ᐅ What is the best way to disassemble Ikea HEMNES furniture?

Created on: 22 Jul 2023 09:18
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kain34
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kain34
22 Jul 2023 09:18
Hello everyone,

I am currently faced with the task of disassembling an Ikea Hemnes bed frame and want to approach the process as efficiently as possible without causing unnecessary damage. Since the model consists of several parts and uses different joining techniques, I am particularly interested in how you organize the disassembly and which tools you find useful.

I would also like to know if there are any special tips or precautions regarding the connections—such as screws, dowels, or possibly glued joints—that can make reassembly easier or ensure stability.

Who has experience with disassembling HEMNES furniture, especially the bed frame? Any advice on preferred steps, types of tools, and the order of parts would be very helpful. Thanks in advance for your tips!
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FLONE41
22 Jul 2023 09:44
I think it’s great that you are putting so much thought into this, because with furniture like this it’s easy to make mistakes you might regret later. I had a similar experience when I wanted to disassemble my HEMNES dresser – the first step is definitely to stay calm and take your time.

Without the right tools and the original instructions, it can be a bit challenging. I usually used a hex key (Allen wrench), a Phillips screwdriver, and a hammer. It was especially important to me not to lose any screws – I used small containers to keep them safe.

Your approach to also pay attention to the types of joints is exactly right. I remember that some connectors had very tight screws, and it helped to use a bit of WD-40 to loosen them slightly. But be careful not to damage the wood. It’s also important not to pull the parts apart too early before all connections are fully released.
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Gafiel
22 Jul 2023 10:05
Hello kain34,

I approach disassembling HEMNES furniture very systematically because the connection mechanisms are often somewhat complex. The bed frame, for example, typically uses concealed screws, wooden dowels, and Lamello joints. Before you start the actual disassembly, you should plan the following steps:

- Prepare your workspace: create enough room and ideally use a soft surface (blanket, carpet) to avoid scratches.
- Have the right tools ready: Allen key (usually 4mm (0.16 inches)), Phillips screwdriver, possibly a flat plier, and a small rubber mallet for light taps.
- Follow the disassembly order: first, loosen the visible screws, which are often on the frame or headboard.
- Then check the connecting pieces; sometimes the dowels are glued as well, so gentle wiggling can help.

If you encounter resistance when loosening screws, avoid using brute force. Instead, try warming them lightly by hand or applying a little oil. It’s important not to damage the wooden dowels, as they hold the joints together.

One question: are you working with the original assembly instructions, or have you already taken it apart and want to reverse the process? This can affect the level of difficulty.
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gadalu
22 Jul 2023 11:07
For a structured and safe disassembly of the Ikea HEMNES bed frame, I recommend the following procedure:

- First, remove the mattress and any loose coverings.
- Start by loosening the screws on the headboard and footboard.
- Note that the side panels are usually fixed with clips or small slats; these should be carefully supported with a flat tool.
- Loosen screws using the appropriate Phillips screwdriver or Allen key—avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the wood.
- Pay attention to joints with wooden dowels; do not pull these apart roughly, but gently loosen the connections.
- For tighter gaps, a thin putty knife is useful to assist with patient levering.

Additionally, it can be helpful to label each loosened connection point, especially if you plan to reassemble the furniture later.

For tools, a magnetic screwdriver holder is recommended to avoid losing screws and to speed up the process.
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Matthewt48
22 Jul 2023 12:15
A calm and patient approach is truly essential. I have personally dismantled several HEMNES furniture pieces and can confirm that good preparation really pays off.

- Start by removing all visible screws on the outer frame.
- Then check for joints that might be reinforced with wood glue – gentle tapping with a rubber mallet can help here.
- Avoid using force, as this can cause the veneer to crack.
- It is also advisable to organize the individual parts into clear stacks or areas and label them with brief notes (e.g., “left side panel”).

Of course, there are differences between the bed and other HEMNES furniture, but the basic principles remain the same: proceed carefully, have the right tools ready, plan well, and don’t rush.
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kain34
22 Jul 2023 13:58
Gafiel schrieb:
One question: Are you working with the original assembly instructions, or have you already taken it apart and now want to reverse it? That can affect the level of difficulty.

Thanks for asking! I still have the assembly instructions, but they are somewhat incomplete and mainly focused on building the frame. I assembled the bed frame some time ago and now want to disassemble it to prepare it for transport. That’s why I want to make the disassembly as careful and understandable as possible.

I’m especially cautious about the wooden dowels, as I want to avoid damaging them so I can reuse them. Are there any specific tips to keep them intact after disassembly?