ᐅ IKEA Besta DIY: How can I build shelves with additional lighting?

Hello everyone, I am planning to build an IKEA Besta shelving unit myself and integrate additional lighting. My question is: what is the best way to add illuminated shelves within the Besta system?

I have done some research and know that LED strips are a common solution, but I am uncertain about how to neatly wire them, connect the power supply, and integrate the lighting into the shelving both safely and aesthetically. Are there any tips on choosing the lights, connecting to the mains power (e.g., power adapters, switches), and how to keep the installation as simple yet professional as possible?

I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!

Really cool project! I’ve personally lit a Besta shelf and can say that LED strips are fantastic and very flexible. It’s best to choose dimmable LEDs so you can adjust the lighting mood. I attached my strips to the edges of the shelves with double-sided tape and neatly hid the cables behind the back panel.

It’s important to use a suitable power supply, which you can place discreetly somewhere in the room. I installed a simple switch in between so I can easily turn the light on and off.

Keep your spirits up, it will turn out great! Just give it a try and keep at it 🙂

Romin schrieb:
I attached my strips to the shelf edges using double-sided tape and neatly tucked the cables behind the back panel.

I think that’s a great approach; it really keeps the lighting completely out of sight. If you experiment a bit with RGB LEDs, you can even create cool color changes, but that doesn’t have to be right away!

A small tip: route the cables so you can easily remove them later if needed – usually, you’ll want to make some adjustments afterward 😉

I also installed LEDs in my Besta unit and think it’s a really nice upgrade for the shelf. From my point of view, it’s important to pay attention to cable management: cable channels or small clips help a lot.

Additionally, the power supply should be placed in a well-ventilated area because heat dissipation should not be underestimated. Sometimes IKEA shelves aren’t ideal for this, as they can be quite closed off at the back.

One more tip: buy LED strips with adjustable dimming functions, so you can enjoy them longer.

Why is there always such a hype around LED strips? Sure, they are practical and affordable, but they often aren’t very durable and can start to light unevenly after a while. If you really care about quality, you should consider installing individual LED spotlights or even small fluorescent tubes – these are a bit more complex to install but provide much more pleasant lighting and better longevity.

Just a thought... and I wonder: how many here actually insulate the electrical connections properly? Contact voltage on the storage shelves – that’s where I draw the line.

It is best to buy LED strips with a 12V voltage. Select a power supply that provides enough amperage.

Solder cables and connectors properly or use connectors.

Mount with adhesive tape or clips. No exposed cables; ensure everything is installed safely.