ᐅ The white KALLAX arrives with a yellow tint – has anyone else experienced this?

Created on: 10 Nov 2022 18:07
J
Julaus
J
Julaus
10 Nov 2022 18:07
Hello everyone,

I recently ordered a KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA in white. At least, that’s how it was sold and listed in the product description. Unfortunately, when the unit arrived, it doesn’t look like a bright white at all, but rather a very light, almost yellowish cream color. This is especially noticeable in daylight and simply doesn’t match the advertised white.

Has anyone else had a similar experience? Does IKEA sometimes deliver the KALLAX in a white that appears more yellowish? And if so, has anyone filed a complaint about the product and can share how well IKEA handled it?

I’m asking in detail because I’m not yet completely sure whether this is a manufacturing defect or if other factors like lighting and surroundings are affecting the appearance. The website clearly states the color as white, not cream or ecru.

I’d appreciate any experiences or advice regarding complaints or other steps to take. Thanks in advance!
N
nubar
10 Nov 2022 18:15
Your issue is understandable and quite common with IKEA shelving units. With KALLAX, it can happen that the surface color varies slightly due to different production batches and manufacturing locations.

If the yellowish tint is visible and bothers you, I recommend first comparing the stock available at a local IKEA store to rule out any variations. Filing a complaint with IKEA is usually straightforward if the product differs from what was advertised. Make sure to keep your receipt and document the color difference, for example, by taking photos against a neutral white background for comparison.

Based on experience, they respond promptly, especially if the product clearly deviates from the description.
S
Siflo
10 Nov 2022 18:27
Regarding color variation: KALLAX is officially designed in matte white, not in pure high-gloss white. This can appear yellowish or cream-colored under different lighting conditions, which is common for coated MDF panels.

Color matching does not guarantee 100% consistency from batch to batch. These are industrially manufactured products that allow for certain tolerances.

Clarity is best achieved through direct comparison, ideally in the IKEA store or with another KALLAX of the same color. Complaints should be documented; otherwise, IKEA’s 365-day return policy applies in case of incomplete satisfaction.
J
Julaus
10 Nov 2022 19:03
Siflo schrieb:
Color matching does not guarantee a hundred percent consistency from one batch to another.

That is understandable in principle, but what bothers me is that the product page online clearly and repeatedly emphasizes “white.” A cream or yellowish variant is neither offered nor mentioned there.
nubar schrieb:
Complaints to IKEA are usually handled smoothly if the product differs from the advertisement.

At least that gives some hope. I will call IKEA tomorrow and explain the situation.

Are there people here who have already filed a complaint about the shelf and received a replacement delivery? How long did the process take? And what about the replacement—did the color actually match then?
K
kasan
10 Nov 2022 19:45
Just as a thought: How the color appears in your home largely depends on the surrounding light and nearby colors.
Julaus schrieb:
Online, 'white' is highlighted, but a yellowish shade was delivered.

The issue might be less about the product itself and more about expectations. Are there any direct comparison options, for example at an IKEA store? Or have you already unpacked the shelving unit and placed it in your room?

Without an objective comparison, a complaint is always difficult. Could the shelving unit have been manufactured in a batch with a slightly different finish? That should be carefully checked. Also: White is not just white – color definitions vary greatly across the industry.
R
raulso
10 Nov 2022 20:01
Haha, that sounds like the classic "white shoe phenomenon" – white isn’t always white ;-)

Jokes aside: I ordered a KALLAX a few months ago myself, and I have to say the lighting at my place also makes the entire shelf appear more yellowish, even though it’s actually white. My tip: If it’s not a major issue, try checking it under different lighting or daylight.

If you decide to file a complaint, keep us updated – I’m curious to see if IKEA will be accommodating. Good luck!