ᐅ KALLAX always tilted on felt pads – does everything keep slipping?

Created on: 12 Jun 2017 09:14
D
durabi
Hello everyone,

I have a KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA and I’m quite unhappy with its stability on the felt pads. Despite careful installation, the unit always stands slightly crooked, which is frustrating—especially since the pads are supposed to help prevent shifting. Unfortunately, the shelves and the inserted boxes even slide around sometimes, which affects both the overall appearance and usability.

Has anyone had similar experiences or perhaps a tip on how to keep the KALLAX shelving unit permanently level and non-slip on felt pads?

Looking forward to your replies!
L
laureo
12 Jun 2017 11:55
In my opinion, the problem is that the felt pads do not provide enough friction against the floor and are often unevenly attached, causing the furniture to stand crooked.

My recommendations:
1. Check if all the pads are exactly the same height – if necessary, use washers or similar small spacers to adjust.
2. Replace the felt pads with high-quality, non-slip pads specifically designed for furniture.
3. Alternatively, apply self-adhesive anti-slip tape under the shelf.

These measures usually lead to a significant improvement without damaging the floor.
D
durabi
12 Jun 2017 12:44
NOAHSAU schrieb:
Maybe all these glides are just a placebo for the guilty conscience

Interesting point! In fact, the felt glides do not help with stability at all; they only protect the floor.

Tomorrow, I will experiment with washers and report whether this makes the stand more stable.

Also, I am considering replacing the glides with anti-slip versions. Thanks for the tips!
N
Natan
13 Jun 2017 08:19
The core of the problem seems to be a combination of uneven load distribution and unsuitable materials.

Felt, being soft and smooth, does not provide high friction, so the shelf can easily tip or slide, especially when it is loaded or placed on a smooth floor.

Your idea of using washers is practical, but a technical solution would be better in the long term—for example, using gliders made of rubber or silicone, which increase friction and can compensate for slight unevenness.

It is also essential to check whether the floor is perfectly level; otherwise, all of this will only be half as effective.
M
minjan
13 Jun 2017 09:02
Washers often help well. Make sure to adjust all the gliders to exactly the same height. Use rubber pads instead of felt for a non-slip base.
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Declan55
13 Jun 2017 10:27
durabi schrieb:
The idea with the non-slip pads sounds promising. What type are you using exactly?

I just used non-slip furniture pads that you can find at any DIY store. They’re usually made of plastic with a small adhesive side. I attached the felt gliders underneath them, and they held really well. Important: Clean the surface thoroughly beforehand so the pads stick firmly!

I’m really happy with this because everything was much more stable afterward. 🙂
R
RIDAN
13 Jun 2017 14:38
Additionally, floor protection mats made of PVC or wood bearing pads prevent slipping and protect the floor.