How To Remove Small Nails from IKEA Furniture

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Written By Koushik Tarafder

While it might seem like a difficult task at first, with the right tools and techniques, you can tackle this challenge smoothly and restore your furniture to its former glory. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of removing small nails from IKEA furniture. We’ll provide you with a clear outline, necessary tools, and tips to make the job easier and prevent damage to your beloved furniture pieces.

Remove Small Nails from IKEA Furniture

Risk Factors For Removing Small Nails

Broken Nail Heads

When attempting to remove a small nail, there is a possibility that the nail head may break off. This can make it more challenging to grip and remove the nail effectively.

Nails Going Deep into the Furniture

When attempting to lift or remove a nail, if done incorrectly or with excessive force, it is risky to push the nail further into the furniture instead of extracting it. This can cause the nail to become more challenging to remove.

Increased Risk of Damage

If the incorrect process or tools are used to remove small nails, there is a higher likelihood of causing additional damage to the furniture. This can include scratches, dents, or chipped wood. Choosing the appropriate tools and techniques is essential to minimize the risk of unintended harm.

It’s essential to prioritize safety, wear appropriate protective gear, use the right tools for the job, and proceed with care and patience To minimize these risks.

Easy and Effective: Two Methods for Removing Small Nails from IKEA Furniture

Method 1 – Apply Cutting Pliers

Apply Cutting Pliers To Remove Small Nails
  1. Begin by choosing a pair of sharp-edged Cutting Pliers.
  2. Position the ends of the cutting pliers on both sides of the nail.
  3. Apply slight pressure by pushing the pliers into the wood and grip the nail just beneath its head while squeezing the pliers’ handle.
  4. Carefully pull the nail upwards using the pliers.
  5. Place a piece of wood in front of the pliers for additional pressure.

That’s it!

Note: To prevent the small nail from being cut due to excessive pressure, it is essential to grip it with the cutting pliers carefully.

Method 2 – Use a Screwdriver and Hammer

  1. Position the screwdriver’s flat head against the furniture nail’s head and carefully slide it underneath the small nail head. If needed, lightly tap the back of the screwdriver with a hammer. Gradually, you will observe the tip of the screwdriver getting beneath the nail head.Use a Screwdriver and Hammer To Remove Small Nail
  2. Continue pushing the nail upwards using the screwdriver. You will see that the nails start to rise slightly.
  3. Finally, extract the nail using the claw part of a claw hammer. Alternatively, standard pliers can be employed to pull it out.

Done!

Tips: To ease the process, you can sharpen the head of the screwdriver. Sharpening the tip can enhance its ability to grip and slide under the nail head more easily.

FAQ’s

Should I Repair Or Fill The Holes Left Behind After Removing Small Nails From Ikea Furniture?

If you prioritize aesthetics, repairing or filling the holes left behind is recommended after removing small nails from IKEA furniture. There is one option to use wood filler to fill the holes and create a smooth surface.

However, it is important not to re-nail these holes as doing so may cause the nails to become loose. Instead, you can drive the nail to a location closer to the original hole to avoid potential problems. 

Should I Use Any Lubricants Or Solvents To Make It Easier?

Using lubricants or solvents is optional and particularly effective when removing small nails. These substances typically cannot penetrate the small nail before it is extracted, rendering them less helpful in this scenario. 

Conclusion

We hope this guide has empowered you to confidently and easily tackle nail removal from your IKEA furniture. If you found this information helpful, we encourage you to leave a comment sharing your experience or any additional tips you may have. Remember and don’t forget to share this guide with your friends or anyone who could benefit from it.

You may read also – How to Remove Headless Nails

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