ᐅ My dog has chewed the corners of the KALLAX unit – is it possible to repair them?

Created on: 9 Oct 2021 08:13
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Oralklo
Hello everyone, I have a somewhat unusual question and hope to benefit from your experience: my dog seems to have chewed on the corners of my KALLAX shelf unit — these are the typical white ABS plastic edge protectors that IKEA uses. The corners are partially gnawed and look damaged. Since I don’t want to replace the entire shelf right away, I’m wondering if there are any ways to repair or replace these chewed corners without having to dismantle the whole KALLAX? Maybe someone has a practical tip for fixing or modifying such damage, ideally in a way that is durable and visually appealing? I’m open to all ideas, thanks in advance!
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dosogau
9 Oct 2021 11:07
Similarly, apply epoxy resin putty, sand smooth, then prime with plastic primer and paint—preferably matte, otherwise scratches will become visible again. This method works very well in the long term.
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LENNAU
9 Oct 2021 11:34
Hello Oralklo, if you’re still unsure about the repair, keep the following in mind: ABS can be repaired quite effectively with the right two-component filler, as already mentioned. It’s important to carefully fill deeper areas and then sand multiple times to achieve a smooth surface. Matching the color is always challenging, so it’s best to test with small amounts of paint. If you want a more permanent solution, you can also find transparent edge protectors at IKEA or from third-party suppliers that can be slid over the edges of the KALLAX. This hides any damage completely and is replaceable. Perhaps this could be a less invasive alternative.
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Declan55
9 Oct 2021 12:03
Victor54 schrieb:
What about the corner durability if a dog starts chewing on it again?

Great point! But fortunately, if the dog no longer has the urge, the repair is completely sufficient! That’s exactly how I saved my old shelf without any issues! Also,
LENNAU schrieb:
transparent edge protectors
are a lifesaver if you want extra protection. Just put those on and everything stays safe and sound! 🙂
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karlau
9 Oct 2021 12:49
Let's be honest – no matter how well you repair the corners, the KALLAX is a low-budget piece of furniture. If it were a designer item, I would understand these repair efforts. But really, who wants their slobbered-over bookshelf to look perfect? I think the dog gave it the perfect patina effect! 😉 As long as the shelf still stands, everything is fine. You're overthinking it.
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Oralklo
9 Oct 2021 13:27
karlau schrieb:
Who really wants to make their slobbery bookshelf look perfect?

There is actually a difference: I don’t necessarily want it to be perfect, but neat and clean, so it doesn’t look like I’m about to throw it away. Also, the shelf is in the living room, so it’s important to me that it looks reasonably tidy.

I agree with Declan55 and LENNAU: if I can find edge protectors that can be slipped on, that would be great. The problem is, as far as I know, IKEA doesn’t sell those corner pieces individually. That’s why I’m asking here – maybe someone knows where to get plastic edge protectors for KALLAX or similar furniture?
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BOSULE
10 Oct 2021 08:14
One option is to search privately on platforms like eBay Classifieds or specialized spare parts markets. Some users sell individual ABS edge bands or complete parts at lower prices. You could also try contacting IKEA directly to ask if they have spare parts for the KALLAX system—occasionally replacement profiles are available, even if they are not advertised. Alternatively, I recommend standard edge protection profiles from the hardware store, which are often made of flexible plastic and can be easily cut to size. With a bit of DIY effort, they can be attached quite unobtrusively.

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