Admittedly, we’ve all been prone to leaving items on any available surface and neglecting to return them to their designated spots. This tendency often results in clutter, and when combined with inadequate storage solutions, maintaining an orderly home becomes challenging. Before long, your countertops might appear as if they’ve been hit by a storm. Thankfully, there’s an ingenious and straightforward solution: introducing the SUNNERSTA rail system from IKEA. This revolutionary accessory is among the budget-friendly IKEA products that assist in organizing your kitchen and other home areas. It helps clear your counter clutter by using vertical space while keeping your everyday items within reach.
The system includes a rail, four hooks, and two containers, offering flexibility in organization. Hang your towels, dishcloths, kitchen utensils, or aprons on the hooks, and place toothbrushes, craft supplies, stationery, or cutlery in the containers. Keep in mind that the system is designed to support up to 25 pounds of items. Each hook can individually accommodate up to 9 pounds, while the containers have a weight limit of 4 pounds.
Though not designed for outdoor use, you can install it in various areas of your home without worrying about water damage, as it is safe for humid environments. Additionally, the SUNNERSTA rail system is highly affordable. At under $5 (as of this writing), you can purchase a set from IKEA and enhance your kitchen storage.
Setting up the IKEA SUNNERSTA rail system
Installing the IKEA SUNNERSTA rail is a straightforward process you can accomplish in just a few minutes. You’ll need a few tools: a spirit level, a drill, screws, a pencil, and a screwdriver. First, make sure your chosen location has adequate space for the rail system, its accessories, and the items you’ll be placing on it. Then, identify where the end caps will be positioned on the wall. Hold the rail against the wall, keeping it straight with a spirit level. Use a pencil to mark the top of the end cap positions. Align the end cap with your markings and pencil in the drill holes on the end cap. Drill holes at the marked spots. If drilling into plasterboards, insert wall anchors for a more secure installation.
Next, secure the end cap into the drilled holes with screws using a screwdriver or drill, then mount the rail on the caps. Attach the rail to the end caps with blind screws and the Allen key provided with the system. Once the rail is installed, hang the hooks and containers, ensuring adequate space between each accessory for a cohesive appearance.
Similar to many other IKEA storage DIYs that optimize space, you can customize the SUNNERSTA rail. Consider mounting two or three rails side by side for additional storage or installing it inside cabinets for hidden storage. You can also paint them to match your interior decor for a seamless look or label the containers with stickers.
