Hello everyone, I am planning to install lighting inside my Ikea BESTÅ shelving unit because the interior, especially in the closed compartments, feels too dark. My question is: How can I integrate lighting that is both practical and bright enough, while also being minimalist and requiring as little complicated modification as possible? Does anyone have experience with installing LED strips, battery-powered lights, or other types of lighting specifically for the BESTÅ modules? I would appreciate concrete tips on mounting, power supply (e.g., hardwired or battery-operated?), and also advice on cable management to avoid tangled wires. If anyone has recommendations for compatible kits or products, I would be grateful to hear about them. Thanks in advance!
tra_nina schrieb:
I want to point out that safety is also very important when installing lighting in IKEA BESTÅ. I agree with that. Especially if you’re considering a fixed electrical supply, the installation should be done properly and according to electrical standards.
Here’s what I took into account during my installation:
- Use of 12V LED systems for safety.
- Wiring only in places where it won’t get pinched or worn when closing the doors.
- A small surface-mounted switch on the outside of the cabinet that can be turned off if needed.
If you don’t have experience with electrical work, it might be wise to have at least the wiring inspected and approved by a professional.
paulu schrieb:
LED strips are great. Best to use USB-powered ones—you can remove and recharge them.I would really question the long-term practicality of battery-powered lights. While they may sound convenient at first, I know several cases where the lights sat unused for months with dead batteries and were simply forgotten.
Therefore, I advocate for permanently installed lighting with straightforward cable management. A well-hidden switch that works reliably provides much more practical comfort and is still less maintenance-intensive than batteries.
T
Timmyse365 Jul 2021 14:02I recently installed LED lighting in my BESTÅ unit myself and can confirm that cable management is really the key. I attached the RGB LED strips to the top shelf and routed a thin cable through the opening in the back panel designed for cables.
The advantage of this is that I didn’t have to drill any holes in the back panel. Additionally, I installed a small motion sensor that automatically turns on the light when the door is opened. It works great, although it was a bit fiddly to set up.
At first, I had also considered battery-powered systems, but in the end, I chose the fixed solution because of ease of use and consistent performance.
The advantage of this is that I didn’t have to drill any holes in the back panel. Additionally, I installed a small motion sensor that automatically turns on the light when the door is opened. It works great, although it was a bit fiddly to set up.
At first, I had also considered battery-powered systems, but in the end, I chose the fixed solution because of ease of use and consistent performance.
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