ᐅ What tools do I need for the perfect IKEA Besta assembly?

Created on: 3 May 2016 11:23
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sinsau
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sinsau
3 May 2016 11:23
Hello everyone,

I am about to assemble several IKEA Besta cabinets in my living room and want to make the assembly as efficient and tidy as possible. Therefore, I am specifically interested in which tools are truly necessary for the perfect IKEA Besta assembly.

I know the basics like screwdrivers and a hammer, but I would like to know if there are any special tools that significantly ease the assembly or even make it essential – for example, cordless drills with specific bits, angle guides, or other practical aids. It would also be helpful to learn which tools are recommended for wall mounting and whether special materials are advisable for different wall types.

Thanks in advance for your tips!
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Sinzar
3 May 2016 12:07
For the Besta, you mainly need a Phillips screwdriver, ideally a cordless drill to save time. A hammer is useful for wall plugs. For wall mounting, a hammer drill and appropriate wall plugs are required, depending on the wall type.
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Lance
3 May 2016 13:45
I would like to go into more detail about the tool selection for assembling the IKEA Besta, as many people make small mistakes that cause problems later on.

- Screwdriver: A cordless drill with adjustable torque is truly invaluable. It prevents over-tightening screws and damaging the material.
- Bits: You need Phillips screwdriver bits (usually PH2). Torx bits are also very helpful if used.
- Hammer: For wooden dowels or to make attaching the back panel easier.
- Angle finder or a small spirit level: This ensures everything is perfectly level, both during assembly and when mounting on the wall.
- For wall mounting: Depending on the type of wall, a hammer drill with masonry or metal drill bits and suitable anchors (e.g., expansion anchors for concrete or universal anchors for drywall) are necessary. A matching hex key, usually supplied by IKEA, is important as well, but having an extra one can sometimes be useful.

My recommendation: Have all your tools ready before you start assembling. Pay special attention to whether your wall is drywall or a solid wall, as the choice of anchors is crucial.

For long-term stability, check the screw connections again after a few weeks, especially if you load the cabinet heavily.

If you plan to rearrange the Besta frequently, a small ratchet adapter for the cordless drill can save a lot of time.
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sinsau
4 May 2016 09:14
Lance schrieb:
For wall mounting: Depending on the wall type, a hammer drill with a masonry or metal drill bit is needed, along with suitable wall plugs (e.g., Fischer plugs for concrete or universal plugs for drywall). A matching Allen key is also important; IKEA usually includes one, but having an extra can be helpful.

Thank you for the detailed advice.

I have a concrete wall, so I definitely need a hammer drill. Are there any specific wall plugs for concrete that you would recommend, or are standard universal plugs sufficient? Also, what about the spacing between the mounting points to ensure stability? Has anyone had experience with how securely the Besta should be fixed to the wall?
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SARBLA1
4 May 2016 11:38
Hello sinsau,

For concrete walls, Fischer SX or UX anchors are highly recommended; they provide reliable support and are easy to install. Make sure to drill the holes cleanly and straight with the correct drill bit (usually 6 or 8 mm (about 1/4 or 5/16 inch), depending on the anchor size) – this ensures the best load capacity.

Regarding the spacing of the mounting points: IKEA typically recommends securing each cabinet in the Besta line to the wall at least in two places. For longer units or multiple cabinets placed side by side, it’s advisable to fix each individual element. The anchors should not be placed too close together; about 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) apart is ideal to distribute the load evenly.

A tip: use a spirit level to align the mounting brackets precisely, which will help you avoid problems with crooked cabinets after installation.

If you have any questions about tool selection, just ask!
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Sinzar
4 May 2016 14:26
sinsau schrieb:
Are there special anchors for concrete that you can recommend, or are regular universal anchors good enough?

Regular universal anchors are often sufficient, but for maximum safety, it's better to use Fischer anchors specifically designed for concrete. It will save you trouble with stability.