ᐅ My Kallax unit tips over when loaded on one side – how can I prevent this?

Hello everyone,

I have the following issue with my IKEA Kallax shelving unit: as soon as I load one side more heavily, the shelf starts to tilt slightly. This mainly happens when I place heavy binders or books only in the lower compartments on one side. The unit stands on a level floor and according to the assembly instructions it should be stable, but the tilting is still noticeable.

I want to prevent it from tipping over or warping over time. Are there any proven methods to improve the stability without having to completely rebuild the shelf? Or is this a fundamental issue with the Kallax design that can only be resolved by additional wall mounting?

Thanks in advance for your tips!

Hi,

Wall mounting is the safest option. Alternatively, you can evenly distribute heavy objects and attach small, non-slip felt pads under the feet. This improves stability.

Hello bu-chen,

Your issue with the Kallax shelf tipping when loaded on one side is actually quite common. Here are a few tips to help prevent this:

1. Cabinet reinforcement: Sometimes the joints are not tightened firmly enough with screws. Check all screws and consider reinforcing two opposite corners diagonally with brackets.

2. Optimize loading: Heaviest items should ideally be placed at the bottom and as close to the center as possible to keep the center of gravity low and centered.

3. Leveling feet or pads: Small adjustable feet or anti-slip pads can help stabilize the shelf and prevent tipping or sliding.

4. Wall mounting: Many Kallax models are designed for this. It is usually worth doing.

Hope this helps!

Install wall brackets, as they tend to tilt quickly if unbalanced. Otherwise, distribute the weight evenly and avoid placing everything on just one side.

Attach the shelf to the wall; otherwise, tilt protection is difficult. Alternatively, place weights at the bottom center.

Thanks in advance for the quick responses.

I would like to add that I cannot currently fix the shelf to the wall because it is in a rented apartment and no holes are allowed to be drilled into the wall. Are there alternative methods to prevent tipping without the need for drilling?

Also, do you have any tips regarding brackets? Which ones should be purchased, and what is the best way to attach them without damaging the shelf?