ᐅ Are KALLAX shelves usually available in different colors when purchased new?

Hello everyone,

I recently ordered a new KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA, and while assembling it, I noticed something: the individual shelves have noticeable differences in color, even though it’s supposed to be the same model and color. Some shelves are slightly lighter, others significantly darker – I’m wondering if this is normal with a new purchase or if I might have received a defective or used item?

Maybe someone here has had a similar experience or can explain whether this is due to manufacturing processes or if IKEA allows some quality variations. I’d prefer not to return everything if this is typical, but visually it does look quite inconsistent.

Thanks for your insights!

rossfe schrieb:
During assembly, I noticed that some of the individual shelves vary noticeably in color

That’s great that you noticed such a detail! 🙂

I was lucky with my KALLAX shelves; the colors on all the panels were quite consistent. However, I know that sometimes at IKEA there can be slight variations because the panels may come from different production batches. This can occasionally cause small differences in color.

No need to worry, this isn’t necessarily a defect but rather common in mass-produced furniture! Maybe you can place the slightly darker panels at the bottom or against the back to make it less noticeable. Hope this helps! Good luck with the assembly 🙂

ixlu1 schrieb:
There can sometimes be slight variations at IKEA because the panels may come from different production batches

Hello rossfe,

to answer your question: Yes, color variations in KALLAX shelves are unfortunately not uncommon, especially when panels from different production batches are mixed. IKEA produces large quantities, and the panels undergo edge banding and surface finishing in several steps, which can cause minor differences depending on the batch.

This is technically unavoidable and is usually not considered a defect but rather a characteristic of mass-produced items. However, if the differences are as significant as you describe, it might be worthwhile to contact IKEA customer service or inquire about an exchange at the store. Color differences are particularly noticeable with white or light colors.

I would recommend checking before returning whether the differences are really bothersome to you or if you can work around them. Have you tried rearranging the shelves to improve the appearance?

Best regards!

risar schrieb:
So I would recommend checking before returning whether the differences are really a dealbreaker for you or if you can effectively conceal them.

Thanks, that’s a good tip!

Yes, I have now arranged the boards a bit differently so that the darker ones are mostly placed at the bottom. That actually makes it less noticeable. Still, I was surprised because I usually expect pretty good quality control from IKEA, and the boards looked very uniform in the photos.

ixlu1 schrieb:
sometimes minor variations occur because the panels can come from different production batches

I understand that, it makes sense. I will probably follow up with IKEA again, maybe something can really be done. Maybe I just got unlucky with this batch.

Have you ever experienced IKEA actually sending replacement boards when you reported such issues? That would actually be an acceptable solution for me.

The perception of color differences in KALLAX shelves is due to several technical factors:

1. Manufacturing: The particle boards are coated with melamine resin, which can lead to color variations between batches.
2. Light exposure: Different storage and transportation conditions affect the color appearance.
3. Drying and pressing processes: These can cause slight changes in shade and gloss depending on the production time.

Therefore, slight color differences within one set are technically unavoidable but should not be extreme. In cases of significant discrepancies, a claim may be justified.

Regarding your question about replacements: IKEA generally offers exchanges or spare parts. Deliveries of individual shelves are less common but possible. It is recommended to contact IKEA customer service, or even visit a local store to explain the situation and explore alternatives.

This way, you can pursue an appropriate solution.

Juan31 schrieb:
Slight color variations within a set are technically unavoidable

I agree, but I think it’s worth looking more closely at the cause.

Have you checked whether the shelves actually all come from the same product line and the same production batch? IKEA may have different suppliers for the same product name.

rossfe schrieb:
I’ll probably follow up with IKEA again, maybe they can really do something

I would advise you to proceed systematically: note the differences, possibly with a detailed description of the color nuances and surface texture. Then request an official statement.

Especially in online stores, feedback can help reveal quality issues that are not just isolated cases.

This is also an interesting aspect of quality control and customer service for large suppliers.

Looking forward to hearing what you report!