The Brilliant Yet Mind-Blowingly Simple IKEA Hack Taking Over Instagram

IKEA hacks come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. There are the all-in IKEA hacks, like a wall-spanning set of built-ins made from BILLY bookcases. There are the afternoon-sized projects, like redoing a HEMNES dresser or sprucing up a plain IKEA STÄLL shoe rack. And then there are the teeny tiny IKEA hacks that are so simple that they can be done in the span of a commercial break. This genius use of the IKEA SMARRA lidded box to hide cords and cable boxes is one of those.

The trick has been popping up all over Instagram, with savvy hackers from Australia to Germany and beyond using the $14.99 SMARRA to hide WiFi modems (as shown above) and cable boxes. The instructions are seriously simple. First, get a SMARRA with measurements that will contain your router or cable box. Then, place your item inside and use a pencil to mark where your wires exit. After that, snip away that section with a pair of scissors before feeding the wires through and placing the lid on top. The lightweight and loosely woven basket will mask the look of your electronics while also ensuring signals can pass through. And that’s it! That’s the whole project!

Instagrammers have left the basket in its natural light wood tone, but you could also paint or stain it if you want a different look in your own home. Even with some added steps, this hack can still be started and finished on a lazy afternoon.

Want more IKEA inspiration? Check out these ideas for IKEA hacks that have a high-end look for a bargain price, and these IKEA hacks that are all about bold color.