How to Fix a Wobbly IKEA Wardrobe

Why IKEA Wardrobes Wobble

The most common causes: the wardrobe is not wall anchored (the most serious), cam locks have not been tightened fully, the floor is uneven causing the wardrobe to rock, or the back panel is not seated correctly in its grooves.

Check the Wall Anchor — Priority First

Every IKEA tall wardrobe must be secured to the wall. Locate the wall anchor bracket at the top rear of the wardrobe. If it is not fixed to the wall, this is your first and most urgent fix. Drill into a wall stud or use appropriate wall anchors for your wall type.

Tightening Cam Locks

Partially tightened cam locks are the second most common cause of wobble. Open the wardrobe doors and inspect all visible cam locks. Each cam lock should be turned clockwise until firm. Do not overtighten.

Levelling the Wardrobe

Most IKEA wardrobes have adjustable feet. Using a spirit level, adjust each foot until the wardrobe stands perfectly vertical. A wardrobe that is not level will always feel unstable and doors will swing on their own.

Fixing the Back Panel

The back panel on PAX wardrobes is thin but provides structural stability when correctly fitted into the grooves. If it has bowed or come out of its grooves, remove everything from the wardrobe and carefully reseat the panel.

When to Call a Professional

If the wardrobe continues to wobble after wall anchoring and tightening, or if the structure appears significantly distorted, it may have been incorrectly assembled. A professional assembler can dismantle and correctly rebuild it.