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How to Dismantle an IKEA Wardrobe

Whether you are moving house, redecorating, or passing furniture on, knowing how to safely dismantle an IKEA wardrobe without damaging it is essential. This guide covers PAX, HEMNES, and other common IKEA wardrobes.

Before You Start

Empty the wardrobe completely. Remove all interior fittings including drawers, shelves, hanging rails, and accessories. Take photos of the configuration before dismantling so you can reassemble correctly.

Step 1 — Remove the Doors

For hinged doors: open fully, support the bottom of the door, and lift up to disengage from the bottom hinge. For sliding doors: lift the door upward to clear the bottom track, then angle it out. Store doors flat.

Step 2 — Remove Wall Fixings

IKEA wardrobes must be wall-anchored for safety. Locate the wall fixing bracket at the top rear of the wardrobe. Unscrew the fixing bracket from the wall.

Step 3 — Remove the Top Panel

Unscrew the cam locks or screws connecting the top panel to the side panels. These are usually accessible from inside the wardrobe. Support the top panel as you remove the last fixing.

Step 4 — Separate Side Panels

Unscrew all cam locks and screws connecting the side panels to the back panel and base. Work methodically from top to bottom. The back panel on PAX wardrobes is usually stapled — slide it out from the frame.

Reassembly Tips

Label all components with masking tape as you dismantle. Keep all hardware in a labelled zip-lock bag. IKEA cam locks are reusable if treated carefully. If dowels break, IKEA provides free replacement parts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — IKEA furniture is designed to be flat-packed and can usually be dismantled and reassembled. The main risk is cam locks stripping with repeated use. Handle them carefully and replace any that are damaged.
Careful dismantling rarely causes damage. The most common issues are cam locks rounding off and the back panel tearing if forced. Handle everything carefully and it will reassemble well.
Dismantling a single PAX unit takes 30-60 minutes with the right tools. A double or triple PAX takes 1-2 hours. A professional works in roughly half the time of a DIYer.
Yes — we provide professional dismantling and reassembly services across the UK. This is particularly useful when moving house with multiple pieces of IKEA furniture. Request a quote for dismantling services.
Yes — keep instructions with the furniture. If lost, all IKEA assembly instructions are available free to download from the IKEA website by searching the product name or article number.

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