Why Some People Regret Buying The IKEA BYAKORRE Shelf

It wasn't too long ago that design enthusiasts were buzzing about the discontinued IKEA ENETRI shelf making a comeback in 2025, but reactions have grown more divided since it hit the market. It's not the first time this iconic shelf has been re-released. The original production came out in the 1980s as the GUIDE shelf and was brought back as the ENETRI twice since 2002, before its latest debut in February 2025 as the BYAKORRE shelf. While it's only been sporadically available in IKEA stores over the years, this piece has always maintained its relevance as a beloved IKEA design. However, this year's release may have threatened its good standing — both figuratively and literally. Many customers have been voicing their regret of purchasing IKEA's BYAKORRE shelf, mainly noting the design's clear lack of stability.

The negative response has been so widespread that IKEA recently put a halt to all global sales of the BYAKORRE after growing complaints from customers about its safety and utility. Considering the shelf's massive notoriety, the backlash hasn't been subtle, and now thousands of unhappy customers are left wondering what to do about their faulty BYAKORRE shelves.

Cult fans of the ENETRI shelf have been eagerly anticipating its return to IKEA stores, so it was no surprise when it quickly sold out after the release under a new name. However, the excitement died down once reviews started rolling in — leaving the BYAKORRE with an average rating of 1.8/5 stars. All of the negative reviews reflected a similar sentiment, claiming the shelf was unstable. Certain reviewers deemed the design "beautiful but flawed" and "the biggest disappointment" in reference to the shelf's lack of stability. Many reviews went into detail on the issue, with one mentioning that, "the bars that are meant to hold up the boards are too short and therefore the moment you get it upright or place any object on it, the bars pop out from their slot/housing and the boards fall down without fail" — an experience that was strongly echoed in the other reviews.

YouTube creator outside influenced delved into their regrets about purchasing the shelf, noting that the biggest flaw from the BYAKORRE shelf is where it differs from the ENETRI version. He explains that with the ENETRI, the metal bars were welded to the frame, but the BYAKORRE bars are separate and meant to twist in place, without fasteners or screws to keep them stable. While news of a recall has been discussed by shoppers, the company has made no official announcement, but has responded to a few negative reviews, citing IKEA's return policy.

The poor quality of the BYAKORRE feels like a harsher disappointment than most, as many have been waiting to get their hands on the iconic design since the last ENETRI reissue in 2018. Now that these shoppers finally have the shelf, its wobbly frame has them too worried to display their precious items on it, fearing they might fall. Rather than returning the shelf and accepting the disappointment, some shoppers may be willing to find a replacement instead. Plus, there's always the option to get a little crafty and DIY a replica of the beloved ENETRI shelf yourself.

One option to replace a wobbly BYAKORRE shelf is to try your luck by searching online marketplaces for vintage editions of the ENETRI, but you'll likely have to pay a much higher price due to its rarity. If that's too much of a hassle, it might be worth considering some dupes that offer a similar style. On Amazon, the Main + Mesa Eitri Wood and Metal Adjustable Shelving Unit has an appeal very reminiscent of the ENETRI and a budget-friendly price tag of $89. If you prefer a more modern finish, the Hardev Bookcase from Wayfair has a sleek black and white design with a similar structure. There are even some high-end options, like the Azzura Black Metal and Wood Bookshelf from CB2, but with a price of $1,299, it may be more worth it to hunt down an original from resellers.