ᐅ What is the best way to clean Ikea PAX wardrobes with sliding doors?

Created on: 11 Dec 2017 08:36
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Katjakeo
Hello everyone, I have been using the Ikea Pax wardrobe with sliding doors for some time and would like to know the best and most sustainable way to clean it. I am especially interested in how to care for the sliding doors so that the aluminum frames and glass surfaces don’t get scratched or become dull. I’m also wondering if there are any specific cleaners I should definitely avoid because they might damage the tracks or seals. Does anyone have experience with regular cleaning and maintenance, particularly for these sliding doors? I look forward to tips and recommendations that go beyond usual dusting, as I want to find a thorough yet gentle cleaning method.
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DUUS32
11 Dec 2017 11:05
I also had a similar issue with the doors being hard to move, which was quite annoying. I completely removed them and thoroughly cleaned the tracks. It’s best to take out the running tracks, wipe them down with a damp cloth, and remove all residue. Afterward, I reinstalled the tracks dry and clean. It was important to carefully rehang the doors to avoid any misalignment.

Regarding the seals: I initially had concerns too, but if you clean them gently and avoid harsh cleaners, they actually last a long time. Just check them every few months for cracks or dirt and clean them gently as needed.
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Katjakeo
11 Dec 2017 11:47
Thanks for the tips on removing the tracks and the advice regarding the seal inspection!
lis64 schrieb:
Removing the tracks is quite easy with Ikea Pax sliding doors.

Sounds doable, I’ll probably give it a try.

One more question: What about cleaning inside the tracks themselves? I mean where the rollers run. Should that area also be cleaned or wiped damp? Or is vacuuming enough? How do you usually handle this?

And another thing about cleaners: I’ve been told that ammonia-based cleaners might damage aluminum. Is there any reliable information on whether the running tracks or frames can actually be harmed by this, or is it just a theory?
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Tause
11 Dec 2017 12:20
Interesting questions here, especially regarding the chemical effects of ammonia on aluminum. It is true that ammonia can corrode or damage aluminum if applied over a long period. However, this usually occurs with concentrated or industrial products, and less so with common household glass cleaners that contain only small amounts of ammonia. Nevertheless, for preventive reasons, I would recommend using ammonia-free cleaners to minimize the risk.

Regarding the mechanical cleaning of the sliding tracks: simply vacuuming is often not enough, as grease and dirt can also accumulate. A gentle damp cleaning with a lightly moistened cloth is advisable, but be sure to dry the area thoroughly afterward to avoid corrosion or residues. Cleaning the inner areas where the rollers run should be done regularly to maintain smooth movement.
Katjakeo schrieb:
How about cleaning inside the tracks themselves? Where the rollers run.

You can also carefully clean those areas with a cotton swab to reach difficult spots.
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GALEO4
11 Dec 2017 12:45
Since there's a lot of discussion about cleaning products here, I’d like to suggest a different approach: Why not just use natural solutions? I personally use water with a small splash of lemon juice for glass surfaces. It cleans well, is environmentally friendly, and does not damage the materials. For aluminum frames, a slightly damp cloth with a little vinegar works well.

I think the whole thing is made much more complicated than it needs to be. Often, expensive specialty cleaners just release chemicals into the air that aren’t much better than simple household remedies.
Muso4 schrieb:
I’m always surprised at how careful some people are with Ikea cabinet doors.

I agree, it’s usually not rocket science.
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risar
11 Dec 2017 13:15
The most important aspect of cleaning is to ensure that the materials do not get too wet and dry quickly, so that neither the glass nor the aluminum is damaged.

Some natural products like lemon juice or vinegar can clean well, but vinegar may dry out or damage sensitive seals over time. Therefore, it is better to use only water and mild soap for these parts.
GALEO4 schrieb:
Ich finde, das Ganze wird viel zu kompliziert dargestellt.

Nevertheless, it is good to be aware of the risks and to be cautious, especially if you want to enjoy the cabinet doors for a long time.
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Katjakeo
12 Dec 2017 09:28
I would like to thank everyone who took the time to answer my request in such detail. I will now proceed step by step:

- Remove the tracks and clean them with a damp microfiber cloth; use cotton swabs for tight spots if necessary
- Vacuum the guide rails and then wipe them dry; do not use oily lubricants
- Clean glass surfaces with a mild glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution, applying sparingly
- Wipe aluminum frames with a damp cloth and let them dry quickly
- Gently clean seals with soapy water and check for any damage

If I encounter any problems during disassembly or cleaning, I will get back in touch. Your answers have really helped me approach maintenance in a more organized and mindful way.