Hello everyone, I have several Malm dressers from Ikea at home that unfortunately have become quite loud and squeaky when opening or closing the drawers. I’m interested in what would be the best way to eliminate this squeaking. Is there a specific type of lubricant recommended for this, or maybe technical details on how the drawer slides should be cleaned or treated to achieve a long-lasting quiet operation? I have some knowledge of furniture mechanics and would like to develop a durable solution because the noise is really annoying. Basement room temperatures or humidity might also have an influence, if anyone has experience with that. Thanks in advance for any tips!
To prevent squeaking in Malm dressers, I recommend the following steps: First, fully pull out the drawers and check the runners for any dirt or debris. Clean them with a soft cloth and some isopropyl alcohol to remove old lubricant residues. Afterward, use a high-quality silicone grease or spray, as it doesn’t harden or attract dust. A thin layer is enough to reduce friction. Additionally, check for any loose screws in the drawer or frame area and tighten them if necessary, since mechanical play can cause squeaking. Indoor humidity usually has little effect on metal runners but can affect wooden parts, causing them to swell. Following this procedure should provide a lasting solution to the problem.
I can really relate to this problem – the constant squeaking of my Malm drawers was very annoying, especially since I often need quick access to my things in the morning. In my opinion, it’s important not to stress and to patiently treat the individual drawer slides.
I tried that as well, and it really helped. Sometimes I was worried that the spray might damage something if it got into the mechanism, but it worked fine for me.
Are you wondering if you should completely disassemble the drawers? I just pulled them out and treated the visible rails, which didn’t require any special tools.
Devin schrieb:
The most effective solution is silicone spray
I tried that as well, and it really helped. Sometimes I was worried that the spray might damage something if it got into the mechanism, but it worked fine for me.
Are you wondering if you should completely disassemble the drawers? I just pulled them out and treated the visible rails, which didn’t require any special tools.
A brief addition regarding lubricants: Silicone spray is recommended because it is compatible with rubber and plastics and does not cause sticking. It is important not to use too much lubricant, as excess can attract dust.
If the squeaking noise comes from plastic rollers or guide mechanisms, I suggest applying a drop of special grease designed for plastic bearings to the rollers themselves. WD-40 is primarily a penetrating oil and is not the best choice for long-lasting lubrication; it does remove rust but does not provide reliable, permanent lubrication.
Thorough cleaning before applying the lubricant is essential to ensure its effectiveness and to avoid trapping dirt particles.
If the squeaking noise comes from plastic rollers or guide mechanisms, I suggest applying a drop of special grease designed for plastic bearings to the rollers themselves. WD-40 is primarily a penetrating oil and is not the best choice for long-lasting lubrication; it does remove rust but does not provide reliable, permanent lubrication.
Thorough cleaning before applying the lubricant is essential to ensure its effectiveness and to avoid trapping dirt particles.
The following method has proven effective as well: open the drawers and fully expose the runners. Remove any residue of old lubricant using a lint-free cloth and a mild cleaner. Then apply a thin layer of silicone spray and let it sit for about 10 minutes. After that, move the drawer back and forth several times to distribute the lubricant.
In addition to lubrication, it is important to check and, if necessary, tighten all screws. Sometimes squeaking noises occur because screws are not tightened enough, causing parts to rub against each other slightly.
In addition to lubrication, it is important to check and, if necessary, tighten all screws. Sometimes squeaking noises occur because screws are not tightened enough, causing parts to rub against each other slightly.
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