vapor barriers
5. Storage area with a constant temperature ideally between 10-20°C (50-68°F), temperatures below 5°C (41°F) are less ideal
6. Keep humidity preferably below 60%, but not below 30% (too dry promotes cracking)
7. Regularly check for mold, warping, and mechanical damage

Avoid direct sunlight and contact with aggressive chemicals. Under typical basement conditions, wooden boards combined with a vapor-permeable vapor barrier and ventilation may be sufficient, as long as the storage period is not too long – I would avoid more than one to two years.

One last note: BILLY shelves are designed to be assembled; the panels “settle” less when assembled. Longer storage unassembled therefore generally carries some risk of warping.

If you want to improve storage duration, a climate-controlled environment or an alternative storage option will help.