ᐅ Which tools are unnecessary when assembling the IKEA BRIMNES?

Hello everyone, I’m currently about to assemble my new IKEA Brimnes wardrobe and wonder which tools are actually unnecessary during the process. The instructions provide a basic tool list, but you often read that some tools are completely redundant or even get in the way. So I’m curious: Which tools are absolutely essential for assembling the BRIMNES, and which can be safely left out without making the assembly more difficult? For example, a hammer is often recommended – but do I really need it, or is the Allen key sufficient? I would appreciate specific experiences that could help save time and simplify the assembly. Thanks in advance!

Hello Detlev57, I understand the feeling when you face such an assembly and first look through all the tools to see which ones are really needed. I recently assembled the BRIMNES myself and can say that the supplied Allen key is definitely sufficient for all the screws. I didn’t use the hammer at all; it was just in the way. Sometimes I think the hammer is only recommended for inserting wall plugs, but with the BRIMNES you hardly need any force or impact tools for that. If I may offer one tip: a ratchet with the appropriate bits makes screwing faster and more comfortable than the Allen key. But if you want to stick strictly to the original parts, you can probably do without the hammer and screwdriver.

floga schrieb:
I recently assembled the BRIMNES and can confirm that the included Allen wrench is definitely sufficient for all the screws.

That seems a bit too general to me. Sure, the included Allen wrench fits, but from an ergonomic perspective, it’s not always the most practical. Therefore, my suggestion is: the Allen wrench is not unnecessary, but a cordless drill with an Allen bit can significantly speed up the process and reduce effort, especially for longer screwings.

Regarding the hammer: I would propose a more nuanced view, because depending on the mounting surface (e.g., wall anchors) it can definitely be necessary. However, for assembling just the furniture itself, I would also say that a hammer is hardly required.

A hammer is definitely unnecessary for the BRIMNES. Only a screwdriver or Allen key is needed. If you prefer not to use a cordless tool, the included key will be sufficient.

In summary:
- Allen wrench (hex key): absolutely necessary and usually included in the package.
- Hammer: generally unnecessary for BRIMNES, as very few wall plugs need to be driven in. A hammer may only be useful if the unit is being attached to the wall, depending on the wall material.
- Screwdriver: only required if screws with slotted or Phillips heads are used; otherwise, it is not needed.
- Cordless or ratchet screwdriver: not mandatory, but more efficient than manual tools.

For furniture assembly without wall mounting, a hammer is practically never needed and often just gets in the way. The allen wrench remains the most important tool. This saves time and minimizes effort when assembling the BRIMNES.