My $20 Standing Desk Hack!
This article was originally published in October 2017 from my original blog on my old portfolio site.
I have become accustomed to standing throughout my workday. I first got started a few years ago when the company I worked for at the time, gave us the option to use Veridesks. I ended up enjoying standing and found that it helped keep me focused, and helped relieve back pain caused by poor posture. Since I did not have the option for a stand-up desk with one of my previous employers, I decided to put together a cheap yet effective alternative using IKEA furniture and parts.
What to Buy for the IKEA Standing Desk Hack
To put this IKEA hack together you will need the LACK side table, the EKBY ÖSTEN shelf, and EKBY STÖDIS brackets.
LACK Side Table
The LACK Side Table will run you $9.99. This is where you will place your computer monitor and desk items.
EKBY ÖSTEN Shelf
The EKBY ÖSTEN shelf will cost you $6.99. The shelf is where you will place your keyboard and mouse. It is not absolutely necessary but gives you the option to have a more natural hand position that is offset from the top of the desk area.
EKBY STÖDIS Brackets
You will need two of these brackets, one on each front leg of the LACK side table. They are 50 cents each.
Total Cost for IKEA Equipment
LACK Side Table + EKBY ÖSTEN shelf + (2 * EKBY STÖDIS brackets) = $9.99 + $6.99 + (2 * $0.50) = $17.98
You will need to purchase screws to complete the desk, but it should still keep the price under $20.
What Else You Will Need
You will need wood screws & anchors for the holes, an electric drill with drill bits & screw bits, and a level. The level will help you ensure that the brackets are even, so the shelf stays plum.
Putting Together the Desk
Putting the desk together took me 15 to 20 minutes. It's a relatively quick process if you have all the right tools.
Put together the LACK side table by screwing in the legs
Position the shelf in front of the side table and determine where you want your hand position to be offset from the top of the side table.
Mark off where the top of the brackets will be
Arrange the brackets then mark off where the pilot holes will be needed, by circling the holes for each screw.
Drill the holes and reinforce them with the anchors.
Screw in the brackets
Place the shelf on top of the brackets, and ensure that that it is level
Once you have lined up the shelf where you want it, secure it by drilling screws into the brackets
The finished product will look something like this:
Additional Tips
If you end up being like me and you get accustomed to standing all day, then I highly recommend that you get a compression mat to make standing more comfortable.
If you end up wanting to push yourself a bit more and add some fitness to your standing on occasion, then I recommend a balance board.
Happy standing!