ᐅ Is there a guide on how to make Ikea Besta doors close more quietly?

Created on: 27 May 2023 08:32
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Lege6
Hello everyone, I have assembled an Ikea Besta shelving unit a few weeks ago and am generally happy with it, but there is one thing that bothers me: the doors close quite loudly and with a bang, which is especially unpleasant at night. I’m wondering if there are any instructions or specific tips on how to make the Ikea Besta doors close more quietly? I’m not only looking for ways to dampen the noise but also whether it’s possible to adjust or optimize the closing mechanism to make it softer without having to upgrade to expensive dampers. Does anyone have experience with simple solutions, official Ikea guidelines, or proven hacks to reduce the noise when closing the doors?
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pikin
27 May 2023 19:23
In addition to the points already mentioned, users should also check the exact type of hinge, as Ikea sometimes uses different models.

If external dampers are installed, it is important to consider the maximum installation height to ensure they do not interfere or change the door position.

The best compromise between noise level, effort, and cost is usually achieved by retrofitting soft-close mechanisms or using rubber buffers with minimal installation effort.
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theo63
28 May 2023 07:29
Ethan schrieb:
If your Besta hinges don’t have built-in soft close, you can retrofit so-called soft-close hinges. The dimensions and drilling distances need to match, otherwise there will be compatibility issues.

This retrofit option is probably the technically best way to ensure quieter closing. However, the extra effort and necessary tools should not be underestimated. A slightly damaged drill hole or incorrectly chosen hinges can quickly damage the entire cabinet.

Does anyone here have practical experience with retrofitting Besta furniture? It would be especially interesting to know how well the result works in everyday use.
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Giagau
28 May 2023 10:03
I have readjusted the original hinges on my Besta doors and also attached small self-adhesive silicone bumpers on the inside of the doors.

The result: The slamming noise is significantly reduced, though not completely eliminated. I did not upgrade to soft-close hinges because the cost was too high for me.

My tip: With precise adjustment and inexpensive bumpers, you can reduce the noise level by up to 70% without much effort.
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Lucien
28 May 2023 13:37
One more note: Some Ikea Besta models have easily replaceable hinges.

One way to make the doors quieter is to replace them with soft-close hinges, for example from third-party suppliers with identical dimensions. It is important to carefully follow the installation instructions and not to compromise on stability.

The more cost-effective option remains retrofitting silicone bumpers.
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Lege6
29 May 2023 08:11
theo63 schrieb:
Does anyone have practical experience with converting Besta furniture? I’m especially interested in how well the result works in everyday use.

Thank you all for the helpful answers; I really appreciate it!

I find retrofitting soft-close hinges interesting, but I’m hesitant about the effort involved. Primarily, I want to properly adjust the hinges first and add some damping.

Is there a systematic guide or procedure for adjusting Ikea Besta hinges so that closing feels significantly smoother and more dampened? Or is it more of a trial-and-error process?

I want to avoid creating new problems by turning the screws the wrong way.
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Ethan
29 May 2023 10:48
Lege6 schrieb:
Is there a systematic guide or procedure for adjusting the Ikea Besta hinges so that the closing action feels noticeably smoother and more cushioned? Or is it mostly trial and error?

There is some method to it, but often a bit of trial and error is necessary:

- The hinges usually have three screws: one for lateral adjustment, one to bring the door closer to the cabinet frame, and one for the closing force.
- Gradually reduce the closing force by slightly loosening the corresponding screw so that the door doesn’t slam too hard against the cabinet.
- Adjust the horizontal and vertical position simultaneously to ensure an even closing action.
- Test the closing after each adjustment to check if it feels smoother.

It’s best to make small adjustments rather than large changes at once. Over time, it’s more about fine-tuning than fully resetting the adjustment.

If needed, I can post a simple step-by-step guide in a follow-up thread.