ᐅ Which drawer slides are best suited for the Ikea Pax wardrobe?

Created on: 27 Nov 2021 08:43
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TEANSU
T
TEANSU
27 Nov 2021 08:43
Hello everyone,

I am planning to equip my Ikea Pax wardrobe with additional drawer slides to optimize space usage. Since there are many options available on the market – ranging from the original Ikea internal drawers to third-party products with soft-close functions, as well as fully custom solutions – I am wondering: which drawer slides fit best in the Ikea Pax when considering durability, load capacity, and ease of installation equally? The following aspects are especially important to me:

- compatibility with the typical internal dimensions of the Pax system,
- the possibility of smooth, dampened drawer movement,
- and straightforward retrofitting without major modifications.

What are your experiences? Are there clear recommendations or any warnings regarding specific models? Thanks in advance for your insights!
F
Fitigu
27 Nov 2021 09:17
TEANSU schrieb:
Which drawer slides fit best in the Ikea Pax, considering durability, load capacity, and ease of installation equally?

The most reliable option is the original Ikea drawer slides, as they are precisely designed for the Pax system. They offer sufficient load capacity (up to about 15 kg per drawer) and a sturdy mechanism. If you prefer soft-closing, look specifically for Ikea’s soft-close models.

Alternatively, products from Hettich or Blum are recommended, but these usually require precise adjustments since the interior dimensions of the Pax do not match standard furniture. Careful measuring before purchase is advisable.

For a simple retrofit without major modifications, I recommend sticking with Ikea-compatible slides. Installation is very straightforward thanks to the pre-drilled holes in the Pax.
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DULIS
27 Nov 2021 09:32
Ikea drawer slides almost always fit perfectly. For additional cushioning, soft-close versions are a good choice. Third-party manufacturers are an option, but measuring is essential.
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bulanau
27 Nov 2021 11:05
Additional information:

1. Check measurements: The internal width of the Pax cabinets is usually around 50 cm (approximately 20 inches), varying depending on the model. Therefore, the drawers should ideally be 48–49 cm (approximately 19–19.3 inches) wide to allow enough space for the drawer slides.

2. Soft-close vs. full-extension: The latter is especially practical as it allows you to pull the drawer out completely. Ikea offers soft-close slides with full extension, which is ideal.

3. Installation: Ikea Pax cabinets have pre-drilled holes spaced at 32 mm (about 1.25 inches), making many standard drawer slides compatible, but not all. Be sure to check the mounting system carefully.

4. Load capacity: Standard Pax drawers support up to 15 kg (33 lbs). If you plan to store heavy clothing or items, choose slides with a higher load rating—better quality options are often available from brands like Blum.

5. Alternative: Some people use drawer frames with metal runners, which can be installed as inner drawers. This increases flexibility in room design.

My advice: If you don’t want custom modifications, stick with Ikea slides. Otherwise, it is worth comparing technical specifications carefully and possibly doing a trial installation if feasible.
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FELOTAU
27 Nov 2021 13:22
bulanau schrieb:
Soft-close vs. full-extension slides: The latter are especially convenient because you can pull the drawer out completely.

That’s exactly what I missed at first – I only had standard slides installed and got frustrated every time I tried to reach the stuff at the very back. After switching to soft-close full-extension slides, using the drawers became much more comfortable.
Fitigu schrieb:
If you prefer a dampened closing, you should specifically look for the soft-close models from Ikea.

In my opinion, the investment is worth it. Even though I didn’t think it was that important at first, over time it reduces wear and improves usability. You just need to be careful which slides you choose when buying replacements to make sure they fit exactly.
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COLEBAR
27 Nov 2021 15:41
Ikea soft-close drawers are, in my opinion, the best compromise. Installation is simple, compatible, and the price is right. Third-party manufacturers often require adjustments.