If you're struggling to keep your home organized, the JONAXEL IKEA storage system might be the game-changer you need. JONAXEL is a sleek, versatile, and modular storage solution from IKEA designed to make the most of any space – large or small. As an interior designer (and a Swede who naturally loves IKEA!), I've found JONAXEL incredibly useful for small space organization in various projects. In this article, I'll share what the JONAXEL system is, what makes it so useful, and how I used it to maximize storage throughout a home. The goal is to help you understand how JONAXEL can streamline your space, whether you need better closet organization, a tidier laundry area, or a more functional hallway. Let's dive in!
JONAXEL is an open storage system made up of metal frames, shelves, and wire baskets that you can mix and match to create a custom storage unit. In plain terms, it's a set of stackable shelving units and slide-out mesh drawers that you configure however you like. The system is affordable, flexible, and sturdy, making it a popular choice for those of us who want modular storage from IKEA without spending a fortune on built-in closets.
Key features of the JONAXEL system include:
Modular Design: You purchase separate components (frame, shelves, baskets, rails, wheels, etc.) and assemble your ideal combination. Need more shelves or an extra drawer? Simply add another module on top or expand sideways – JONAXEL is built to grow with your needs.
Sturdy & Durable: Made of powder-coated steel, JONAXEL is built to be strong and long-lasting. It's even tested for use in humid areas like bathrooms and laundries, so you don't have to worry about a bit of moisture or steam. The mesh baskets are metal as well, which means they can hold heavy items (books, laundry, tools) without warping.
Open & Airy: The open-frame design with wire mesh drawers means your items are visible and ventilated. Clothes and towels can "breathe," and you can see everything at a glance – great for quickly finding that one sweater or keeping an eye on laundry. (No more forgotten items hidden in the back of a deep cupboard!)
Easy to Assemble: Like most IKEA products, JONAXEL is designed for easy assembly. In my experience, one person can put together a basic shelf-and-basket unit in under 30 minutes. The components click or screw together with simple instructions – no special skills required.
Budget-Friendly: One thing I love as a designer on a budget is that JONAXEL won't break the bank. It's one of IKEA's most affordable storage systems, costing a fraction of other closet systems. This makes it perfect for renters, students, or anyone looking to organize without a huge investment.
With these qualities, JONAXEL strikes a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness. It's not a heavy built-in wardrobe, but that's the point – it's flexible and can be repurposed as your needs change. Now, let's look at how you can use JONAXEL in different rooms around the home, based on my own project experience.
An open wardrobe setup using twin tall JONAXEL units with mesh drawers and a hanging rod for clothes. This flexible closet solution keeps clothing and linens neatly organized and visible.
One of the most popular uses for JONAXEL is in bedrooms and closets. Instead of a traditional dresser or a fixed closet system, I installed a pair of tall JONAXEL units to create an open wardrobe. Each frame holds multiple wire baskets (which function like drawers for clothes, linens, or accessories) and even a hanger rod for shirts and dresses. The result is a custom closet organizer that's airy and easy to access.
In the photo above, you can see how JONAXEL serves as a freestanding wardrobe. I've used mesh drawers for folded items (like sweaters, t-shirts, and bedding) and added a horizontal bar to hang longer garments. Because JONAXEL components come in different widths and heights, you can tailor the setup to your space. For example, if you have a small alcove or corner in your bedroom, a narrow JONAXEL shelf unit (only about 25 cm/10″ wide for the smallest frame) can fit right inikea.com. On the other hand, if you're lucky enough to have a walk-in closet, you can line an entire wall with JONAXEL modules for a fraction of the cost of a custom closet system.
Practical benefits in the bedroom:
Easy organization: The slide-out baskets make it simple to sort clothing by type or season. I like to dedicate one basket for winter sweaters, one for summer tops, one for jeans, etc. They slide out smoothly like drawers, giving you easy access to everything.
Visibility: Since it's an open wardrobe, it encourages you to keep things tidy (your stuff is on display, after all). It's also motivating for outfit planning – you see your clothing collection every day. I sometimes add decorative storage boxes in the top basket for items I don't use often, which adds a nice aesthetic touch while hiding any clutter.
Flexibility: If you eventually decide to get a closed wardrobe, you can repurpose your JONAXEL in another room (say, move it to the garage or a pantry). It's not a permanent fixture, which is a huge plus for someone like me who rearranges furniture often.
For style, the white metal of JONAXEL is neutral and scandi-chic. You can leave it as-is for a clean, minimalist look, or dress it up by lining the baskets with fabric or adding wooden tops. In my project, I left the frames white and complemented them with warm wood hangers and a colorful rug to create a cozy yet organized dressing area. The open concept might not be for everyone (some people prefer doors to hide the clutter), but for me, it's a daily reminder to stay organized and it truly makes the room feel bigger and more open.
A compact laundry area equipped with side-by-side washing machines and a pair of JONAXEL drawer units for sorting clothes and linens. The open wire baskets make it easy to see and grab laundry items, perfect for a busy laundry room.
Another space where the IKEA JONAXEL storage system shines is the laundry room. I recently revamped a small laundry corner using JONAXEL, and it transformed how we sort and store laundry. In the photo, you can see two JONAXEL units placed adjacent to the washer and dryer. Each unit has five wire drawers, providing a total of ten pull-out baskets for organizing laundry essentials.
Here's how I used JONAXEL in the laundry area:
Sorting Baskets: I assigned each wire drawer a purpose – whites, darks, colors, delicates, clean towels, etc. Instead of laundry piles on the floor, everything lives in a basket now. The cool part is, the baskets are removable, so you can lift out an entire basket and carry it to wherever you need (say, to transport folded clothes to the bedroom). This removable-drawer feature has literally changed our laundry routine for the better – no more plastic laundry hampers scattered aroundapartmenttherapy.com.
Storage for Supplies: The top of the JONAXEL units can double as a countertop. I placed a sturdy laminate top board across the two units, creating a handy folding surface and a spot to keep detergent, fabric softener, and laundry supplies within arm's reach. If you don't add a top, you can also use the uppermost basket for bottles and dryer sheets so they're visible.
Fits Small Spaces: Our laundry "room" is actually just a nook. The slim profile of JONAXEL (each unit is about 50 cm/19″ wide) means we could fit two side by side even in a tight area. And because it's an open design, the space doesn't feel cramped. Even in a tiny apartment bathroom or closet, a single JONAXEL frame with a few baskets can serve as a mini laundry center. It's perfect for small space organization, where every inch counts.
One thing I love in the laundry context is that JONAXEL is moisture-resistant. The steel is powder-coated, so it won't rust with a bit of humidity from the washer or hanging damp clothes. The ventilated baskets also help air out damp towels. Maintenance is easy – a quick wipe-down keeps it clean, and any stray socks or lint don't accumulate in closed corners (as they might in a cabinet).
By introducing JONAXEL to the laundry room, we achieved a cleaner, more systematized setup. Laundry might never be fun, but at least now it's organized! The system turns a cluttered laundry heap into a streamlined part of the house. I highly recommend this approach if you have a laundry area that needs structure.
Bathrooms are often small spaces that require smart organization. This is another area where JONAXEL can be a hero, especially since it's designed to handle humidity. In a recent project, I used a narrow JONAXEL shelving unit in a bathroom to hold towels and toiletries. The unit I chose was the smallest frame with wire baskets, about 25 cm (10 inches) wide, which tucks neatly into an unused corner between the sink and shower. Even this tiny unit added three levels of storage where there was none before.
How JONAXEL helps in a bathroom:
Towel Storage: The wire baskets are great for rolled up towels or washcloths. Unlike a closed cabinet, the mesh lets air circulate, so even if you put a slightly damp towel in, it dries out ikea.com. No musty odors here – airflow is built in.
Toiletry Organization: I use one basket for extra toilet paper rolls, another for shampoos and lotions, and the top shelf for everyday items (toothbrush caddy, skincare products). Because everything is visible, you can immediately spot when supplies are running low. It also saves time digging through deep cabinets; everything is easy to find at a glance.
Optional Wheels: For the bathroom unit, we added castors (wheels) to the JONAXEL frame, turning it into a rolling cart. This is super convenient for cleaning – just roll it out when you need to mop the floor, then roll it back. It also means the storage can be moved or repositioned if needed (for instance, roll it next to the tub on bath days to reach your soaps and candles, then roll it back to the corner).
Aesthetically, JONAXEL's simple white frame works well in a bathroom because it feels light and clean. You can even pair it with IKEA's SKUBB boxes or other small baskets placed inside the mesh drawers to organize smaller items like cosmetics or medicines. This gives you the benefit of drawers and bins together.
If your bathroom is extremely tight on space, consider the JONAXEL mesh basket cart option – a pre-configured unit with three baskets and wheels. It's narrow and short enough to slide under some sinks or just stand beside the toilet. I've seen people use those as "spa carts" to hold candles, bath salts, and towels, which looks lovely and functional. The bottom line: even in a bathroom, JONAXEL can add storage where you thought none would fit.
Hallways and entryways set the first impression of your home, but they often become drop-zones for shoes, coats, and random items. I found that a simple JONAXEL setup can transform a cluttered hallway into a tidy, welcoming space. In one project, we removed a messy pile of shoes by the door and replaced it with a low JONAXEL combination: a two-drawer unit that's only about knee-high.
Hallway uses for JONAXEL:
Shoe Rack: The mesh drawers are ideal for shoes. Each drawer can hold several pairs, and because the mesh is breathable, it helps keep footwear (even the sweaty gym sneakers) aired out. We dedicated one drawer for each family member's everyday shoes. Now, instead of a heap by the door, each person knows exactly where to put and find their pair.
Hat and Glove Storage: In the top drawer, I placed baskets for gloves, hats, and scarves. This way, all the little winter accessories that used to get lost in our closet now have a home. When rushing out on a cold morning, you can see your beanies and grab one quickly.
Bench or Console: By adding a wooden top board to a low JONAXEL unit, it doubles as a bench where you can sit to tie your shoes. In our entryway, we put a nice piece of wood on top of the 2-drawer JONAXEL frame, and it became a small bench/console table. A cushion on top makes it a comfy seat, and the surface is also handy for dropping keys or mail as you come in.
For hallways without closets, a taller JONAXEL unit can serve as an open closet: use a frame with a clothes rail to hang coats, and a couple of baskets below for shoes and bags. This essentially creates a makeshift closet by the entry. You can even curtain it off if you want to hide the contents when guests come over.
One more tip: Since hallways are visible, consider styling your JONAXEL. In our project, the white metal looked great against a colored wall, and we added two decorative storage boxes in the top open shelf for a pop of color and concealed storage (for things like the dog leash and flashlight). A small rug in front of the unit completed the look. Now the entryway not only stays orderly, but also looks intentionally designed.
Children's rooms can go from tidy to tornado in minutes. The JONAXEL system is a parent's friend when it comes to organizing kids' clothes, toys, and books. I've used JONAXEL in a playroom to create a low storage unit that kids can access themselves – encouraging them to put toys away (well, we can hope!). The modular nature means you can start with a small unit and expand as the child grows.
Why JONAXEL works for kids:
Accessible Storage: For a toddler's room, I recommend a low JONAXEL frame (maybe 3 baskets high). Kids can see their toys through the mesh and pull out the drawers safely (the drawers don't have tracks that can pinch little fingers, and they won't slam shut). It's actually fun for them to have their own "cubby" for favorite toys. I labeled each drawer with pictures (legos, dolls, art supplies) so cleanup becomes a matching game.
Clothing Organization: Instead of a heavy dresser, a JONAXEL tower can hold kids' clothes. One drawer for shirts, one for pants, one for pajamas, etc. This system made it easier for one client's child to pick out their outfit – everything was visible at eye level. As a bonus, it lightened the look of the room compared to a bulky wooden dresser.
Adapts as They Grow: Kids' needs change quickly. Today it's toys and picture books, tomorrow it might be video games and school textbooks. JONAXEL's flexibility means you can rearrange the baskets or add more sections. In a teen's room, for example, you could add a hanging rod module for jackets and use baskets for school supplies or sports gear. Because the system is modular, you're not stuck with a one-purpose piece of furniture. It grows with your family.
Safety note: Always secure tall furniture around kids. If you build a tall JONAXEL unit in a child's room, consider anchoring it to the wall for stability (IKEA provides safety fittings for this). The open design is lightweight, but you want to ensure it never tips if a child tries to climb it. In my project, the unit was low and stable, so tipping wasn't an issue, and the kids loved being able to get their books out all by themselves.
From a design perspective, I kept the look playful by adding colorful fabric bins inside some of the mesh drawers to group small toys (like building blocks). The white frame is a neutral backdrop for any theme – whether you repaint the room or change the bedding, the storage will adapt. It's truly a versatile storage solution for the ever-changing landscape of a child's room.
Having used the JONAXEL system in multiple areas of the home, I want to highlight what really makes it stand out compared to other storage options:
Unmatched Flexibility: You can use JONAXEL anywhere. Few storage systems can jump from the closet to the laundry room to the bathroom and still make sense. JONAXEL does just that. Its neutral design and modular components mean it can serve as a closet organizer one day, and as pantry shelving or a garage storage unit the next. The ability to reconfigure (add or remove drawers, stack frames vertically or line them horizontally) is a huge advantage. It's like LEGO for home organization – and I've personally re-built and repurposed units as my needs changed.
Space-Saving Design: For city apartments and small homes, JONAXEL is a blessing. The units come in shallow depths and narrow widths, so they can sneak into tight spots. For example, the smallest 10″ deep frame can even slide into a nook or a tiny closet gap that would otherwise be wasted. You can create storage in "in-between" areas like a hallway alcove or behind a door. Stacking units vertically takes advantage of height instead of floor space. This small-space optimization is exactly what many of us need.
Affordable & DIY-Friendly: Custom built-in cabinetry looks beautiful but can cost thousands and often requires professional installation. In contrast, JONAXEL is a budget-friendly alternative that you can assemble yourself on a weekend. Each part is sold separately, so you can spread out the cost, building your system over time. I started with just one frame and two baskets in my laundry; later I bought an extra frame when I needed more drawers. This piecemeal approach is easier on the wallet, and you're not paying for storage you don't yet need.
Style and Aesthetics: While purely utilitarian at heart, JONAXEL has a minimalist style that fits well with modern interiors. The clean lines and white finish embody that Scandinavian simplicity IKEA is known for. In my designs, I've found that JONAXEL can either blend into the background or be styled to stand out. If you prefer a hidden look, you can tuck JONAXEL inside an existing closet or behind a curtain. If you like the open industrial vibe, leave it exposed and pair it with some indoor plants or decorative items on the top shelf. Either way, it doesn't fight with your decor. And because it's open, it kind of forces a bit of visual discipline that actually ends up looking stylish (think of those beautifully organized open pantries or closets you see on Pinterest – that's the look you can achieve).
Another point to note is JONAXEL vs. other IKEA systems. You might have heard of BOAXEL, which is another IKEA storage solution. To clarify, BOAXEL is a wall-mounted system (similar idea of shelves and rails but fixed to the wall). JONAXEL is free-standing, meaning it stands on the floor. The advantage of JONAXEL is you don't need to drill into walls, and you can move it around. BOAXEL might handle heavier loads on wall brackets, but JONAXEL wins for mobility and use in the middle of a room or rental apartments where wall-mounting is not an option. I have pictures of both in various rooms and can attest that both fit in almost any room needing storage, but JONAXEL gave me more freedom to reposition when I rearranged the space.
Ready to get started with JONAXEL? Here are a few tips from my experience to help plan your perfect modular storage IKEA setup:
Measure Your Space: Before buying, measure the area where you want to put JONAXEL. Note the height, width, and depth available. JONAXEL comes in a couple of widths and heights, so knowing your limits will help you choose the right frame. Don't forget to account for opening drawers – you'll need a little clearance in front.
Use the IKEA Planner: IKEA offers an online JONAXEL planner tool. I highly recommend using it. It's a simple drag-and-drop interface where you can build your custom combination, add baskets, shelves, rails, and see it in 3D. I played with the planner to compare different configurations (Do I want two narrow towers or one wide unit with many baskets? Should I add a hanger rod?). It really helps to visualize and ensure everything will fit before you drive to the store or place an order. (You can find the planner on IKEA's website – just search "JONAXEL planner" or use the link in this article.)
Start Small if Unsure: If you're not 100% sure how you want to use it, start with a small combo. You can buy one frame and a couple of baskets to see how it works for you. Because it's modular, you can add another frame or more baskets later to expand. For instance, begin with a single tower in the closet; if you love it, get a second one to put next to it. This way, you won't overspend upfront and you can adapt as you go.
Think of Accessories: JONAXEL is great on its own, but consider what accessories might make it even better for you. Some ideas: add castor wheels if you want mobility, add a topper (like a piece of wood or glass) if you want a flat surface on top, use fabric liners in the baskets if storing clothes that might snag, or insert bins/boxes inside the drawers to sort small items. In one of my setups, I put pretty rattan baskets inside a couple of the wire drawers to hide smaller items – it added a nice texture and kept tiny things from falling through the mesh.
Leverage Vertical Space: Don't be afraid to go tall with JONAXEL, especially if floor space is limited. It's designed to stack securely; the IKEA product description even notes that the smallest JONAXEL unit "fits almost anywhere, and you can create more storage by simply stacking units on top of each other." In my closet, the tall configuration (around 63″/160 cm high) used the full ceiling height, which maximized storage capacity. Just remember the tip about wall anchoring for safety if you stack high.
By planning with these tips in mind, you'll set yourself up for a smooth experience and a result that truly meets your needs.
Writing this after having hands-on experience, I can genuinely say the JONAXEL storage system from IKEA has been a game-changer in my home organization projects. It's professional yet friendly in its approach – by that I mean it offers a smart, design-forward solution (like a pro organizer would), but it's also approachable and easy for anyone to implement. My personal journey with JONAXEL, from the closet to the laundry room and beyond, has shown me just how much flexibility and functionality you can get from a relatively simple product.
If you're looking to streamline your space and declutter your home, JONAXEL is definitely worth considering. It's especially great for small apartments, studios, or any space where built-ins aren't practical. But even in larger homes, it serves as a versatile helper – an extra set of drawers here, a makeshift pantry there, or a kid-friendly cubby system in the playroom. The possibilities are endless, and you get to be the designer of your own storage solution.
Feel free to scroll through the photos I've included to see JONAXEL in action in different rooms. (All images are original, taken by me during my IKEA visits and home installs – so you're seeing real-life setups.) I hope this gives you inspiration on how to use this modular IKEA storage system to organize your own home. Trust me, once everything has its place, you'll wonder how you managed without it!
Happy organizing! And as always, if you have questions or want more tips, drop a comment – I'm here to help make your home design journey enjoyable and successful.
All photos and videos of the Jonaxel storage system are filmed by Mauritz Interior & Design at IKEA.
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