IKEA Kallax Hacks: Changing Table and More
As many of us turn to home DIY projects, customising furniture is high on the agenda. The simple flat-pack nature of IKEA products makes them perfect for upcycling, and one of the most popular creations is baby and children's products, particularly when parents want something more personalised.
The Kallax (Expedit) unit
The IKEA Kallax is conventionally sold as a stylish, simple shelving unit with many storage compartments, also known as the Expedit in some markets. It can be placed on the floor (the most popular option) or mounted on the wall. With large flat sides and a stable design that rests on the floor while sitting flush to a wall, it's a popular choice for parents wanting to DIY a secure changing table.
Making a changing table
- Turn the unit longways and check it fits your space. Source a pine slab matching the top (147cm x 77cm), stacking two or three slabs glued together to raise the height, and leave to dry for around 24 hours.
- Sand the wood on top and sides so there are no sharp edges or splinters.
- Attach angled wall brackets to the upper inner sides, position the unit, and secure it to the wall with heavy-duty screws.
- Order a foam mat with our cut to size tool – a medium-high density polyurethane foam around 5cm to 7cm thick. A typical mat is 76cm x 45cm x 5cm; add 10cm to the length and width for a larger one.
- Cover the mat in a waterproof, PVC-like material, then attach Velcro straps to the underside and the wood topper to hold it in place.
Storage and seating ideas
As the Kallax offers plenty of storage, you might order hollow foam cube boxes as a child-friendly storage solution – made from incredibly high-density closed-cell foam, they keep their shape even when filled with nappies and wet wipes. There are many other ways to revamp the unit too: one of our customers used a Kallax and high-firm foam cut to size to create a fantastic seating area in her child's playroom. Our guide to soft-play and playpen foam has more child-safe ideas, and for another seating project, see our foam bench hack.
Contact our friendly team of advisers today if you need foam for your DIY projects.
Frequently asked questions
Can you make a changing table from an IKEA Kallax?
Yes. Turn the unit longways, add a pine top to raise the height, sand it smooth and wall-mount it securely, then top it with a covered foam changing mat held in place with Velcro straps.
What foam is best for a changing mat?
A medium-high density polyurethane foam around 5cm to 7cm thick. A typical changing mat is 76cm long, 45cm wide and 5cm deep, though you can add 10cm to the length and width to better fit your table.
What is the IKEA Kallax unit also called?
The Kallax is also known as the Expedit in some markets. It can be placed on the floor (the most popular option) or mounted on the wall.
