ᐅ What to do if Ikea Platsa screws don’t grip?

Good morning everyone,

I am currently assembling my new Ikea Platsa wardrobe and have the following problem: some of the included screws don’t grip at all in the pre-drilled material; they just spin without tightening anything. This mainly affects the deeper cabinet elements. I have already checked whether I am using the screws in the correct spots and whether the material is damaged or incorrectly pre-drilled, but I can’t find any issues. Does anyone have any ideas on what I can do if the Platsa screws do not hold? I would appreciate any tips on screw types, procedures, or alternative solutions. Thanks in advance!

Hey Nderim69,

I know that problem! Sometimes Ikea particle boards just aren’t the best when it comes to durability. Try filling the holes with a bit of wood glue and then screw in the screws – that gives better grip.

If you want it to be especially sturdy, insert a small dowel (wood or plastic) first and then screw in. That way, you basically create a solid base for the screw. Good luck with the screwing!

Hello Nderim69,

If the screws do not hold, it is often because the material at the screw point is too soft or swollen. I recommend the following approach:

- Remove the screw and check the hole for damage
- If the hole has become too large, you can fill it, for example with wood wool and wood glue or small wood chips, pressing them firmly into the hole
- Let it dry thoroughly (at least 2 hours)
- Then use screws with a larger diameter or pre-drill the hole with a smaller drill bit before screwing in

This way you can achieve a precise and secure connection. Good luck!

Try rubbing the screw with wax or soap beforehand. This makes it easier to drive in and prevents slipping. Also, check if the screws are still the original ones.

barEsperan schrieb:
Try rubbing the screw with wax or soap beforehand.

Exactly, I know that too! It allows faster turning without damaging the board, which really helps in some cases. But if the screws don’t bite at all, you usually need the wood shaving method or dowels. Soap alone isn’t a cure-all, but it’s great for improving torque.

The Platsa components are made of particleboard with decorative foil, which can be somewhat softer in certain areas. If screws strip out, this may indicate holes drilled too large or the wrong screw size.

Suggested solutions:
- Fill the hole with wood wool and wood glue, then let it dry
- Pre-drill a new hole with a smaller drill bit and reinsert the screw
- Alternatively, insert a plastic anchor (wall plug) that fits the hole and screw into it

This will make the connection mechanically more stable.