ᐅ Is there a guide for retrofitting lighting inside Ikea BESTA units?

Hello everyone,

I am considering adding lighting to the inside of my Ikea Besta cabinet as a retrofit. I am particularly interested in whether there is a reliable, detailed guide that explains how to properly and safely install such lighting.

The following points are especially important to me:
- What type of lighting is recommended for the Besta (LED strips, spotlights, etc.)?
- How should the power supply be set up, ideally without major structural modifications?
- Are there good tips for cable routing and switch integration?
- Are there specific safety considerations to keep in mind, especially with wooden furniture or surfaces with laminate/coating?

I have found some forum posts but no comprehensive step-by-step guide. Who can help or has experience retrofitting lighting in the IKEA Besta?

Thank you in advance!

sanfar schrieb:
What type of lighting do you recommend for the BESTA (LED strips, spotlights, etc.)?

For me, LED strips were perfect because they are very flexible to install and generate very little heat.

sanfar schrieb:
How is the power supply ideally set up without major structural changes?

I was initially worried about cable clutter, but with powerful small power supplies and power strips, it was not an issue. Everything runs through a single outlet hidden behind the furniture.

sanfar schrieb:
Any good tips for cable routing and switch integration?

You might consider combining switches with motion sensors, which is very convenient. I secured the cables with self-adhesive clips on the back panel.

sanfar schrieb:
Are there specific safety considerations, especially with wooden or veneered furniture?

The LED lighting should not emit too much heat, as that can damage wood and veneer. So pay attention to the current and preferably use cool LED technology.

I hope this helps! I recall making some personal notes as well; I should look for them and add here later.

I would like to explore this topic a bit further, as there is unfortunately no official guide from Ikea for retrofitting interior lighting in the BESTA, which makes the DIY area relevant.

Here is a structured overview that I can recommend:

- Lighting selection:
- 12V LED strips are best suited due to low heat, flexibility, and simple power supply.
- Alternatively, small battery-powered LED lights, if no mains connection is possible.

- Preparation:
- Empty and thoroughly clean the furniture.
- Prepare mounting materials (double-sided tape, clips, cable ties).

- Power supply:
- Place the power supply outside the furniture, for example at the back or bottom on the floor.
- Lead cables out through existing drill holes or slots.
- Be careful with wood drilling to avoid compromising stability if needed.

- Installation:
- Stick LED strips along the interior edges, cleaning and degreasing the surface beforehand.
- Fix cables with self-adhesive clips or cable channels.
- Switch integration: either inline toggle switch on the cable or incorporate a motion sensor.

- Safety:
- Never place LED lighting directly under sensitive surfaces to avoid heat damage.
- Ensure adequate ventilation.
- Choose a power supply with CE marking and appropriate safety certifications.

In general, I recommend planning carefully in advance which areas should be illuminated and how the power connection will be implemented. It often comes down to small details, but making mistakes can lead to unnecessary effort in the end.

Unfortunately, there is no fixed Ikea guide, but there are many helpful tutorials by hobbyists in various forums that I have used for inspiration.

LOGEMIN schrieb:
Never place LED lighting directly under sensitive surfaces to avoid heat damage

Right, LED strips are great because they emit very little heat.

For power: connect the plug adapter at the back of the furniture. Secure the cable with clips, nothing complicated.

I would recommend using motion sensors. They save you from having to switch the lights on and off and extend their lifespan.