ᐅ Why does the drawer slide in the MALM dresser not always work properly?
Created on: 13 Jul 2021 18:37
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Gla_neoHello everyone,
Over the past few weeks, I’ve noticed that the drawer slides on my IKEA Malm dresser set don’t always operate smoothly. Specifically, the drawer sometimes gets stuck or doesn’t fully extend, even though there don’t seem to be any obvious mechanical obstructions.
I suspect that the issue might be related to the design of the runners or the material quality, but I’m not sure. Has anyone experienced this problem? Are there known weak points or common causes that lead to the Malm drawer slides not running smoothly?
Also, I’m interested in recommended solutions to improve the function permanently, or whether it’s better to switch entirely to alternative models or retrofit options. Thanks in advance for your insights and tips!
Over the past few weeks, I’ve noticed that the drawer slides on my IKEA Malm dresser set don’t always operate smoothly. Specifically, the drawer sometimes gets stuck or doesn’t fully extend, even though there don’t seem to be any obvious mechanical obstructions.
I suspect that the issue might be related to the design of the runners or the material quality, but I’m not sure. Has anyone experienced this problem? Are there known weak points or common causes that lead to the Malm drawer slides not running smoothly?
Also, I’m interested in recommended solutions to improve the function permanently, or whether it’s better to switch entirely to alternative models or retrofit options. Thanks in advance for your insights and tips!
Gla_neo, this is a common and valid question regarding MALM dressers.
The issue with sticking or slow-moving drawers is often caused by the basic roller rails or low-capacity runners IKEA uses for MALM. While these are cost-effective and easy to install, they tend to jam under heavier loads or irregular use.
Here is a brief overview of potential causes and solutions:
1. Installation: Check if the runners are installed straight and without any tension. Even slight twisting can cause the drawers to stick.
2. Load: Is the drawer too heavy or unevenly loaded? Excess weight or uneven distribution often leads to problems.
3. Dirt: Dust or small particles can accumulate in the runners and hinder smooth movement.
4. Wear and tear: After extended use, plastic rollers or rails can wear down and cause uneven sliding.
A proven solution is to replace the original metal rollers with metal or ball-bearing runners, which are available as retrofit kits. These are much more durable and provide smoother operation.
If replacement is not possible, regular cleaning of the runners and occasional lubrication with silicone spray (not oil, which attracts dust) can help.
In summary: The cause usually lies in the combination of lightweight runners and installation errors or load issues. Improvements are possible but require some effort.
The issue with sticking or slow-moving drawers is often caused by the basic roller rails or low-capacity runners IKEA uses for MALM. While these are cost-effective and easy to install, they tend to jam under heavier loads or irregular use.
Here is a brief overview of potential causes and solutions:
1. Installation: Check if the runners are installed straight and without any tension. Even slight twisting can cause the drawers to stick.
2. Load: Is the drawer too heavy or unevenly loaded? Excess weight or uneven distribution often leads to problems.
3. Dirt: Dust or small particles can accumulate in the runners and hinder smooth movement.
4. Wear and tear: After extended use, plastic rollers or rails can wear down and cause uneven sliding.
A proven solution is to replace the original metal rollers with metal or ball-bearing runners, which are available as retrofit kits. These are much more durable and provide smoother operation.
If replacement is not possible, regular cleaning of the runners and occasional lubrication with silicone spray (not oil, which attracts dust) can help.
In summary: The cause usually lies in the combination of lightweight runners and installation errors or load issues. Improvements are possible but require some effort.
LANICOLE schrieb:
Installation: Check whether the rails are installed straight and free of tension. This really should be the first step. Especially with MALM, I've often seen that the drawers don’t fit perfectly at the back. A little adjustment usually helps immediately.
LANICOLE schrieb:
Lubricant: Use silicone spray. Exactly, just avoid anything oily, otherwise it will only get worse.
I can relate, I once had the same issue with my MALM dresser. My solution? Just don’t overload the drawers to their maximum capacity and make sure to always open and close them straight.
A tip from me: a bit of patience and care during assembly goes a long way. 😉 The MALM series is known for its affordable price, but sometimes you need to put in a little extra effort and fine-tune things.
This can simply be caused by slight dirt or minor alignment issues. I’ve also noticed that with a little practice, this problem tends to resolve almost on its own.
A tip from me: a bit of patience and care during assembly goes a long way. 😉 The MALM series is known for its affordable price, but sometimes you need to put in a little extra effort and fine-tune things.
Gla_neo schrieb:
That the drawer occasionally gets stuck or doesn’t fully extend, even though there are no obvious mechanical obstructions
This can simply be caused by slight dirt or minor alignment issues. I’ve also noticed that with a little practice, this problem tends to resolve almost on its own.
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