ᐅ What repairs can I carry out myself on IKEA Hemnes furniture?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought some IKEA Hemnes furniture and have noticed that in daily use they already show minor damages—such as loose screws, chipped corners, or squeaky drawers. I am therefore interested in which repairs I can carry out on Hemnes furniture myself without having to hire a professional or replace the entire piece. I am especially looking for tips on common issues like:

- The best way to repair damaged wood corners or edges
- What to do about squeaky or stiff drawers
- How to securely fix loose or fallen-out screws or dowels
- Whether it’s possible to replace fittings or hinges yourself

Has anyone had experience with DIY repairs on Hemnes furniture? I would appreciate specific advice or recommendations on suitable tools and materials. Thanks in advance!

Loose or squeaky drawers can be easily treated with some wax or candle wax on the drawer slides. Tighten screws again or use new, suitable screws. For broken wooden edges, wood filler or repair wax can help. You can replace fittings yourself if you have the correct replacement part.

Regarding the question of which repairs can be done by yourself on IKEA Hemnes furniture, the following can be said: Hemnes furniture is made of solid wood components that are fairly easy to repair for DIY enthusiasts with some basic craftsmanship skills. Typical DIY repairs include:

- Tightening or replacing screws and dowels that loosen with use
- Repairing minor chips or scratches using wood filler or wood wax sticks
- Lubricating and cleaning drawer slides to eliminate squeaking noises
- Replacing fittings such as hinges or handles, provided the appropriate spare parts are available

For larger cracks or structural damage, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Recommended tools include a cordless drill, wood glue, putty knife, sandpaper, and if needed, a wood repair kit.

I would like to add: Many components of Hemnes furniture are designed to make regular maintenance and minor repairs relatively easy. It is important to carefully inspect the furniture before attempting any repairs and to have the correct replacement parts and tools ready.

Here’s what has worked well for me:

- For broken wooden corners, you can use wood filler, then smooth it with sandpaper and, if needed, treat it with color-matched wood varnish or wax.
- Squeaky drawers can often be fixed by cleaning the sliding tracks and applying dry lubricants such as silicone spray or candle wax—avoid using oil, as it attracts dust.
- Loose screws can simply be tightened with a suitable screwdriver, or if the wood around the screw is damaged, you can replace dowels or use wood glue.
- Hinges and handles can be quickly replaced with standard tools. IKEA offers replacement parts, and separate assembly instructions are often available online.

As always: exercise caution with major damage or if the furniture is heavily loaded.

parpeo schrieb:
For chipped wooden corners, you can use wood filler, then smooth it with sandpaper and, if needed, treat it with color-matched wood varnish or wax.

That is true, but honestly: most people don’t want to spend hours sanding and varnishing. For me, the question is more: when is it even worth repairing a cheaper piece of furniture like Hemnes? Maybe it’s better to accept that Hemnes furniture is quite vulnerable to daily use. I personally prefer to replace a part entirely rather than spend time doing patchwork.

What also bothers me is the use of cheap materials in some parts, which limits repair options in the long run.

Connor schrieb:
Personally, I’d rather just replace a part completely than spend time on patchwork.

I totally get that, but it doesn’t mean you can’t tackle some repairs yourself now and then! The Hemnes series, for example, is quite sturdy, and with a bit of DIY skill and the right materials, you can handle a lot on your own. Sure, fixing corners takes effort, but hey – “DIY makes you happy”! And silencing squeaky drawers with candle wax is quick and easy.

My advice:

- Definitely get the right replacement parts; they’re often available as individual pieces
- Obtain wood filler in the matching color
- Use only dry lubricant—not oil—for the drawers

I think these kinds of repairs make the furniture feel even more personal.