ᐅ KALLAX partitions are loose – how to secure them quickly?

Hello everyone, I have been using KALLAX shelving units from IKEA for some time now to divide spaces. I noticed that the partitions, which are slotted between the shelves, fit quite loosely and don’t feel as stable as I would like. So, my question is: what is the best way to secure these KALLAX partitions to prevent them from wobbling or being loose? Whether it’s adhesive, screws, additional brackets, or other mounting methods – I appreciate any advice. It is important for me that the shelving can be disassembled again without much effort. Thanks in advance!

Hello Viviananon, I’m familiar with your issue with the loose KALLAX divider panels, as these panels are actually just held in place by friction and are not screwed or glued.

A proven and reversible method is to use small felt or rubber washers or sealing strips where the divider panels make contact with the shelf boards. These increase friction and compensate for minor unevenness.

I once tried small adhesive pads from a craft store, which are easy to remove yet still provide a firm hold. Alternatively, small angle brackets made of metal or plastic can be screwed onto the back, but this would require drilling into the shelf, making it harder to revert later.

If you want to stay flexible, I would recommend non-permanent solutions. This way, you can also remove or reposition the dividers more easily in the future.

Hopefully, this helps as a first approach!

Kinbu schrieb:
A proven and reversible method is to use small felt or rubber washers or sealing strips

This is definitely the approach I would recommend to securely fix a loosely fitting KALLAX partition panel without being too invasive. To go into a bit more detail: KALLAX partitions are often made from relatively thin wood-based material and only fit into grooves in the frame. Because these grooves have manufacturing tolerances, the panels tend to loosen quickly.

Here is what I suggest:

1. First, check if the groove or partition profile is dirty or worn out anywhere; a light cleaning never hurts.

2. Then, you can cut thin plastic strips, for example made of polyethylene (commonly available as sealing or insulating tape), and wedge them into the groove. This creates extra pressure and holds the panel firmly in place.

3. Alternatively or additionally, self-adhesive hook-and-loop dots (Velcro) are very useful, as they are flexible and can be removed carefully without leaving residue.

4. Another option is to drill lightly and screw in concealed corner brackets if you want to fix the shelf permanently—be sure to measure carefully to avoid splitting the wood.

An important question: How often do you plan to remove or reposition the partitions? This will determine whether reversible methods or permanent fixings are more appropriate.

Your feedback on this would help me provide more specific recommendations.

Viviananon schrieb:
What is the best way to secure these KALLAX divider panels so they don’t wobble or become loose? Whether it’s adhesive, screws, additional brackets, or other mounting methods – I’m grateful for any advice.

In addition to the methods already mentioned, I would recommend using specialized mounting adhesives or double-sided mounting tapes commonly used in furniture assembly. These provide a strong hold but can often be removed without residue by applying some heat (e.g., a hairdryer) if needed.

There are also products available at hardware stores called “silent blocks” or rubber buffers, which are very helpful for reducing vibrations and loose fittings. These can be easily wedged between the wall and the shelf board.

If you decide to use screws, use short chipboard screws with a wide head and be sure to pre-drill with a small drill bit to avoid splitting the wood. This way, you can unscrew them again later without causing significant damage to the shelf.

Since the shelf should remain removable, I recommend the non-permanent methods. This is the best way to maintain both the appearance and functionality over time.

kibutar schrieb:
How often do you plan to remove or relocate the partition walls?

If it's only occasional, I would recommend using mounting tape or felt gliders. They hold well, are easy to remove, and protect the shelving unit.

I would only use screws if you are sure you won’t be disassembling the shelving again.

I wouldn't recommend adhesive because it compromises the ability to take it apart later.