Looking for clever storage ideas that won’t break the bank? The IKEA Bekväm spice rack is a versatile solution that goes beyond the kitchen. With its simple design and affordable price, it’s no surprise UK homeowners are transforming these shelves into customisable storage units.
These compact racks are perfect for small spaces, offering a budget-friendly alternative to expensive shelving. Parents love using them as outward-facing bookshelves in nurseries, while renters appreciate their damage-free mounting options.
The real beauty lies in their adaptability. Whether you need extra organisation in a home office or a stylish display for cosmetics, these racks deliver. Their neutral colour and sturdy build make them ideal for various DIY projects.
Key Takeaways
- Affordable alternative to custom shelving units
- Easy to adapt for multiple rooms and purposes
- Space-saving solution for compact UK homes
- Simple to mount without damaging walls
- Customisable with paint or decorative touches
Turn IKEA Spice Racks into Adorable Children’s Bookshelves
Parents across the UK are discovering a clever way to display children’s books affordably. The Bekväm spice racks, originally designed for kitchens, make perfect outward-facing shelves for little readers. Their compact size fits snugly in narrow spaces, turning unused walls into vibrant reading corners.
Supplies You’ll Need
Gather these essentials for a smooth project:
- Bekväm spice racks (2-3 for a staggered look)
- Rust-Oleum primer & colour spray paint (matt white works well)
- 220-grit sanding sponge for a smooth finish
- Measuring tape and a board book (like The Very Hungry Caterpillar) for spacing
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting and Mounting
IKEA’s pine absorbs paint quickly, so preparation is key. Follow this table for flawless results:
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| Step | Action | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lightly sand surfaces | Wipe dust with a damp cloth afterwards |
| 2 | Apply 3 thin primer coats | Sand lightly between layers |
| 3 | Spray-paint in a well-ventilated area | Hold the can 20cm away to avoid drips |
For mounting, use the included hardware or recommended alternatives if your walls are tricky. Period homes often need plaster plugs for stability.
Tips for Spacing and Accessibility
Space shelves 14 inches apart—measured with a board book—to fit most children’s titles. One mum in Yorkshire noted how her toddler could reach the lower shelf even during a snowfall, when indoor play was essential.
Position the lowest shelf 30cm from the floor for tiny hands. Each rack holds 4-5 books, but adjust as your child’s collection grows.
Hang a Spice Rack Without Drilling: A Renter-Friendly Hack
Transform your walls without losing your deposit. For renters or those wary of permanent fixtures, adhesive hooks offer a damage-free way to mount shelves. They’re ideal for spice racks, turning blank walls into functional spaces.
Materials for a No-Drill Fix
You’ll need:
- 3M Command Sawtooth Picture Hangers (holds 1.8kg per hook)
- A flathead screwdriver (to adjust rack slots)
- Rubbing alcohol (to clean the wall surface)
How to Use 3M Command Hooks
Follow these steps for secure mounting:
- Clean the wall with alcohol to remove dust.
- Flip the rack’s slots upward using a screwdriver for better hook fit.
- Press the adhesive hook firmly for 30 seconds.
A Montreal flat-dweller shared how this method survived a year of humid summers without slipping.
Ensuring Stability and Safety
Wait 1 hour before loading the rack. Test with lightweight items first, like toiletries or small books. Avoid glass jars until confident—one user reported broken spices after skipping this step.
Top tip: For painted walls, choose hooks labelled for smooth surfaces. In period homes with uneven plaster, double up hooks for extra support.
Organise Your Space with Pegboard and Spice Racks
Struggling to keep your workspace tidy without sacrificing style? Pairing pegboards with Bekväm shelves creates a dynamic storage system. This combo maximises vertical space, perfect for cramped home offices or craft corners.
Creating a Customisable Desk Area
Mount a pegboard above an IKEA trestle table for a cohesive look. Use hooks for scissors, washi tape, or headphones—keeping essentials within reach. A London-based freelancer reported a 30% productivity boost after adopting this setup.
Adjust shelf heights to fit bulkier items like binders or paint pots. For a mint-green scheme, try Farrow & Ball’s “Borrowed Light” on the shelves—it complements most pegboard colours.
Painting and Styling the Racks
Sand and prime shelves before painting for a smooth finish. Use the colour-drenching technique (walls and shelves in the same hue) for a modern idea. “It made my tiny home office feel twice as big,” shared a Brighton DIYer.
Ideal for Kids’ Rooms or Home Offices
In kids’ zones, lower the shelves for toy or book storage. Adults might prefer tool organisers or skincare displays. Pro tip: Label pegboard hooks with washi tape for easy reconfiguration as needs change.
More Creative IKEA Spice Rack Hacks to Try
Discover fresh ways to maximise space with these clever shelf transformations. Whether you’re sprucing up a kitchen or organising a bathroom, these ideas blend functionality with flair.
Window Display Shelves
Turn unused window ledges into thriving herb gardens. The Bekväm’s compact size fits snugly beneath most kitchen window frames. A Bristol homeowner shared how their basil and thyme thrived in these sunlit spots.
For a cohesive look, pair with IKEA’s 365+ plant pots. Ensure drainage by adding pebbles beneath soil. This setup works equally well for succulents in well-lit living rooms.
Mini Picture Ledges
Create a rotating gallery wall using narrow ledges. Their 12cm depth perfectly holds picture frames or postcards. Use two racks stacked vertically for a staggered display.
| Display Type | Recommended Items | Styling Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Family photos | 4×6″ frames | Mix black-and-white with colour |
| Art prints | Postcards | Use washi tape for easy swaps |
| Vinyl records | 45 RPM singles | Lean against wall for retro vibe |
Bathroom Storage Solutions
Store toiletries elegantly with humidity-resistant shelves. Mount near the sink for easy access to daily essentials. Pro tip: Coat the shelf with waterproof varnish to prevent moisture damage.
- Jewellery organisation: Hang necklaces from small hooks on a dressing table ledge.
- Coordinated baskets: Use matching woven bins to corral cotton wool or hair ties.
- Safety note: Avoid placing glass bottles on high shelves in steamy bathrooms.
Conclusion
Need a budget-friendly way to upgrade your home storage? The Bekväm shelves prove you don’t need pricey retail units to stay organised. At a fraction of the cost, they offer endless customisation ideas—from nursery book displays to bathroom essentials.
Experiment with layouts and colours to suit your space. Parents love the top hack of turning them into children’s bookshelves, but don’t stop there. Repurposing also cuts waste, making it a win for your wallet and the planet.
Ready to start? Grab your IKEA spice rack here. Share your creations with #DIYKallax—we’d love to see them!
Always check weight limits for adhesive mounts. Stay tuned for our Ribba vs. Bekväm showdown next week!
FAQ
Can I use IKEA Bekväm racks for children’s books?
Absolutely! These small shelves are perfect for storing kids’ books. Mount them at a low height for easy access, and paint them in bright colours for a playful look.
How can I hang a spice rack without drilling holes?
Use 3M Command Hooks for a damage-free solution. Stick them securely to the wall and slot the rack into place. This works well for rented spaces.
What’s the best way to arrange multiple racks on a wall?
Space them evenly, about 25-30cm apart, depending on what you’re storing. For books, keep them closer together; for décor, spread them out.
Can I paint the Bekväm racks to match my room?
Yes! Sand them lightly first, then use chalk or acrylic paint for a smooth finish. Add a clear sealant for extra durability.
Are these racks sturdy enough for bathroom storage?
With a waterproof finish, they work well for small toiletries. Avoid placing heavy items, and ensure they’re mounted securely.
Can I use them as mini picture ledges?
Definitely! They’re great for displaying small frames, prints, or postcards. Just lean them against the back for a snug fit.
What’s the weight limit for these shelves?
They hold around 2-3kg when properly secured. Stick to lightweight items like books, plants, or small décor.
How do I clean the racks if they get dusty?
Wipe them with a damp cloth. For painted racks, avoid harsh cleaners to prevent chipping.