The Biggest IKEA PAX Downsides To Consider Before Buying, According To TikTok

When you need to furnish your space easily and affordably, you can't go wrong with IKEA. The Swedish retailer makes an easy, ready-to-assemble version of almost any type of furniture you could possibly want to complete your home — including a custom wardrobe. The IKEA PAX wardrobe system has been taking over TikTok for the last couple of years, but there are also some downsides to consider. Limited door, drawer, and color options may affect how well you can fit it into your space, and some people find the quality and assembly process frustrating.

In short, the IKEA PAX system allows you to create a semi-custom wardrobe for your space by mixing and matching various frames, doors, drawers, shelves, rails, and so on. Ikea's PAX Planner tool is helpful for building a design and choosing which components to buy, and you can shift things around later if you like. Like most of IKEA's furniture, the PAX system is made with particleboard; it has a cardboard backing.

Many shoppers go above and beyond with various IKEA PAX hacks to make the system more functional or stylish — for example, with some extra customizations, the system can look like a built-in closet. Aside from using it as a wardrobe as intended, you can use it for storing makeup, toys, or even create an IKEA PAX entryway closet. But there are always pros and cons to consider with cheaper furniture. Here are the negatives to know before you invest in the PAX.

While TikTok is full of people raving about their customized PAX systems, others have shared complaints. One downside is that certain components have limited options available. For example, it can be difficult to find the right door size, depending on the height or width of the frame that you buy. You may have to compromise symmetry or have some open shelving. Similarly, the drawers only come in one height and two widths. The system as a whole comes in three colors: white, beige, and dark gray. If you want a different look, you'll have to do some extra work yourself.

Another downside is that the PAX doesn't have a cut-out at the bottom to sit flush to walls with baseboards. You have to cut your baseboard trim (or hire someone to do it) in order to get the PAX right up against the wall. In general, designing, assembling, and installing a PAX can be time-consuming and confusing. While the PAX planner is helpful, it can be clunky to use, meaning you may need to sketch out your own design.

Lastly, many shoppers say that newer IKEA PAX systems have a different design than they did years ago, reporting that the material is more lightweight and less sturdy. Some complain that the quality doesn't match the price, as the unit easily chips and the shelves may bow with heavier items. IKEA recommends using the unit for clothes, shoes, and accessories only.