ᐅ Using KALLAX as a Changing Table – How to Reinforce It?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to use my IKEA KALLAX as a changing table since its height is perfect and it offers practical storage space. However, I am a bit concerned about stability and especially safety. The KALLAX is not originally designed as a changing table, which worries me given the weight of a baby and the additional pressure during changing.

My specific question is: How can the KALLAX be reinforced safely and to support weight reliably so that there is no risk of wobbling or slipping? Are there proven methods or materials you would recommend to strengthen the frame and ideally secure an elevated surface firmly?

I look forward to your tips and experiences!

Hello Cleomau,

I believe it makes sense to first improve the structural stability. With KALLAX units, it is common for the structure to have some lateral and base play. For this, I recommend securing the back panel against slipping—either by attaching sturdy plywood sheets on the inside or by using metal angle brackets to reinforce the corners.

Additionally, if you want to use a padded cover, it is advisable to firmly connect it to the KALLAX. This can be done by screwing through the cover and the top KALLAX panel, fastening from underneath without compromising stability.

Depending on the type of floor, I also suggest using non-slip felt or rubber pads on the feet to prevent shifting. If you like, I can provide further advice on the best screws and panels for this.

PULAU schrieb:
I think it makes sense to first improve the stability. [...] by attaching sturdy plywood panels on the inside [...]

I would like to add that plywood with a thickness of at least 12 to 15 mm (0.5 to 0.6 inches) is recommended to achieve effective reinforcement. It is advisable to install these panels on the inside, exactly along the side walls and the back of the KALLAX unit, securing them with at least four screws per panel to properly resist shear forces.

Another point is the load capacity of the top shelf, which is typically not designed to support concentrated loads like a baby. In this case, an additional cross brace underneath the top panel can help—for example, a sturdy wooden or metal bracket screwed across the depth of the shelf to prevent bending.

Question: Are you planning to build the changing pad yourself or use a ready-made solution? This will influence the choice of attachment method.

And one more safety tip: definitely check the tipping stability, especially with a narrow KALLAX—additional floor fasteners or a small wall-mounting kit might be added if possible.

TEBILO schrieb:
Question: Are you planning to build the changing pad yourself or use a ready-made solution?

Thank you, these are already very helpful suggestions! I plan to place a commercially available changing pad on top, which I want to secure with Velcro straps. The attachment itself should remain as flexible as possible so that I can remove the pad and continue using the KALLAX unit as a regular shelving unit.

PULAU schrieb:
It is also advisable to firmly connect the changing attachment [...] to the KALLAX.

That sounds secure, but is it still compatible with my idea of keeping the attachment flexible? Are there alternatives that provide a firm hold without permanent screws?

Perhaps non-slip mats or special clamps?

I’m also interested in how much I should reinforce the back panel if I opt for permanent fixation of the attachment. Would a double plywood panel be advisable, or is a single 15 mm (0.6 inch) thickness sufficient?

Hello Cleomau,

I completely understand your concerns, especially regarding the flexible changing pad. A proven solution is to use non-slip rubber or foam mats under the changing pad. This way, you can secure it firmly without screws, and it can still be easily removed whenever needed.

Regarding your question about reinforcing the back panel: a single 15 mm (0.6 inch) plywood sheet is often sufficient if it is attached over a large area. It is important not to fix the panel only in the center but also along the edges where the most stress occurs. Some people also use metal brackets here for additional stabilization.

If you are using clamps, make sure they do not interfere with the wooden joints of the KALLAX to avoid weakening its structure.

One more tip: if you want to optimize the height of the changing table, you can place a continuous wooden board on top of the KALLAX so that the entire surface is perfectly level and the load is evenly distributed.

All in all, this works very well. Safety is of course the top priority when changing, and with the reinforcements mentioned, you will be on the safe side. 🙂