ᐅ What types of screws does Ikea Hemnes use?

I really like this thread! IKEA is known for designing screws and joining techniques for mass production. But that also makes it very easy for amateurs to assemble something. The most common screws used in Hemnes are definitely - wood screws with countersunk heads, which are perfect for chipboard because they pull themselves well into the material, - cam lock screws with dowels for a stable and hidden connection, and - small machine screws, usually combined with a nut, especially for drawers or fittings. It is important that the screws do not rust, which IKEA achieves through electro-galvanization or blue chromating. For most users, this is perfectly sufficient. Of course, those who want better quality need to upgrade themselves. But considering the value for money in Hemnes, these screws are very well suited!

Hello, I’d like to briefly add something: The assembly instructions for Hemnes actually list all the screws with their names and typical dimensions. This makes it clear which screws should be used in each location.

- For the main wood-to-wood joints, 6 x 50 mm (1/4 x 2 inch) wood screws with a Phillips head are usually used – often zinc-plated.
- The cam screws with the matching dowel are specific for flat connectors, often around 15 mm (5/8 inch) long, and can be operated with an internal hex key.
- Particleboard screws of 4 x 30 mm (5/32 x 1 1/4 inch) are frequently used for thinner parts and connections with veneer boards.
- Machine screws M4 with hex or internal hex heads are used for fittings and drawer slides.

It’s useful to read the instructions carefully in case replacement screws are needed. Otherwise, just look through the packages. If the original screws are no longer available, you should at least match the length, diameter, and material, as IKEA Hemnes can sometimes be sensitive to incorrect screws.

Briefly and clearly: Hemnes mainly uses cam lock screws, zinc-plated chipboard screws 4x30 mm (0.16x1.18 inches), and furniture wood screws 6x50 mm (0.24x1.97 inches). Machine screws are used for drawer slides. Make sure to use zinc-plated or stainless steel quality if you plan to buy new ones.

thierryzar schrieb:
In short and clear: Hemnes mainly uses cam locks, galvanized chipboard screws 4x30 mm (4x1.2 inches), and furniture wood screws 6x50 mm (6x2 inches).

Thank you for this quick and concise summary! This is especially helpful as I am currently planning to order spare parts and want to make sure they are compatible. My next question is: Are there any recommended brands or materials for these types of screws that work particularly well for furniture construction with Hemnes? For example, I have read about stainless steel screws that last longer, but they usually come at a higher price. Has anyone here had experience with what material quality is worthwhile in the long term?

glalau schrieb:
Does anyone here have experience with which material quality is worthwhile in the long term?

Hello glalau, yes, I can give you a few tips on that. For Hemnes-style furniture construction, galvanized screws are generally sufficient if the furniture is placed in a dry indoor environment, which is usually the case. Galvanizing offers good corrosion protection under normal indoor humidity.

However, if the furniture is located in a room with higher humidity (e.g., bathroom, basement), it’s worth using stainless steel screws, as they are much more resistant to rust. Stainless steel is more expensive but also provides greater durability.

Brand recommendations? Many hardware stores offer screws under their own brands that are of good quality. What’s important when buying is to choose the right length, appropriate diameter, and proper head type (usually hex or Phillips). Stainless steel A2 screws are a good choice for furniture making without being excessively costly.

My advice: for visible or load-bearing joints, use better quality screws; otherwise, standard galvanized screws are perfectly fine. Hope this helps!