ᐅ What assembly tips are there if screws are missing from Ikea Brimnes furniture?

Hello everyone,

I am currently facing an issue with a recently purchased Ikea Brimnes furniture piece, where some screws are missing from the delivery. Specifically, the small wood screws needed for the back panel and some connections are absent.

Since I urgently need to assemble the furniture, I have a question for the community: What assembly tips do you have if screws are missing from an Ikea Brimnes?

Are there alternative screw types that can be used without concern? Or any other practical solutions for this kind of situation to ensure stability?

I would greatly appreciate concrete advice on spare parts, tools, or improvised solutions. Thanks in advance!

If screws are missing, it’s best to go to a hardware store and buy screws with the same diameter and length. Wood screws that are slightly longer are also acceptable, as long as they are not too thick. Alternatively, you can order replacement parts from Ikea, which is the safest option.

Regarding your question,

it is important not to use random replacement screws that are too thick or too thin, as this can affect stability. Make sure to measure the dimensions of the missing screws precisely because screws that are too long can damage the wood, while screws that are too short do not provide enough grip.

If you cannot get replacement screws from Ikea, I recommend visiting a hardware store to find suitable screws. An employee there can usually help you identify the correct thread type and material. For the back panel, thin, small wood screws are often sufficient.

If you have to improvise, check the stability carefully after assembly and avoid heavy loads until the correct parts are available.

If you like, I can also share some typical dimensions that Ikea frequently uses.

sarlo schrieb:
If you like, I can also give you some typical dimensions that Ikea often uses.

That would actually be very helpful. I’m also familiar with the issue on some Ikea models where small screws have star-shaped heads that can’t simply be replaced with standard screws.

In general, if screws are missing, I recommend the following steps:
- Measure the existing screws or the drilled holes
- Check if replacement sets are available from Ikea (sometimes replacement packs cost only a few euros)
- Purchase screws matching the size, length, and thread type at a hardware store
- Use wood glue to reinforce critical points if necessary (but it should be applied carefully)

Sometimes other assembly materials, such as small metal brackets, can be a temporary solution—especially if screws for connecting elements are missing.

I find this discussion interesting and would like to question whether IKEA spare parts are always the only sensible solution.

LEEJU schrieb:
Alternatively, you can order spare parts from IKEA, which is the safest option.

That may be true, but in my experience, IKEA shipping often takes several days or even weeks. This is not very helpful when you want to assemble something spontaneously.

Regarding alternatives: it is crucial to carefully check the screws and understand their function. Using a size too large can quickly cause cracks in the material, while a size too small may lead to loosening. As sarlo already mentioned, the exact dimensions are really important.

Also, I wonder if anyone has experience with whether screws sourced independently match the material quality and strength of the original IKEA ones. It would be helpful if someone has test reports or practical experiences on this.

I also think it makes sense to always keep an assembly kit with small spare parts and various screws at home – this helps prevent such problems.

If you don’t have time to wait for a replacement from Ikea, I would recommend the following:

- Measure the missing screws precisely
- Look for suitable wood screws at a hardware store, ideally made of stainless steel or galvanized
- Avoid using the cheapest screws, as this can often cause problems with furniture
- Alternatively, borrow screws from similarly sized furniture items around the house

This way, you can usually complete the assembly without having to wait a long time.