ᐅ My KALLAX Got Scratched Shortly After Purchase – Is That Normal?

Hello everyone,

About two months ago, I bought a KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA and to be honest, I’m a bit disappointed because the surface has already developed several visible scratches after a relatively short time. I mainly use the shelf for books and decoration, so it’s not subjected to heavy use or moved around unnecessarily, yet the scratches seem to be multiplying.

Is this normal for KALLAX? Has anyone had similar experiences? I’m wondering if this is due to the material quality or if I might be doing something wrong, for example with maintenance or usage.

I would appreciate any advice, as a shelf for the living area should ideally be more durable, right? Thanks in advance!

bengabriel schrieb:
the surface already shows several visible scratches after a relatively short time.

Oh dear, that’s really unfortunate! I actually find the KALLAX quite sturdy for the price, but of course, the surface is only coated and not solid. Especially if you often rearrange decorations or slide books back and forth, scratches can naturally occur.

Still, I wouldn’t worry too much—minor signs of use are almost to be expected :-) Maybe you could try using felt pads under objects or soft liners for heavier books, that often helps.

Chin up, there are worse spots for furniture, but I completely understand your frustration! Eventually, shelves look like mine do—I call it my “charm of life” 😉

So keep going and love the shelf despite the small flaws!

Regarding the matter:

The KALLAX shelving unit is typically made of particleboard with a melamine resin coating. This material is cost-effective and visually appealing, but the surface is prone to scratches since it does not have a durable lacquer or real wood finish.

Scratches on melamine resin are a well-known issue with furniture of this type and brand. This is neither a manufacturing defect nor an exception, but rather a characteristic of the material.

The manufacturer's care instructions advise avoiding moisture and harsh cleaning agents to minimize damage. In everyday use, it is recommended to use protective pads or felt glides under decorative items.

In summary: This behavior is typical and normal to some extent, especially with heavy use. Those seeking a more scratch-resistant surface should consider other materials or be prepared to spend more.

Dirkmin schrieb:
This behavior is typical and normal to some extent

Typical, yes, but should we really just accept it like that? I think it also highlights a much bigger issue: our consumer culture demands cheap furniture, which then immediately gets the next scratch due to the choice of materials.

Who really wants a shelf that looks like it has been through several moves after only a short time?

And

Davidleo schrieb:
"the charm of life"

sounds nice, but it completely ignores the issue of quality and sustainability.

Maybe IKEA should ask itself more often how long something lasts before it gets scratches and if there isn’t another way to do it. Customers are often brushed off with material fatigue as “normal” instead of real improvements being made.

Sure, cheap furniture has the charm of impermanence. But do we really have to celebrate that? I mean, quality doesn’t always have to be a luxury.