IKEA Boaxel Closet System Review | Is This IKEA's BEST Closet Storage System? PROS and CONS!

My IKEA BOAXEL REVIEW! Are you considering the IKEA Boaxel? Maybe you're missing the IKEA Algot or are considering the IKEA Jonaxel and you are wondering what the best IKEA closet system is so you can give your closet a makeover! In this video, I break down all of the pros and cons for the IKEA Boaxel system, a modular closet system that is DIY friendly and perfect for front hall closets, bedroom closets, sewing rooms and laundry rooms.
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⏱. Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:18 - What is the IKEA Boaxel Closet System?
01:13 - Boaxel Shelving and Storage Options
02:18 - Boaxel Modularity
03:00 - Not Bulky
03:27 - Affordable
04:12 - Boaxel Planning Tool
05:00 - DIY Friendly
05:47 - Not Easy to Move
06:05 - Boaxel Quality Issues
06:24 - Should I buy the IKEA Boaxel Closet System?
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[@AmandaBaias]

I'm moving into a new house in a few months. Your IKEA related reviews are so helpful. Thank you for doing such a good job at pointing out what to expect with each system they offer.

[@heuchera88]

I started replacing our bedroom closets with this ikea system and love it! Such a great upgrade from standard wire shelving. I couldn’t believe how affordable it was to buy and then install by myself.

[@NoelMaguigad]

thank you for this super informative and honest review. We have been on the fence on a closet system decision on and your video pretty much sealed the deal to go with the Boaxel.

[@ToiletDuckify]

Lovely video. Wanted to fit out a couple of cupboards in my bedroom, saw the boaxel system. This helped convince me to go down that route

[@DP-xs7le]

Thank you Nick. I was looking for an honest review like this ❤️❤️

[@jodibradbury2807]

This was very helpful, Nick. Thanks so much!

[@chiarapagotto5316]

I organized my very narrow laundry/bathroom with the Boaxel system. I put the shelves just higher than my head to have extra room for storage without using floor space. My brother made me some rectangular iron poles, floor to ceiling, to mount the system on, in order not to make holes on the wall tiles. Fantastic!

[@RosaArgieCleck]

Hi Nick, Rosa here from Alberta Canada! Just want to thank you for all you do and that I appreciate all that you share in your channel. So grateful I found you on youtube! More power to you!

[@jakedjohan1079]

I am thinking about getting this closet system for my in the wall closet. Thanks for the awesome tips and tricks!

[@Nick_Lewis]

That's great Jake! It's a great system!

[@RawYetTender]

One thing I have enjoyed about Boaxel is that we have been able to be creative mixing shelf and rail lengths over/under. We have a small home with 59" long bedroom closets. We have dedicated one side to hanging and one side to shelves and baskets. To hang our clothes, I have the 31" shelf/hanger on top and a 23" half way down below (this takes an extra wall bracket to accomplish). The benefit here is that we get two 23" areas for shirts, pants, and skirts and the extra 8" of the 31" hanger allows space for long dresses/coats to hang next to the lower 23" shelf/hanger. Of course, some people may need more space for longer items than that. The other side is all 23" shelves/baskets.

[@BrianRouse]

I’m glad I stumbled onto this…I was struggling to decide what to do with a 1.5” x 6” space.

[@honey_lion]

Thank you for this review! I love the look of an organized closet!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Me too! Although I'm far from perfect! 😊

[@bvega5112]

Thank you so much for this review. I've been considering this system to redo our bedroom closet and been holding off to make sure it is similar to the algot, which has so many reviews! Planning an ikea trip very soon.

[@Nick_Lewis]

Yes, ok I'm glad you mentioned the Algot as I have that system too. I actually filmed about 2 minutes of extra footage that I cut because I thought only I would be interested in the differences. They are very similar - so similar in fact that I wondered why IKEA changed the systems at all! IKEA also isn't super clear about things that were compatible with Algot like the Skadis pegboard system, or wire shoe racks and whether they are compatible with the Boaxel. Ultimately I left it off the review because I don't know for sure, and this is the system that IKEA is using going forward so we better get used to the fact the Algot is gone forever, but I hope they come out with more accessories and are clearer on what is compatible with the Boaxel. It is a great system though - love it for closets! Thanks for watching!

[@kirsten5155]

Thank you - so helpful!

[@sandigalloway3871]

Thanks for all of this info!

[@pamelasertich9850]

Thank you so much for this review. I have such a small apartment. It has TWO closets that are very deep, there are wooden shelves on the back wall but you can't get to them because the rails for the clothes are in the front. I am organizing my second bedroom for my crafts and have been using the Container Store's Elfa rail system and some of the Pax units but I think this system sounds like a winner for the closets. Thanks again.

[@evelynmarius9947]

Love the Boaxel! I need this in my life!!

[@lkelle3]

You are so greatly appreciated!!!

[@CatFromFL]

We did our pantry with 3 walls of boaxel in a u shape- 6 shelves or baskets on each- its a dream pantry- Thanks for inspiring us. 100 wall anchors later -(which were a bitch)-its extremely sturdy. All my friends that have seen it covet it!

[@JustYFriend]

"Grab a plate of meatballs and then go to town!" 😂😂😂 Thanks! More IKEA videos, please!!! 😁🙏🙏

[@Nick_Lewis]

Haha love those meatballs! Thanks for always watching. I always love to see your comments!

[@candiddecoranddesign2737]

I had to come back and watch this video again with a specific project in mind! So grateful for all your Ikea reviews!!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Thank you ❤️ You haven't posted in a while! I miss your videos!

[@candiddecoranddesign2737]

@@Nick_Lewis oh thank you, I know it's been so long. We have some big news coming ☺️

[@JGmeow]

I'm looking forward to using this system in my laundry room!

[@stylesavie433]

Help! Loved this review; was hoping you could tell me... if handing this on drywall walls, what size and type of screw and anchors did you use?

[@deenaehret5006]

Now this seems like a better solution, for me, than the Pax. Thanks for the review!! Keep the videos coming. Love them. Especially when you do the 2 minute videos. Lots of info crammed in a short amount of time. You’re the best!!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I like the 2 minute videos too. Plus it's practice for me to deliver lots of info in a short amount of time. A fun challenge!

[@mamalize]

Hi, I found your channel in search and I really enjoyed watching this video. I'm following this channel to see your journey and I can't wait to see your next videos :-)

[@Nick_Lewis]

Thanks for coming along! Look forward to seeing you around the comment sections. Always let me know if you have any questions!

[@jakedjohan1079]

Update- the Boaxel closet system works GREAT! It makes it super easy to pick an outfit but staying organized at the same time. I purchased all the little interior fittings to go with this system, and it is awesome! HIGHLY recommend!

[@Nick_Lewis]

That’s awesome! Thanks for the update! Yeah I love how simple and open it is. Such a great step up from other systems, especially with all those interior fitting options. Enjoy!

[@zehryx]

Yaas! My Ikea has been remodeling for months 😅 Ps: Love the shirt!

[@Nick_Lewis]

I was there yesterday and there was a lot of the upstairs under development. I think they've got some changes coming. Thanks for the complement on the shirt - I didn't know I needed a Terrazzo sweater - but I did!

[@CC-kk8yh]

This system is undeniably functional and it doesn't look terrible. I put this into my coat closet after cladding the walls with cedar and it's perfect for our functional needs. We also have this system in our reach-in closets and it really maximizes the storage capacity and minimized the need for bulky dressers by using some drawers. The planner isn't perfect but it's very helpful.

[@famillyho4509]

Thank you for the review, Nick. I just paid for it ytd n waiting for delivery comes. It's great to know the "Boaxel Planning tool"!! Thank you!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thergrace]

Hello nick thanks for your review about boaxel. If possible could you review joaxel "system" from ikea too? Thankyou 🙏

[@rich2rich9]

Hi! love your video - thank you for reviewing the boaxel! Did you find for your front hall closet that the Boaxel can bear enough load to be used as a coat closet? Thanks!

[@jamesporcas639]

Good content. worth a thumbs up

[@Nick_Lewis]

Good comment. Worth a heart! ❤️

[@lynnec32]

Thanks for the thorough review. I have two side by side hall closets (why? Not sure - maybe plumbing?) that I'm reorganizing and have found the Boaxel can make the most of the spaces and isn't too expensive. Unfortunately, after spending hours and hours planning the 3 walls of the 2 closets, when I went to order everything, half of it was out of stock. The baskets that you love are out of stock in the "local" store (just an hour away) and the two other stores (2.5 and 4 hours away). I was also disappointed to find out that the adjustable shelves aren't even available to order online. So, I'll have several 3+ hour trips in my future to be able to actually use the product.

[@yahmein]

I installed this system 4 months ago and I love it, we still have a blank wall in our closet that we’re going to add baskets to and I can’t wait to get it installed! One thing I wish though is that the baskets were deeper like the older version had (Algot).

[@Nick_Lewis]

I know what you mean. I actually had a few minutes of footage about the differences between Algot and Boaxel but I cut it. I figured to most people it isn't relevant now that Algot is discontinued, but I agree, there was a lot to love about Algot that is not there yet with Boaxel.

[@agiiiiiful9565]

I'm also happy with it. In my case it's not rickety at all (but I don't have moving elements, just shelves and rails, which can explain it). Very usable! On the other hand, I wouldn't buy PAX again. It was very difficult to build, wasn't stable (ikea said it's because of the skirting board, which shouldn't be on the wall where PAX stands, but it doesn't make sense given that even in the pictures published by them there is a skirting board). It resulted to be more expensive than most wardrobes in saw in other stores. Never again PAX.

[@wdpk837]

would also recommend the Elfa shelving system at The Container Store

[@allysonreinhart3559]

As far as hanging it the perfect width and being sure that it is spaced correctly, the IKEA Boaxel buying guide it says to actually hook a shelf in at the top of the 2 parallel rails and also hook one in at the bottom. Then, you know you have them spaced and distanced properly!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Great tip! Yes I think it's best to build the frame of it and then you know you've got it. Thanks for watching!

[@mauriciakanafany6450]

Nick, check out the SKYTTA / BOAXEL combination (defined as a Reach-in wardrobe with sliding door). It's a nice way to put a boaxel on the wall and cover it with a sliding door (nice!). You may like it!

[@buzzi2k]

Hi Nick! I keep coming back to this review as I consider the Boaxel system. I'm thinking about it for a desk setup at home. Do you think a shelf would be deep enough? I notice one of the inspiration pictures uses it at a desk. Would it be possible to swap out a shelf with a deeper DIY one, or are there special fixings on the shelves themselves?

[@barbfallon790]

I'm considering this for my master bedroom and found your review helpful! Do you know if the vertical pieces can be cut to different lengths? I have a Cape Cod where the ceiling meets the wall at only 47" off the ground and would need pieces shorter than the 78.75" verticle piece they sell. Thanks!

[@sylviar549]

What sweatshirt are you wearing? I love it! It looks like a terrazzo countertop and so cool!

[@sarasparks33]

I was just thinking about this, I need it, is this the new tie die 🤔

[@naimahq8739]

Right!! My thoughts exactly

[@oliviapuck]

Hi, great review! How strong are the shelves do you think? Assuming you anchor everything properly to the wall. I want to build a gear storage system and am wondering if this would support the weight of climbing, skiing, camping, hiking, scuba gear, etc. What’s your gut feeling? Thanks!

[@dyanalayng5507]

I like the open desk and shelving option...

[@linkchen7683]

hi nick, thank you for the review, my question would be the wall i have is plaster wall, and im looking to have the clothes rail bar on top across 80 cm x 2. would it hold the weight? im worry coz the system is projected away from the wall i dont know how heavy it can take, which is why im considering the ELVARLI, but is 3 x time the price and less basket other options , appreciate your reply in advance , thx

[@aevan8tor]

Please review the aurdal!!!

[@nataschas9552]

You, my dear, are a true jem!

[@RTYB]

I can't believe Ikea discontinued such a magnificent system (Algot) and replaced it with mediocre and uncustomizable Boaxel. Only one shelf depth, only two shelf widths, no sliding rails, no ability to have different depth shelves side to side, no free-standing posts for non-wall mounted systems... Boaxel is a failure. I doubt they're even going to expand on it. If we know Ikea, and we know them, once they launch something it is the end product.

[@Nick_Lewis]

Ok so I actually had about a minute and a half of footage that I was ready to put in this video where I listed "Not the Algot" as a con for the boaxel for some of the very reasons you described. Plus there are some accessories that I miss from the Algot. Ultimately I cut the footage because I realized that most of the people that will watch this video now or will see it years from now will not care what the Algot even is, so I left it out and just focussed on the Boaxel on its own merits. I agree with you that I miss the Algot, but I'm hopeful IKEA will build on the boaxel over time. However, I totally understand your skepticism.

[@electricia]

Could not agree more. I used Algot in three closets in my house and was really pleased. A year later, I went to FINALLY do my master closet only to find that there is no more Algot, only Boaxel. I ended up using it because it still turned out to be the best option, but I found it incredibly inferior to Algot in ease of installation, flexibility of configurations, and sturdiness. But overall I was pretty disappointed in Boaxel. Also really disappointed that I now have no options to reconfigure the Algot systems I installed. At the very least, they could have made the two somewhat compatible.

[@marthacaldera1522]

You should do a home tour! Your house looks beautiful!

[@daimingsing]

OMG yes, I was just spying the pendant light in the background and the wall colour, really made me think a house tour is in order lol

[@neecole4023]

Currently researching this product for my craft room. I’m noticing it comes in 2 different widths. Could you do 23” accessories on one side and 31” on the other? 🤔 the planner only lets me choose 1 or the other. Annnddd let’s not get into the stock issues. *Also* thank you for taking the time to review this product!

[@MistyDarrington]

This system seems a lot like the Elfa system from The Container Store. I absolutely love the Elfa line, mechanics, and flexibility. (You only have to level one top rail!)

[@woteverism]

Can you make a really narrow entryway(could use anything of depth lesser than 36 cms) organizing video?? Preferably closed storage. I live in the Netherlands, and since you have lived here too, I know you can relate to this problem.

[@rstabmail]

Hi, I have a lot of clothes so the clothes rail usual becomes quite heavy. I also have suitcases that I have on top of my current wardrobe. Is this system strong enough and durable as a permanent option? Or is more suitable for light storage?

[@NilZed1]

didn't realize they discontinued Algot. We have lots of the freestanding, purchased for a rental and still in use until we are ready to hack some PAX into a longer term plan. I had expected to donate it to a thrift shop when the time came, but now I might have to eBay what we have!

[@lizharley5723]

Would this be a good idea for closet in home office to house printer, paper supplies, etc?

[@sillynorthsburgh5072]

Thank you for your information! Will you suggest this for a pantry?

[@Nick_Lewis]

I would assuming the shelf sizes will fit your space and needs.

[@dennisvalentine8818]

Question for you. Can the IKEA boaxel closet system Work with the Elfa closet solution?

[@cgem322]

What screws did you buy the for uprights and rails? The boaxel instructions don’t say

[@pelocat]

I know you said the drawers are a bit unsteady but how are the shelves? Thinking of doing a system with just shelves and definitely don’t want the shelves to be unstable or move too much

[@kathrinegilmore2832]

Hi Nick! Love your videos. Can the computer planning be done online or do you have to go into the store for that?

[@Nick_Lewis]

Yes it can! Boaxel's tool is great. Don't get me started on PAX...

[@drexplordinaire]

I only have width of 20 inch with the window framing obstructing. Is it possible to hack Boaxel? It's a little too wide! I would prefer it over the elvadr one which looks less nice and does not mount to wall.

[@charitynordgren8246]

Would this work for a small walk in closet?

[@MomtoZnE]

I just subscribed, love your content! Price aside, Boaxel or Elfa?

[@Nick_Lewis]

Oh the Elfa is the Container Store, right? So I don't own it, but I did look at it for our walk in as a PAX replacement. I think it has more purpose built accessories with it like stuff for ties, belts and other accessories. So I can't speak the quality of it, but price aside I would say the Elfa. The Boaxel is just more utilitarian and there to get the job done for hall closets, reach in closets etc and is not as customizable.

[@sharnachoudari6318]

Great video any tips on the screws u used?

[@Nick_Lewis]

Sorry Sharna, I can't remember!

[@buzzi2k]

Brilliant review, thank you! Been looking for a review of this system. I'm looking into options for a-semi open closet for the bedroom, with an airy contemporary feel. Thinking about combining four sections of this system with a double malm dresser along one wall. Do you think that it is likely to look 'neat' enough? As long as the hanging clothes are pressed 😅

[@Nick_Lewis]

I think that will look great! It's a really good system - I'm hoping IKEA comes out with more baskets and accessories in time. Thanks for watching!

[@deborah7714]

@@Nick_Lewis Agreed! I noticed that on Instagram, other countries seem to have beech coloured shelves which we don't yet have in the UK!

[@Nick_Lewis]

Oh interesting! I’ll keep an eye out here in Canada.

[@user-ko4do2dj5p]

Does the Boaxel system bear a lot of weight? I have tones of autumn/winter clothes, and I'm not sure this system is strong enough to hang a lot of clothes.

[@1230sandrag]

Do you think this would be suitable for using the Boaxel for a pantry?

[@joshbenshoof1540]

I was curious about this system thank you

[@ivychick99]

Thank you so much for posting this video! I’m actually considering this system for a pantry in a kitchen remodel. I noticed you mentioned that it could be a little rickety. Do you have any thoughts on its usage as a pantry?

[@Nick_Lewis]

I think that's an ideal use for it! I'm not exactly sure the weight that it can support so just be mindful of that.

[@ginafarrell1994]

Someone else posted a response in regards to using it as a pantry.. she said she used like 100 wall anchors and it’s super sturdy! So I guess just really anchor it in and it can support a lot of weight!

[@ivychick99]

@@ginafarrell1994 Thank you for the additional info! 🙂

[@VanAddae]

Hey there is this the same as the algot? I'm confused, pls help lol

[@ngeorge3833]

Looking to make an office closet, can the drawers handle reams of paper

[@Nick_Lewis]

The basket drawers? I'd be a little concerned about weight depending on how much paper you are looking at. The shelves should be fine, but the basket drawers might be tough.

[@Irrespons]

closet is exact 80cm wide, will BOAXEL 80cm fit or do I need a tiny bit more space for the wall rail? Thank you for the informative video, nice and to the point. Love it.

[@RTYB]

I'd recommend you use 60cm shelfs. Ideally it depends on your drill, but clearance is tight next to wall. My drill only gets me to around 2.5cm from the exact corner.

[@zivilezilinskaite7078]

No, it won't fit. You will need 82 cm inside space.

[@HollyMatherly]

Curious . . . IKEA has a video of one guy installing Boaxel in about 5 minutes by himself, but you said you recommend two people. Is it really a 2 person jib? Or, is it acase like mine, where my partner has forbidden me from assembling anything from IKEA without help, lol? He is tired of undoing my mistakes.

[@chrisk5985]

I like your shirt

[@OctoberTide0]

ALGOT looked much better and more durable. By looking at these BOAXEL "thing", it seems that the main reason to discontinue ALGOT and to introduce BOAXEL was to make a product which is cheaper to produce. I think this is why IKEA does not have 60cm deep shelves for BOAXEL as well - because this product can't handle too much load. I have LAGOT at home and totally love it. Regular 40cm deep shelves easily handle 20kg. And 60cm deep shelves are so nice to have as a tabletop above a big washing machine. The idea of ALGOT was genius! Why shooting everybody including themselves in the leg by ditching it?

[@Nick_Lewis]

I'm going to also guess that it was cost related. I loved the Algot too and originally I had a whole section of this review comparing it to the Algot that I cut because it wasn't relevant going forward. It's a shame because I also loved the Algot.

[@robertoroselli4957]

What kind of weight can support on the shelves 80x40 cm ?

[@Nick_Lewis]

I'm not 100% sure to be honest. I know I've stacked board games on them which are pretty heavy and never had an issue.

[@robertoroselli4957]

Is it algo in the video? In the CONS part of the video?

[@user-ih4mr3mi1x]

Is this Boaxel build as bookshelf? How strong on shelf?

[@Nick_Lewis]

It a shelving system that is put on rials that are drilled into your wall. I don't know the max weight but they might know that at IKEA. I'm able to put a lot of boxes on it without an issue, but I'd check with IKEA first if you are concerned!

[@AydenBryde]

Hello!

[@pepadelval]

The problem with the planner tool is that once you have one design and try to design the second wall the first one disappears!! NO good for more than one wall. Or did I do something wrong?

[@lynnec32]

No, that's true - you can only do one wall at a time, so if you want to have shelving/storage on the left or right side of a closet with some on the back wall, you cannot model that.

[@FunniMsBunni]

The only thing I would ask is you move where your pop ups are because I can't read any of them, they are currently right where the subtitles appear.

[@HirathaYT]

Same, I’ve been using the ten sec rewind and switching the subs on and off but it’s a bit of a cludge.

[@CJICantLie]

@6:20 Is that a dog shampoo marketted as Sexy?

[@Nick_Lewis]

It sure is! It’s called Sexy Bitch and yes, it’s the reason I bought it.

[@vvkkhe]

but I don’t know how high the shelf would be compared to Pax online planning tool

[@Nick_Lewis]

Well the brackets can go wherever you want them to go and come in the two lengths. Since it's mounted on the wall as opposed to boxes on the floor, it's more flexible that way. Hope that helps.

[@sunilp5487]

6:22 …👀

[@nimuenorth6295]

I like the idea of this system, but as someone living in Germany where pretty much all the houses have walls made of bricks, the number of screws that have to go into the wall to attach the rails gives me nightmares.

[@thebanks37]

Masonry drill bit an rawl plugs will make light work of the brick walls!

[@liesascott5414]

80% of the video is about him looking pretty.

[@MarkMark-rw3fz]

ALGOT system was much better, go back to Algot please

[@Ryan-ot5bf]

Just talks about pictures and info from web page.