The IKEA STUVA and SMÅSTAD systems appear very similar, but the most important difference is that SMÅSTAD is the newer, redesigned system that replaced the discontinued STUVA line in 2021. While SMÅSTAD improves on assembly, safety, and compatibility with other IKEA systems, STUVA is now only available on secondhand markets. The parts are not interchangeable, so mixing components from both lines is not a straightforward option.
This guide explains what makes each system unique to help you decide which one is right for your home, whether you're buying new or sourcing used furniture.
IKEA STUVA Storage System
The STUVA system was IKEA's long-running and incredibly popular modular storage collection designed primarily for children's rooms. It earned a loyal following for its versatility, allowing parents to create customized wardrobes, desks, and toy storage that could adapt as their kids grew. Known for its clean lines and simple mix-and-match components, STUVA is now a common find on secondhand marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and eBay.
- What it is: A discontinued modular storage system for children, often found secondhand.
- Key features: Highly customizable with various frame heights, depths, and numerous door and drawer front styles (like FRITIDS). Commonly paired with STUVA GRUNDLIG interiors.
- Price (Legacy): Originally positioned as a budget-friendly system, similar in price to the current SMÅSTAD line.
- Style: Modern, minimalist Scandinavian design that blends easily into contemporary interiors, especially kids' rooms and play areas.
- Materials/Construction: Built from particleboard with a foil finish and painted surfaces, designed for typical household use.
- Pros: Wide availability on secondhand markets allows for very affordable setups. Its track record proves it's a flexible system. Many different color combinations were originally produced.
- Cons: Discontinued, meaning you cannot buy new frames, doors, or replacement parts from IKEA. Edges and corners are sharper than on the newer SMÅSTAD. Assembly can be more time-consuming using traditional cam-lock hardware.
STUVA is a great option if you find a complete configuration in good condition for a low price, but just know that expanding or repairing it in the future will be a challenge.
Shop this product: Available secondhand on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.
IKEA SMÅSTAD Storage System
The SMÅSTAD system is IKEA's current and improved modular children's storage solution and the direct replacement for STUVA. It maintains the customizable spirit of STUVA but incorporates significant upgrades focused on child safety, easier assembly, and better integration with other modern IKEA systems. With softer corners and updated hardware, SMÅSTAD is designed for the modern family's needs.
- What it is: The current modular and customizable children's storage and furniture line available at IKEA.
- Key features: Enhanced child-safety features like rounded corners and enclosed/recessed handles. Uses wedge dowels for a much faster and simpler "click" assembly. Frame heights have been adjusted (e.g., 60, 120, 180 cm).
- Price: Ranges from around $30 for small components to $200+ for larger wardrobes or loft bed combinations.
- Dimensions: Offered in standard heights and widths to fit various spaces, designed to be perfectly modular.
- Materials/Construction: A mix of particleboard and fibreboard with paper foil and/or acrylic paint finishes.
- Interior Compatibility: Fully compatible with the widely available HJÄLPA and PLATSA series of interior organizers, offering more long-term flexibility.
- Pros: Readily available in stores and online. Superior safety features make it a better choice for young children. Far easier and quicker to build. Future-proof with the ability to buy new parts and add on later.
- Cons: Parts are not backwards-compatible with the STUVA system. Some specific configurations or colors from the STUVA line are no longer available.
The SMÅSTAD system is the definitive choice for anyone buying new children's storage, prioritizing safety, ease of assembly, and long-term expandability.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/cat/smastad-system-46603/
STUVA vs. SMÅSTAD Comparison
Compatibility & Interchangeability
This is the most critical factor for shoppers. Despite their similar appearance, STUVA and SMÅSTAD parts are NOT compatible. IKEA changed the frame dimensions, hinge placements, and pre-drilled holes for shelves and drawers between the two systems.
You cannot put SMÅSTAD doors on a STUVA frame or vice versa without significant modifications that IKEA does not support. If you own STUVA, you can only expand your system with other secondhand STUVA pieces.
Design & Safety
Safety is a clear differentiator where SMÅSTAD comes out on top. The STUVA system featured sharper, more defined corners on its frames and doors. Recognizing the need for a more child-friendly design, IKEA gave the SMÅSTAD system noticeably rounded corners and edges to reduce the risk of bumps and scrapes.
Additionally, SMÅSTAD incorporates more thoughtful handle designs, such as fully recessed pulls or small knobs that are less likely to be bumped into. This focus on small but important safety details makes SMÅSTAD a better choice for playrooms and bedrooms for young children.
Assembly Process
The assembly process for SMÅSTAD is a huge improvement over STUVA. The older STUVA system relied on IKEA's traditional collection of screws and cam-lock nuts, which could be cumbersome and time-consuming. SMÅSTAD utilizes IKEA’s modern click-and-wedge dowel technology for many connections.
This innovation allows frames to be clicked together quickly and securely with fewer tools and less guesswork, significantly cutting down on build time and frustration. If ease of assembly is a major priority, SMÅSTAD is the clear winner.
Modularity & Customization
Both systems are highly modular, which was always a key selling point. However, SMÅSTAD has a distinct advantage in its integration with other current IKEA systems. Its frames are designed to use interior organizers from the versatile HJÄLPA line, part of the PLATSA storage family. This gives you many more options for shelves, drawers, and clothes rails that are guaranteed to fit correctly and continue to be available for years.
STUVA's customization is now completely frozen in time, you're limited to whatever configurations, colors, and interior parts you can find on the used market.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, your choice is between sourcing an older, discontinued system secondhand or buying the safer, easier-to-build, current version new.
Choose STUVA (secondhand) if:
- You already own a STUVA collection and just need to add another complete unit you found secondhand.
- You've found a full STUVA set in good condition on a marketplace for a fantastic price.
- You're on a very tight budget and aren't concerned with future expandability.
- You are confident inspecting used furniture for wear, tear, and missing parts.
Choose SMÅSTAD if:
- You are buying new furniture for a child's room or playroom.
- Child safety features like rounded corners and better handles are a top priority for you.
- You want a fast, simple, and frustration-free assembly experience.
- You want the ability to add on, modify, or buy replacement parts in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between STUVA and SMÅSTAD?
The main difference is that STUVA is a discontinued system now only available secondhand and SMÅSTAD is its current, updated replacement. SMÅSTAD features improved safety (rounded corners), easier assembly (click system), and uses IKEA's modern PLATSA/HJÄLPA interior organizers, while STUVA does not.
Are STUVA and SMÅSTAD compatible?
No, they are not compatible. Doors, drawers, frames, and shelves cannot be interchanged between the two systems because the dimensions and hole placements for hardware like hinges and drawer runners are different.
Why was IKEA STUVA discontinued?
IKEA phased out STUVA around 2021 to introduce the SMÅSTAD system, which incorporates improved safety standards, a more consumer-friendly assembly process, and better compatibility with its current modular organization lines.
Can I still buy STUVA parts?
No, STUVA components are no longer sold at IKEA. The only way to find parts, doors, or frames is to search secondhand marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
Is SMÅSTAD better than STUVA?
Yes, for anyone buying new, SMÅSTAD is objectively better. It is safer for children, significantly easier to build, and is part of IKEA's current product ecosystem, ensuring future availability of parts and accessories.
Is SMÅSTAD durable?
Like most IKEA children's furniture, SMÅSTAD pieces are made from particleboard and fiberboard. They are designed to withstand regular use by children for many years but are not intended for extremely heavy loads or rough treatment.
What interior organizers fit in SMÅSTAD?
The SMÅSTAD system is fully compatible with the HJÄLPA series of interior organizers, which is also used in the PLATSA wardrobe system. This includes shelves, wire baskets, and clothes rails.
Should I buy a used STUVA loft bed?
Be cautious. Check the bed thoroughly for stability, wear and tear, and ensure all original hardware is present, as replacement parts are unavailable. Also, search online for any past safety recalls associated with the specific model before purchasing.
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