IKEA Just Released A Clever PAX Add-On—And I Already Found 3 Ways to Use It

IKEA PAX wardrobe
Photo Credit: IKEA.com

You know that feeling when you think your wardrobe is “done” — and then IKEA casually drops a new piece that makes you go, Wait… where has this been all my life? That’s exactly how I felt when I stumbled across the PAX add-on end unit.

For years, the ends of the PAX wardrobe were just sad little blank walls. No storage, no flair. Sure, you can add a few hooks to hang some clothes and bags, but most of the time, it’s just wasted potential.

Now, IKEA has finally fixed that by letting us add on this sleek end-unit — a skinny frame with shelves and a hanging rail that instantly transforms the dead side of your wardrobe into prime real estate.

What Exactly Is the PAX Add-On End Unit?

PAX add-on end unit in oak effect and white
PAX add on end unit | Photo Credit IKEAcom

In plain English: it’s the IKEA way of turning the side of your PAX wardrobe into storage you can actually use.

Instead of staring at a blank wall, you get:

  • 2 or 4 fixed shelves (depending on the unit’s height)
  • 1 clothes rail
  • Available in oak effect or white
  • Choice of 2 heights: 79 1/8″ or 92 7/8″ to match the rest of the PAX frames

Why this New PAX Addition is Brilliant

PAX add-on end unit
PAX add on end unit | Photo Credit IKEAcom

Think of it as bonus storage for your wardrobe. Instead of a blank end panel, you’ll now have the option to maximize that vertical plane.

Air your clothes in style: Got a jumper you wore once and don’t want to toss back in the wardrobe just yet? Hang it here. It’s the perfect halfway house for “not dirty but not fresh.”

Open storage meets easy access: With two or four fixed shelves and a clothes rail, you can stash your go-to bags, shoes, or folded knits while keeping tomorrow’s outfit hanging at arm’s reach.

Perfect for small spaces: The frame is narrow, so it won’t hog floor space. Adjustable feet mean it sits pretty even on wonky floors (hello, old apartments).

Personalization playground: Add baskets, boxes, or even LED strip lighting, and suddenly you’ve got a custom corner that feels more boutique than bedroom.

How To Assemble the PAX Add-On End Unit

PAX add-on end unit close up of shelf and hanging rail
Fixed shelf and hanging rail | Photo Credit IKEAcom

Like most IKEA furniture, this isn’t complicated — but a few tricks make it easier.

  1. Build the frame flat – Start by following the included assembly instructions and putting the end unit together on the ground.
  2. Position and level – Lift it and place it against your PAX wardrobe, adjusting the feet until it stands level.
  3. Drill pilot holes – Using a 1/4″ drill bit, drill 4 holes through the end unit into the wardrobe’s side panel where it will attach.
  4. Secure with bolts – Affix the end unit to the wardrobe using the provided bolts for a snug, stable connection.

Hacking the End Unit for Other Rooms

PAX add-on end unit
PAX add on end unit | Photo Credit IKEAcom

Sure, it was born to live beside your wardrobe, but the PAX add-on end unit has way more potential than just holding sweaters and scarves.

With a little imagination (and maybe a few screws, hooks, or baskets), this slim frame can moonlight in almost any room of the house.

Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

1. Entryway Organizer

If you don’t have a lot of space at the entrance, this add-on end unit will come in handy. At just 7 7/8″ (20 cm) deep, it’s slim enough to tuck behind a door or slide into that awkward corner you’ve never known what to do with.

  • Use the rail for coats and jackets, and even umbrellas
  • Fix one of the shelves at mid-level to stash your “keys-wallet-phone” essentials on it.
  • Add a mirror to the open area in the middle and voilà! You’ve got a mini mudroom without the bulk.

2. Kitchen Pantry Hack

The PAX add-on end unit can be easily converted into a slim pantry extension. Attach it to the side of your kitchen cabinets or blank kitchen wall, and suddenly you’ve got vertical storage.

  • Cut a few extra laminate shelves to maximize every inch. To keep jars and bottles in check, add slim guard rails so nothing goes flying when you reach for the oregano.
  • Repurpose the fixed clothes rail as a handy spot for tea towels and aprons. Or, if you’re feeling extra green, hang a row of small herb pots for a pint-sized vertical garden.
  • Pop cookbooks on the top shelf, snacks in baskets on the middle, and everyday staples—like pasta jars or cereal containers—at kid-friendly height.

3. Kids’ Room Organizer

Turn the PAX add-on end unit into a little helper in your child’s room. It’s slim enough to squeeze into tight spaces, but roomy enough to tame the chaos.

  • Outfit prep made easy. Use the rail to hang tomorrow’s school outfit—saving you from those “I have nothing to wear!” morning dramas.
  • Stack books, tuck away toys in baskets, or keep art supplies within easy reach. The fixed shelves are sturdy enough to handle everything from board games to building blocks.
  • Paint or wallpaper the back panel in a bold print (dinosaurs, galaxies, rainbows—whatever sparks joy). Suddenly, storage feels like part of the play zone, not just clutter control.

Your turn: How would you style the PAX add-on end unit? Would you use it for outfit planning, shoe storage, or something entirely unexpected? Share your hacks—we’d love to see how you make it yours.

Need more details on it? See the IKEA website for more information.

FAQ

Can you attach the PAX add-on end unit to any wardrobe?

Yes, as long as it matches the height of your PAX frame.

Can you add lighting?

Yes. The PAX Planner suggests compatible LED strips and accessories.

Is the PAX add-on end unit space-efficient?

Absolutely. It’s slim but adds both hanging and shelf storage.