Complete Guide: How to choose the right furniture caps – IKEA
Topics covered
IKEA furniture is widely distributed in France, and its chairs are particularly appreciated for their durability and design. Over time, the plastic caps naturally wear out, and it becomes important to replace them. Especially to maintain good floor protection (parquet, wood, PVC, linoleum…) and to eliminate unpleasant noises. This detailed guide will help you choose the plastic caps suitable for each IKEA chair and table model.
IKEA chair models and their suitable caps
IKEA, le géant suédois du mobilier, propose une vaste gamme de chaises adaptées à tous les goûts et besoins. De la salle à manger au bureau en passant par le jardin, IKEA offre des solutions variées alliant fonctionnalité et design scandinave.
Chaises de salle à manger
La collection de chaises de salle à manger IKEA comprend des modèles emblématiques tels que la STEFAN et la INGOLF. Ces chaises allient robustesse et élégance, parfaites pour créer une ambiance chaleureuse autour de la table familiale.
Caractéristiques techniques
Les chaises de salle à manger IKEA sont généralement fabriquées en bois massif, comme le pin ou le hêtre, pour une durabilité optimale. La STEFAN, par exemple, mesure 85 cm de hauteur, 42 cm de largeur et 49 cm de profondeur, avec une hauteur d’assise de 45 cm. Elle supporte un poids maximal de 110 kg. Les pieds sont équipés d’embouts en plastique de forme ronde, d’un diamètre de 20 mm, adaptés à une épaisseur de tube de 18 mm, avec une profondeur d’insertion de 15 mm. Ces embouts protègent efficacement les sols tout en assurant la stabilité de la chaise. La INGOLF, quant à elle, présente des dimensions similaires mais avec une finition plus raffinée et des embouts carrés de 25 mm de côté, pour une épaisseur de tube de 22 mm et une profondeur d’insertion de 18 mm.
Chaises de bureau
IKEA propose également une gamme variée de chaises de bureau, allant des modèles simples aux fauteuils ergonomiques haut de gamme. La série MARKUS est particulièrement appréciée pour son confort et son design fonctionnel.
Caractéristiques techniques
La chaise de bureau MARKUS est un exemple de l’expertise d’IKEA en matière d’ergonomie. Elle mesure 129-140 cm de hauteur, 62 cm de largeur et 60 cm de profondeur, avec une hauteur d’assise réglable de 45 à 57 cm. Le dossier est inclinable et verrouillable dans différentes positions pour un confort optimal. La base en étoile à cinq branches est équipée de roulettes avec des embouts en plastique coniques. Ces embouts ont un diamètre supérieur de 11 mm et inférieur de 8 mm, pour une épaisseur de tube de 10 mm et une profondeur d’insertion de 20 mm. Ils permettent un déplacement fluide sur diverses surfaces tout en protégeant les sols. La chaise peut supporter un poids maximal de 110 kg et est certifiée pour un usage professionnel.
En conclusion, IKEA offre une large gamme de chaises adaptées à divers usages, alliant fonctionnalité, design et durabilité. Chaque modèle est conçu avec soin, en prenant en compte les besoins spécifiques de chaque espace, que ce soit pour la salle à manger ou le bureau. Les embouts en plastique, soigneusement sélectionnés pour chaque modèle, assurent la protection des sols et la stabilité des chaises, contribuant ainsi à leur longévité et à la satisfaction des utilisateurs.
Plastic glides suitable for IKEA chairs
Depending on the model of your IKEA chairs, you will need to choose insert ferrules for hollow legs, or wrap-around caps for solid or hollow chair legs.
Insert glides: A solution for hollow legs
Insert caps, also known as tube inserts or internal end caps, fit inside the leg of a chair, table, or armchair. Here, the cap is held in place by the pressure exerted by the fins against the inner walls of the leg tube. Particularly suitable for furniture with tubular metal legs, these glides offer a clean aesthetic because only their contact surface with the floor is visible. Installing plastic caps requires precise measurement of the outer diameter or section of the tube, the internal dimensions of the hole, and also the insertion depth. See our Practical guide: How to measure a chair or table cap?
Insert glides have the advantage of better resistance to being pulled out during lateral movement and are often preferred in professional environments for their durability. However, they can present difficulties when being replaced, particularly in the event of oxidation or deformation of the tube, and sometimes require the use of specific tools for removal (pliers, utility knife, oil…)
Our Round insert plastic caps
Our Square insert plastic caps
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Glides for 65cm KARTELL CHARLES GHOST Philippe Starck stool – Set of 4 -
15-degree angled square chair leg insert | 30x30mm | Black -
Square end cap for chair and table legs | 40mm to 150mm | Black/White -
20° Angled square insert | 20mm-22mm-25mm-30mm | Black or White -
M8-M10 threaded square insert | 20mm to 60mm | Black -
Thick square leg insert | 10mm to 60mm | Black or White
Our Rectangular insert plastic glides
Wrap-around glides: Protection for solid and hollow legs
The wrap-around plastic caps encompass the outside of the chair leg, offering more complete protection. Installing the caps is generally simpler and does not require special tools. Particularly suitable for wooden legs or vintage furniture, they allow for compensation for slight irregularities in the legs and offer better force distribution. However, their more visible appearance can impact the aesthetics of the furniture, and their cost is often higher than that of insert caps. They are particularly recommended for the home or spaces requiring increased protection against humidity, such as covered patios or dining rooms.
Our Round wrap-around plastic glides
Not sure which plastic cap to choose?
The benefits of regularly changing the plastic caps on your IKEA chairs
Regularly replacing the caps on your IKEA chairs is an effective way to save money, enjoy optimal comfort, and keep your chairs, tables, and armchairs for longer.
1. Effective protection for floors and sensitive surfaces
Regularly replacing chair glides is a quick and simple way to avoid premature floor wear. Whether you have parquet, tile, or laminate, caps in good condition effectively prevent scratches, damage, and marks. It is noted that, on average, regular maintenance of end caps can extend the life of a floor by 5 to 7 years. This saves on renovation costs for your floors and coverings. Furthermore, the optimal weight distribution provided by new caps prevents the formation of pressure points that, over time, can cause irreversible damage to your parquet, linoleum, or laminate floors.
2. Less daily noise
The noise impact of chairs on the floor is a significant source of disturbance in living and work spaces. Regularly changed end caps allow for a notable reduction in noise levels, which can reach 12 to 15 decibels. This acoustic improvement results in a more serene environment, conducive to concentration and well-being. Measurements show a decrease in vibrations and squeaking, which is particularly appreciated in shared spaces or apartments. The absorption of shocks during movement helps to create a quieter atmosphere, promoting interaction and significantly reducing stress related to noise pollution.
3. Longer lifespan for your chairs
Planned replacement of end caps plays a crucial role in furniture longevity. Studies show a 30 to 40% increase in the lifespan of chairs when their end caps are kept in good condition. This protection extends to the entire structure: the legs are protected from wear and humidity, the joints undergo less mechanical stress, and general stability is maintained. Consistent replacement helps avoid the progressive deformations that can affect leg alignment and compromise the structural integrity of the furniture.
4. Better user comfort
The impact of regular cap replacement on daily comfort is often underestimated. End caps in good condition facilitate movement, reduce the necessary physical effort, and improve chair stability. This ergonomic optimization results in reduced user fatigue and a more natural posture. Movements become more fluid, cleaning is easier, and overall accessibility is improved. User satisfaction increases significantly, contributing to a more pleasant and functional environment, whether in a professional or domestic context.
Need to know more and find the plastic glide suited to your IKEA chairs?


