IKEA is a haven for budget-friendly furniture, but for parents of little ones, it becomes a playground for creative hacks!
From maximizing storage to crafting dream play areas, IKEA pieces offer endless possibilities to personalize your child’s bedroom.
Here are 25 inspiring hacks to spark your imagination and transform your kid’s space:
Storage Solutions for Tiny Treasures:
KALLAX cubed glory:
The ever-versatile KALLAX shelving unit takes center stage. Add colorful bins and dividers for toys, books, and clothes. Paint the back panels with chalkboard paint for a creative message board.
Trofast under-bed storage:
Utilize wasted space! Trofast plastic bins fit perfectly under IKEA beds like the Kura or Stuva. Slide them in and out for easy access to toys and out-of-season clothes.
Skadis pegboard power:
This versatile pegboard system is a lifesaver. Mount it on the wall and add hooks, shelves, and baskets for displaying toys, hats, and bags. Create a designated art supply station with Skadis pegboard shelves.
Stuva bed with storage drawers:
This ingenious bed boasts built-in drawers at the base. Perfect for storing clothes, bedding, and bulkier toys, it keeps the room clutter-free.
Stackable shoe rack surprise:
Don’t just use shoe racks for shoes! The slender design of the Tjusig shoe rack makes it ideal for storing dolls, stuffed animals, or board games in a kid’s room.
Playful Touches for Growing Minds:
Kura bed transformation:
The iconic Kura bed is a blank canvas for creativity. Transform it into a pirate ship, a cozy reading nook, or a playhouse with some paint, fabric panels, and fairy lights.
Play kitchen revamp:
Spruce up the iconic Duktig play kitchen with removable wallpaper or contact paper. Add knobs, handles, and even a miniature sink for a more realistic feel.
MOSSlanda picture ledge creativity:
This ledge isn’t just for pictures! Mount it horizontally and use it as a dollhouse shelf or a display area for favorite toys and artwork.
Teepee time with textiles:
Throw a cozy blanket over a clothes rack like the Mussel for an instant teepee. Decorate with fairy lights and cushions for a magical reading nook or play space.
Plush comfort with Ektorp footstools:
These comfy footstools double as extra seating or a reading nook for little ones. Pile on soft cushions and throws for a playful reading haven.
Lighting and Decor on a Budget:
Paper lanterns makeover:
Liven up plain paper lanterns with paint, glitter, or patterned washi tape. String them together for a whimsical bedroom chandelier.
Raskog cart as a bedside table:
The Raskog utility cart offers storage and a flat surface next to the bed. Decorate it with baskets for bedtime essentials and a small lamp for a charming bedside setup.
Ikea PS picture frames for a gallery wall:
Create a personalized gallery wall with mismatched IKEA picture frames. Fill them with photos, artwork, or even DIY fabric wall hangings.
Kryssligt lampshades for a pop of color:
Paint or dye plain white Kryssligt lampshades for a splash of color and personality. Use stencils for patterns or let your child’s creativity run wild.
Ribba picture ledges for books & toys:
Repurpose Ribba picture ledges as floating shelves. Decorate them with children’s books, stuffed animals, or small potted plants.
Smart Upgrades for Growing Needs:
Extendable beds for the future:
Invest in an extendable bed like the Sundvik. It grows with your child, saving you money and providing a familiar space for years to come.
Trofast bins become mobile toy boxes:
Add castor wheels to Trofast storage bins for a mobile toy box. Your child can easily roll it around the room and keep their favorite toys within reach.
Hack the Hemnes dresser:
This classic dresser transforms into a changing table by adding a removable changing top. Once your child outgrows diapers, the Hemnes dresser continues to serve as a storage solution.
Micke desk with add-on units:
The Micke desk series offers various sizes and configurations. Add on shelves, cabinets, and pegboards for a study station that adapts to your child’s growing needs.
Hack the Kallax for a reading nook:
Transform a Kallax unit into a cozy reading nook. Add a comfy cushion on the bottom shelf, drape fabric panels
Cozy Comfort and Safety Solutions:
Textiles for a touch of whimsy:
Update plain IKEA curtains and bedding with colorful fabrics or playful patterns. Let your child choose their favorite colors and characters for a personalized touch.
Rucka Rucka chair for toddlers:
This fun and colorful chair provides a safe and comfortable spot for toddlers to read, play, or relax.
Nightlight magic with LED lighting strips:
Attach IKEA LED lighting strips under the bed frame or around the wardrobe for a soft, calming glow that helps chase away nighttime fears.
Floor mats for comfort and play:
Lay down colorful floor mats like the Lokmat series for a comfortable play area. Choose themes like roads, forests, or oceans to spark your child’s imagination during playtime.
Bekvam step stool for tiny helpers:
The Bekvam step stool helps little ones reach sinks, bookshelves, or even climb into their beds safely.
Bonus Hacks:
- Paint it pretty! Don’t be afraid to paint IKEA furniture to match your child’s decor or create a unique theme. Consider chalkboard or magnetic paint for interactive surfaces.
- Fabric playmats from rugs: Repurpose IKEA rugs into playmats by binding the edges with fabric tape. Choose soft, washable rugs for a comfortable play area.
- Hack the Raskog cart for art supplies: Dedicate a Raskog cart for art supplies. Add baskets for crayons, paints, and paper, and hang hooks for paintbrushes and scissors.
Remember: When hacking IKEA furniture, prioritize safety. Ensure all modifications are sturdy and appropriate for your child’s age. With a little creativity and these handy hacks, you can transform your child’s IKEA furniture into a functional, stylish, and playful space they’ll love to call their own.
