The Smart IKEA KALLAX Accessory That Keeps Board Games Neat & Tidy

IKEA's iconic KALLAX system is great for storing a bevy of different things. You can use it as a classic bookcase, putting books and trinkets inside its cubbies. You can use the KALLAX for stylish shoe storage, displaying a pair in each cube. It's also the perfect solution for your record player storage problems. And if you have an extensive board game collection, its compact cubbies are the ideal place to store your various strategy and party games. 

However, there is a downside to using KALLAX to store board games. Just like with any other shelving unit, removing the bottom games is tough, as pulling one out can often topple the rest. Luckily, one IKEA KALLAX accessory makes that messy entire scenario much more avoidable. 

Made by the brand LAX RAX, these shelf inserts were specifically designed to match the cube's dimensions, creating a snug fit. The organizer has adhesive sides, allowing you to fasten the inserts to the sides of the cubby without drilling any holes. Then, two wooden poles go across, and you can stack the games on top of them. And if you're looking for more robust alternatives, we'll explore a few IKEA accessories that are also built specifically for the KALLAX system. 

Not only is the LAX RAX product helpful when it comes to storing board games, it's also unlikely to break your budget. You can get a 12-pack, which makes 12 slots, for under $50 at BoxKing. 

However, if you have a more substantial collection, you can get a 24-pack for on Cloud Puncher Games for less than $60. And to accommodate a truly sprawling collection, opt instead for the can 48-pack, also at Cloud Puncher Games; this option will set you back just over $100. You can choose shelving that's either white or black to match the color of your KALLAX unit. 

Reviewers seem genuinely pleased with LAX RAX, confirming that it's a good investment. "Received mine today. Love the size and the sturdiness, as well as the possible combinations," one reviewer wrote. "Mine arrived today in Houston TX and it is flawless! Amazing product well worth the wait!" another posted. If you're looking for an organized way to store your board games, this might be the perfect solution.

The LAX RAX inserts are inexpensive and relatively user friendly. However, if you'd rather not tinker around with the adhesive grips and rods, or you simply want a solution that's more robust or aesthetically pleasing, you have other options to consider. You needn't look far, either, since IKEA's KALLAX collection comes with a number of handy accessories that will help you maximize storage space for board games. 

For example, this KALLAX one-shelf insert from IKEA is a more elegant solution that a LAX RAX insert. Made from the same materials as the shelf, this insert blends perfectly into the cubby while separating it into two compartments. You can insert it horizontally or vertically to keep a stack of games neatly separated. Like its parent KALLAX series, the insert comes in black-brown, white, and white oak, but also in pine, in case you want to add a touch of natural wood to the aesthetic of the shelves. This accessory goes for $15.  

If your game collection includes smaller packages, or you store numerous other accessories or knick-knacks that would otherwise look messy on a shelf, consider this two-drawer insert — also from IKEA. These drawers fit inside a KALLAX shelf, giving you a handy means of keeping large quantities of these smaller items neatly stored and out of sight, yet always within reach. You can choose from colors that match the KALLAX shelf or opt for a high-gloss white.