ᐅ Which BILLY versions are more prone to scratches?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to get a Billy bookshelf from IKEA and am looking into which of the BILLY versions in their range tend to be more prone to scratches. I am not only referring to the different materials like wood veneer, melamine, or paint finish but also to the various color options, for example, the classic white compared to the darker or natural shades.

I would be interested to know if there are any experiences or clear indications of which surface types show visible signs of wear like scratches more frequently with heavy use. It would also be very helpful to hear whether certain paint finishes are more durable than others or if veneered surfaces sometimes appear more robust.

I look forward to your assessments and experiences to make a well-informed purchasing decision.

Hello Greta,

In my experience, the white BILLY shelves with melamine are quite prone to scratches because the surface is not particularly durable. The darker versions with veneer are more robust but still show scratches from sharp objects fairly quickly.

Hello Greta,

I can add to that: From my observation, painted BILLY models tend to be slightly less prone to minor surface scratches compared to veneered or melamine-coated versions, since the paint provides at least an additional protective layer. However, this also depends heavily on the exact type of paint used; “satin” or “high gloss” finishes differ in scratch resistance.

Also, white surfaces tend to show scratches more clearly, while scratches are often less noticeable on darker colors with grain patterns. For heavy use, I recommend choosing the version with a melamine resin surface or an additional protective film.

SONLIS schrieb:
painted BILLY models are somewhat less prone to minor surface scratches than veneered or melamine-coated versions

That's true, I can confirm that 100%. I bought a BILLY in dark oak with a painted finish two years ago. Of course, it’s not indestructible, but the paint does a pretty good job protecting against the occasional scratch.

The classic white one? I’d say you’d have to be a superhero or never put anything on it to avoid scratches. 😉

Great topic – thanks for bringing it up, Greta! 😊

Additional information:

The surfaces of BILLY shelves are generally thin due to manufacturing processes, regardless of the material, so scratches are a risk with all versions. Melamine-coated surfaces are entirely made of plastic and tend to show scratches only superficially. Veneers, on the other hand, consist of thin layers of real wood, where scratches penetrate the material more quickly.

Paint coatings can offer some protection depending on the type, but they are not resistant to sharp or pointed objects.

Summary: The white melamine BILLY shelves show scratches more clearly, while darker veneered versions are visually more forgiving. However, the actual resistance is determined more by the material than by the color.

Greta schrieb:
Which of the BILLY variants from their range tend to be more prone to scratches?

I would like to add that care and handling are at least as important as the choice of material. Avoid harsh cleaning agents and use soft cloths. Scratches often occur through everyday use, for example when loading items or if the surface comes into contact with sharp objects.

kieran schrieb:
Paint finishes can provide some protection depending on the type, but they are not completely resistant to sharp or pointed objects.

That is important to know. It is also advisable to follow IKEA’s recommendations regarding surface treatment. Ultimately, there is no completely scratch-proof model, but proper handling and, if necessary, protective pads can significantly reduce wear.

If you have decided on a specific variant, I’d be happy to offer you further care tips :-)