Ikea is a retailer known for its low-cost, Scandinavian-inspired furniture. While much of Ikea’s furniture is sturdy and well-made, some pieces have cheap plastic cam locks that are difficult to remove. This blog post will teach you how to get ikea plastic cam locks out without damaging the furniture. Keep reading to learn more!
What Causes an Ikea Plastic Cam Lock to Get Stuck?
There are a few reasons why an Ikea plastic cam lock might get stuck. The most common reason is that the lock is not aligned correctly with the hole in the furniture. This can happen if the furniture is moved or if the lock is not inserted properly. Another reason why the lock might be stuck is that something is blocking the hole in the furniture, such as a piece of dirt or debris.
Additionally, if the furniture is made of softwood, the hole might have become enlarged over time, making it difficult for the lock to grip. The other possibility is that the lock is damaged or defective. Lastly, it is also possible that the lock was installed upside down!
Why Is It Important to Get Ikea Plastic Cam Locks Out?
Getting Ikea plastic cam locks out is important for a few reasons. First, if the lock is not removed, it won’t be easy to take the furniture apart and move it. Additionally, if the lock is not removed, it could damage the furniture when you try to take it apart.
Another reason to remove the lock is that it can be a safety hazard. If the lock is not removed, small children could potentially get trapped inside the furniture. Finally, if you ever need to return the furniture to Ikea, they will not accept it if the cam lock is still in place.
Some Easy Ways on How to Get Ikea Plastic Cam Locks Out
1. Use a Flathead Screwdriver
The first way to remove an Ikea plastic cam lock is by using a flathead screwdriver. This method is quick and easy, but it can damage the furniture if you are not careful. First, insert the screwdriver into the hole in the lock. Then, turn the screwdriver clockwise until the lock pops out.
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Be careful not to scratch or damage the furniture with the screwdriver. If the lock is stuck, you can try wiggling the screwdriver back and forth to loosen it. Avoid using too much force, as this could strip the hole or damage the furniture.
2. Use a Nail File
Nail files are another great tool for removing Ikea plastic cam locks. This method is similar to using a screwdriver, but it is less likely to damage the lock. First, insert the nail file into the keyhole. Next, twist the file until you feel resistance. Finally, pull the file out of the lock. Try this method a few times before moving on to the next one.
3. Use a Knife
Another way to remove an Ikea plastic cam lock is by using a knife. This method is a bit more challenging, but it can be effective if you’re careful. First, insert the knife’s blade into the space between the lock body and the cam. Be careful not to damage the lock body itself. Next, twist the knife until the blade is caught on the cam.
Then, pull the cam out with the knife. You may need to use a bit of force to get the cam to budge, but be careful not to damage the lock body.
4. Use a Drill
If the previous methods have not worked, you may need to resort to using a drill. This is a more extreme measure, but it will definitely get the job done. First, you will need to find a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the lock itself. Next, drill a hole into the center of the lock.
Be careful not to drill too deep, as you don’t want to damage the interior mechanism of the lock. Finally, use a small screwdriver or other tools to turn the lock mechanism and release it from the door. Avoid using too much force, as this could damage the lock.
5. Use Pliers
If the lock is still not budging, you may need to use pliers. This method requires a bit of patience, but it will eventually work. First, locate the small hole on the side of the lock. Then, insert the pliers’ tip into the hole and turn it clockwise. The lock should start to loosen, and you will be able to remove it. Avoid forcing the lock, as this may damage it.
6. Use a Screwdriver and Hammer
If the previous methods have not worked, you may need to resort to using a screwdriver and hammer. This method is a bit more destructive, but it will definitely get the job done. First, insert your screwdriver into the space between the lock cylinder and the cam. Next, use your hammer to tap on the end of the screwdriver until the cylinder pops out.
Finally, use a pair of pliers to remove the cam lock from the door. Avoid using this method if possible, as it can damage the door.
7. Use a Hacksaw Blade
If the lock is still not budging, you may need to resort to using a hacksaw blade. This method is a bit more destructive, but it will definitely get the job done. First, insert the hacksaw blade into the hole in the center of the lock. Apply pressure to the blade and saw back and forth until you have cut through the locking mechanism.
Once the mechanism has been cut, the lock should come right off. You can try gently prying it off with a screwdriver or another sharp object if it is still stuck.
8. Use a Lubricant
If the lock is still not budging, you may need to use a lubricant. This will help to loosen the lock and make it easier to remove. You can use WD-40, lubricating oil, or even Vaseline. Apply the lubricant to the lock and wait a few minutes before trying to remove it again. If this doesn’t work, you may need to try another method.
9. Use a Heat Gun
If the lock is still not budging, you may need to use a heat gun. This will essentially melt the plastic, making the lock easier to remove. Be very careful when using a heat gun, as they can get extremely hot. Apply the heat gun to the lock for a few seconds, then try removing the lock again. Repeat this process until the lock comes out.
10. Call a Professional
If you have tried all of the previous methods and the lock is still not budging, you may need to call a professional. A locksmith will be able to remove the lock without damaging it. They will also be able to advise you on how to prevent this from happening in the future. If you have an Ikea furniture warranty, you may be able to get the lock replaced for free.
Tips and Warnings on How to Get Ikea Plastic Cam Locks Out
Tips:
- Be careful when removing the plastic cam locks from the furniture. This is to avoid damaging the furniture.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pry out the plastic cam locks. This is to avoid damaging the plastic cam locks.
- Be careful not to lose the small metal washer that is inside the lock. This is to avoid having to replace the lock.
- If the lock is stuck, you can use a hair dryer to heat up the plastic and make it easier to remove.
Warnings:
- Do not use a sharp object to pry out the plastic cam locks. This is to avoid damaging the furniture.
- Do not use too much force when removing the locks. This is to avoid breaking the furniture.
- Be careful not to lose the small metal washer that is inside the lock. This is to avoid having to replace the lock.
How Much Does It Cost to Get Ikea Plastic Cam Locks Out?
The cost of getting the Ikea plastic cam locks out will depend on your method. Using the screwdriver and hammer method will cost you nothing as you probably already have these tools. If you need to buy a hacksaw blade, it will cost you around $5. If you need to use a lubricant, it will cost you around $10. If you need to use a heat gun, it will cost you around $20. Finally, if you need to call a professional, it will cost you around $100.
Conclusion
So there you have it, everything you need to know about how to get ikea plastic cam locks out. Be sure to follow the tips and warnings above to avoid damaging your furniture. With a little patience and the right tools, you should be able to remove the locks without any problems. Thanks for reading, and good luck!
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