ᐅ KALLAX shelves sagging – is it possible to replace them?

Hello everyone,

I recently assembled my KALLAX shelf unit from IKEA and unfortunately noticed that the shelves in some compartments are sagging. This is especially noticeable with heavier items like books. My question is: Is it possible to replace the sagging shelves individually without having to replace the entire unit? Are there any recommended alternatives or replacement parts compatible with KALLAX? I have done some research, but IKEA doesn’t seem to offer replacement shelves directly. Has anyone experienced this issue and can offer advice on how to restore the shelf’s stability? Perhaps there is also a way to cut and install suitable MDF or plywood panels yourself?

I look forward to your opinions and suggestions!

Amandali schrieb:
Is it possible to replace the sagging shelves separately without having to replace the entire shelving unit?

Hello Amandali,

Your observation makes sense; the KALLAX shelves are indeed not designed for very heavy loads and can sag when subjected to greater weight. IKEA usually does not offer individual replacement shelves for KALLAX units. However, there are a few proven approaches:

1. Custom-made replacement shelves: For example, you can have an MDF board around 1.5–2 cm (0.6–0.8 inches) thick cut to size at a hardware store. You can either place this board on top of the existing shelves or, if you have some DIY skills, remove the old shelves and replace them with the sturdier boards.

2. Additional reinforcements: Some users add extra support strips underneath the shelves to prevent sagging.

3. Using alternative materials: Sometimes, shelves made from nicer wood, such as plywood, are sanded and painted as replacements.

It is important to measure precisely beforehand and allow some clearance for the shelf depth so everything fits properly. If you only want to replace individual shelves, it is quite feasible with some DIY effort and usually more economical than replacing the entire shelving unit.

I hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you have further questions.

gregto schrieb:
some users reinforce the base with additional strips of wood underneath the shelves

That’s exactly how I did it, and I’m really happy with the result! 🙂

I think it’s great that you might not even need a new base, but can simply add wooden strips for extra stability. It’s super easy and makes the shelf really sturdy! And if you use nice, sanded strips, it even looks quite stylish in the end.

If making the panels yourself feels like too much effort, try this first. It costs almost nothing and adds a lot of stability.

Good luck – you’ve got this! :-)

Amandali schrieb:
Are there recommended alternatives or replacement parts that are compatible with KALLAX?

Hello Amandali,

I would like to offer a brief guide on how you can replace or reinforce the shelves yourself:

1. Material choice: MDF and plywood are good options. MDF provides a smooth and even surface, while plywood offers greater stability and weight capacity.

2. Thickness considerations: IKEA KALLAX shelves are usually about 16 mm (0.6 inches) thick. For replacement shelves, you should choose at least 18 mm (0.7 inches) thickness to reduce the risk of sagging.

3. Cutting: Have the cutting done at a hardware store or do it yourself with a jigsaw. Make sure the edges are clean, as rough edges might cause fitting issues with the grooves.

4. Fitting: The shelves need to fit well but should not be too tight—otherwise, the material might swell or put stress on the shelf frame.

5. Surface treatment: To protect against moisture and dirt, applying a coat of acrylic paint, varnish, or wood oil is advisable.

6. Reinforcements: If sagging still occurs under heavy loads, you can add a central support strip mounted lengthwise underneath the shelf. This strip should rest on both sides of the shelf frame.

I have done this myself and can confirm that it significantly improves the durability and stability of the KALLAX. If you have any questions about these steps, I’m happy to help.