ᐅ My KALLAX unit no longer holds magnets – any ideas?

Hello everyone,

I have had a KALLAX shelf from IKEA for some time, in which I use various magnets to attach notes, small items, or decorations. Unfortunately, the problem has arisen that the magnets are holding less and less well, sometimes not sticking to the unit at all. I have already checked whether the magnets themselves are still okay, which as far as I can tell they are, since they work perfectly on other surfaces.

My guess is that the coating or the material of the KALLAX unit is no longer sufficiently magnetic or that something may have changed due to dust or surface deposits. Has anyone had similar experiences or any tips on how to improve the magnet adhesion on the KALLAX again? Are there certain materials or cleaning methods I could try?

I look forward to your advice!

Hello,

maybe the surface is too smooth or lacquered, so the magnets have very little contact. Try lightly sanding the area with some sandpaper and cleaning it thoroughly. This can help improve adhesion.

Hello Batibar,

I understand your concern and am happy to help. The issue with magnets on KALLAX units is quite common and usually stems from the following causes:

1. Material properties: KALLAX units are typically made from particleboard with a melamine resin surface or a laminated finish, which is not magnetic. Magnets therefore need a metallic surface to stick to.

2. Contamination: Dust, grease, or oil on the surface can also reduce magnetic adhesion.

3. Type of magnet: Smaller or weaker neodymium magnets may not generate enough magnetic force on such a surface.

Recommendations:

- First, clean the surface with a suitable cleaning agent (isopropanol or mild dish soap, then wipe dry).

- Since the surface is not magnetic, you might consider obtaining thin steel sheets or magnetic films and attaching them to the back or inside of the unit. This provides an ideal metal base for your magnets.

- Alternatively, you can use self-adhesive metal plates that are very thin and almost invisible.

In summary: Neither the KALLAX surface nor simple metal surfaces without steel are ideal. If your magnets are not sticking well now, it is very likely due to a missing metal base or contaminated surfaces.

I hope this helps! If you like, I can also recommend manufacturers or product types.

KUDAISY schrieb:
Since the surface is not magnetic, you could possibly get thin steel sheets or magnetic films and attach them to the back or inside of the module.

Interesting point, but I wonder if attaching metal plates to the KALLAX might affect its stability or appearance. Does anyone have experience with how this impacts the load-bearing capacity or aesthetics? I’m also curious whether a coating on the surface could influence the adhesion of the magnets.

It’s often said that melamine resin surfaces are smooth, but whether this alone significantly reduces magnetic adhesion is questionable. Perhaps multiple factors are at play.

Genevieve schrieb:
whether attaching metal plates to the KALLAX might affect its stability or appearance

From my experience, this can usually be done without any problems if you use thin, self-adhesive steel sheets or magnetic films. These are so thin that they definitely do not compromise stability. As for appearance, it largely depends on the placement – on the inside or back of the shelf board, they usually go unnoticed.

Regarding painting or coating: a glossy or sealed surface can actually reduce adhesion because magnets have little initial contact. This is common especially with smooth melamine or foil finishes. Cleaning usually helps, but it won’t make the magnetic hold any stronger.

My advice: Try to attach the metal base as inconspicuously as possible and use clean magnets. This way, you achieve reliable adhesion without affecting the look.