ᐅ Care for Malm Furniture – How Can I Protect It from Scratches?

Created on: 19 Dec 2022 08:37
K
kausan
K
kausan
19 Dec 2022 08:37
Hello everyone, I recently purchased some furniture from the Malm series and want to protect it from scratches as best as possible. Since the surfaces are more lacquered or laminated, I’m concerned that they might be quite sensitive to everyday wear and tear from items like pens, keys, or even children’s hands.

I’m especially interested in which care products are best suited for this furniture and whether there are any specific protective measures I can take to prevent scratches or other damage without negatively affecting the appearance or feel.

Has anyone had experience with the Malm series and can offer tips on how to effectively protect this furniture from scratches? Perhaps advice on materials that can be used as a mat or protective layer, or how to clean the furniture correctly to preserve the surface?

I’m looking forward to your answers and experiences!
B
boelnu
19 Dec 2022 09:15
Hello kausan,

I completely understand how important protecting your new Malm furniture is to you. I have the same furniture myself and also find it a bit challenging to balance care and everyday use.

What has worked well for me is regularly cleaning with soft microfiber cloths to avoid fine scratches caused by coarse dirt. I also always use coasters on the tables, as water rings or hot cups can otherwise cause unpleasant marks.

However, I also feel that even light contact with sharp-edged objects can quickly leave small scratches. Do you mainly use the furniture in the living room or the bedroom?

If so, how have your experiences been with the surface so far?
K
KARJU
19 Dec 2022 10:02
Hello kausan,

To prevent scratches on Malm furniture, I recommend the following:

1. Use felt pads on the feet of items placed on the surface, such as vases or lamps. This significantly reduces the risk of abrasion.

2. Clean regularly with a damp, slightly moistened microfiber cloth. Avoid aggressive cleaning agents containing solvents or alcohol.

3. If needed, a specialized furniture care spray for lacquered surfaces can be used, but it should be tested first on an inconspicuous area.

4. Protect work surfaces with placemats or transparent plastic sheets when working with items like pens.

5. Avoid placing keys or sharp objects directly on the surface, as they can cause scratches.

Sealing with wax is not recommended for Malm furniture made of laminated particleboard, as it may alter the material.

I hope these tips are helpful.
T
Tatovin
19 Dec 2022 11:37
Important: Do not use abrasive cleaners!

Felt pads under furniture are essential.

Also: Avoid dragging sharp edges across surfaces.
K
kausan
19 Dec 2022 14:05
KARJU schrieb:
Avoid aggressive cleaning agents containing solvents or alcohol.

That’s a good tip, thanks. Could you perhaps specify which ingredients I should avoid in case of doubt, or if there are any commonly known products that should definitely not be used? I’m a bit uncertain because I’ve read that some cleaners are unsuitable for films or painted surfaces.
boelnu schrieb:
I always use coasters on the tables, as water stains or hot cups can cause unpleasant damage otherwise.

Do you use specific types of coasters, or would you rather recommend flexible or rigid options? From your point of view, are there any disadvantages linked to certain materials?
B
bupar
19 Dec 2022 15:18
In addition to the tips already mentioned: when cleaning Malm furniture, it is essential to use pH-neutral cleaning agents.

These best protect the films or lacquer layers from chemical damage. Highly alkaline or acidic cleaners, as well as any containing solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or turpentine, are unsuitable because they attack the surfaces.

For protection against scratches, transparent protective films that can be cut to fit precisely are the most effective. These are especially useful for desks or bedside tables, as they protect the surface directly without significantly altering the look.

One more tip: if the furniture is in a children's room, tablecloths or sturdy fabric covers also help protect the surface.