ᐅ Which tool is best suited for tightening on the KALLAX?

Hello everyone, I have a question that has been on my mind for a while: What is the best tool to tighten the screws on an IKEA KALLAX shelf?

I’m mainly concerned with tightening the screws so that the shelf remains stable and secure, without damaging anything from overtightening.

Has anyone had experience whether it’s better to use a traditional screwdriver, a cordless drill with torque control, a hex key (Allen wrench), or maybe a special tool?

I would appreciate detailed opinions and tips, especially if you could include advice on being careful with the material when tightening.

I completely understand that you don’t want to use just any tool, since the wood in KALLAX can get damaged easily.

Personally, I almost always finish with a Phillips screwdriver, but I hold the screw very gently and pay attention to when it’s tight enough. Sometimes it feels a bit uncertain whether that’s sufficient, but I don’t want to apply more pressure.

I think your idea of a cordless drill with torque control is great, and I’ll have to try that myself. But for my previous shelves, a gentle screwdriver has always been my choice.

Basically, using a cordless screwdriver with adjustable torque is the most effective way to properly tighten the screws.

Especially with furniture made of particleboard, as is the case with KALLAX, too much force can quickly cause the material to tear out or get damaged.

I recommend setting the torque to a moderate level and first tightening the screw slightly by hand, then finishing with the cordless screwdriver.

A hex key is usually less suitable because the KALLAX adapters and screws mostly have a Phillips head.

A medium-strength Phillips screwdriver is sufficient. Use a cordless drill on a low torque setting. You won’t need a hex key for the KALLAX.

I prefer to tighten the screws by hand using a magnetic Phillips screwdriver. This way, you can precisely feel when they are tight enough.

A cordless screwdriver with torque control is most recommended. The material in the KALLAX is delicate, so do not tighten too much.