Storage Accessories That Can Refresh Your IKEA KALLAX And Get You Organized

When it comes to bulky storage pieces, you need to get creative with the ways you utilize the space, finding the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetics. The IKEA KALLAX system, with its modular design and spacious 13 ¼ by 13 ¼-inch cubes, has become a popular solution for organizing everyday items in a wide range of spaces. Its simplicity and versatility make it one of the best strategies for decluttering your space. However, to truly unlock the potential of this adaptable storage unit, you may need to think outside the box. Although IKEA offers various best-selling KALLAX accessories for organization and storage, exploring non-IKEA options can help you customize your KALLAX system in a way that best suits your individual storage needs. To truly make the most of it, consider looking beyond the IKEA catalog.

Non-IKEA accessories offer endless possibilities to personalize and optimize your KALLAX system without being bound by official IKEA products. These alternatives allow you to transform clutter to your specific needs, whether it's a cabinet door attachment or a small cat hideaway tucked between your other storage. These creative options will certainly elevate your shelves in a bold way, creating new means of storing your everyday items. Here are some useful organization tools you might need for your KALLAX storage system.

Although it might sound like a simple solution, various shelf inserts can truly transform your organization. There are a ton of best-selling accessories available directly through IKEA for your KALLAX storage system. However, plenty of aftermarket additions for your KALLAX shelves can incorporate a bit of personalized storage into your organization. Better Homes & Gardens has a wide array of shelf inserts that fit inside the cubes, allowing you to completely customize each cube to your own individual storage needs. Unlike the IKEA variant, these inserts are available in two colors, white and tobacco oak, adding a pop of color to your white shelving system. They are also fairly cheap, ranging between $10 to $20 per insert, creating an affordable opportunity for functionality. Before buying, ensure you know the dimensions of your cubes for the right fit. 

These inserts come in a whole host of different shapes and sizes that make customized storage simple and accessible. Walmart's H Shelf Cube Organizer Insert separates each cube horizontally, allowing you to display smaller decor items like books and knick-knacks without needing to fill a large space. This shelf can be placed vertically or horizontally, further personalizing your storage. Additionally, the X Shelf Insert transforms your square cube storage into four separate triangles that can be used to store various bottles and assorted clutter. Another notable insert that enhances any kitchen storage system is the Bottle Storage Insert, creating nine different compartments in a single cube. With these inserts, you can completely customize how you use your KALLAX shelves, transforming the furniture piece from a basic home addition to a storage essential.

The open design of each cube leaves much to be desired for your KALLAX system, especially when they're filled with clutter. So why not convert your simple set of shelves into a mock credenza by adding cabinet door facings to each cube? Adding doors can hide clutter behind a polished exterior, creating a more refined look that's perfect for living rooms, dining rooms, or entryways. While these can be an excellent pick to match the overall look of the KALLAX shelves, they might not hit all the marks in terms of your own personal style.

Outside of official IKEA options, there are a number of notable 13-inch cabinet inserts. Available through Amazon, handwoven wicker cabinet doors can bring a boho-inspired feel to your KALLAX shelves, hiding your storage with a chic upgrade. The AELS 13" Natural Fiber doors come in a pack of three that will cost around $10 per unit, an affordable price for a simple yet stunning transformation. Beyond cabinet alternatives, many vinyl decals can transform the look of your existing cabinet inserts. On Etsy, the designs range from faux herringbone and marble to floral and geometric patterns. They are easily applied to the facing of your cabinet doors, providing a whole new world of customization for your KALLAX shelves.

Sprucing up your KALLAX storage system is all about adding a bit of texture and functionality to your space. One classic pick is incorporating wicker baskets into your shelves, whether they're a recent purchase or a thrifted find. IKEA sells woven baskets that fit securely into each cube, known as LABBSAL. These baskets allow you to securely hide your assorted clutter with style, but they can be a bit of an investment at $22 per basket. Instead, opt for alternative hyacinth baskets, like the Cassafield 10 ½-inch storage baskets, which costs $49 for a four-pack at Walmart. If you want something that fits a bit more securely into your cubes, try these 12-inch Water Hyacinth Storage Baskets from Amazon—running $57 for a pack of three. There is certainly no shortage of options when it comes to finding the right baskets to spruce up your KALLAX cubes.

For something more unique, try repurposing some thrift store finds into stylish storage, specifically using wicker baskets in varying sizes. They are a fairly cheap addition to your space, only costing a few dollars each, and work wonders in creating individualized storage. Shorter baskets not only hold smaller items of clutter, but they also create an interesting visual contrast amongst your shelves. Larger baskets, similar to those sold by IKEA, can be used to hide larger items like children's toys. With a mix-and-matched style, you create an interesting visual display on your shelves.

Cats love to find their way into a cozy hiding place, snuggling up in all kinds of inconvenient spots. If your feline friend seems to prefer sleeping in your KALLAX system, why not give them a designated cube that makes your space a bit more pet-friendly with a simple insert? By creating a space for your pet, you save yourself the trouble of having to reorganize when they inevitably knock over your clutter. There are a number of sellers that provide customized cat houses that fit exactly within the cube of the KALLAX shelf. IKEA's own cat house is made from rigid fiberboard, the same material as the shelf—hardly a cozy spot for your kitten. Instead, opt for a KALLAX insert cat bed made of soft felt from Etsy. The circular opening in the front makes it easy for your furry friend to come and go as they please, while the felt provides a comfy resting area.

If you're still worried about matching the aesthetic of your space, another solid option for a cat home is the Emmely Nest Pet Bed on Wayfair. Made from woven hyacinth, this home not only provides a cozy atmosphere for your feline friend but also creates a chic display when paired with other woven basket options. You can easily blend it into your other shelving accessories so it doesn't stand out amongst your storage, matching the vibe perfectly.