ᐅ IKEA Malm Nightstand Finish Peeling – How to Repair It?

Hello everyone,

I have a problem with my IKEA Malm bedside table where the color or surface is starting to peel off at some edges. Specifically, it’s the matte finish on the sides that peels or has small spots where the surface seems to chip off, especially in high-wear areas like the edges.

I’d like to repair this as neatly as possible, and I would appreciate any tips on how to do this so that the repair is not very noticeable and the surface isn’t damaged further. Are there any proven methods or materials suitable for this type of repair?

I’m very grateful for any advice, maybe someone has successfully fixed something like this before.

Hello tedige,

I’m familiar with your issue, as the Malm series is covered with a plastic foil that can easily tear or peel at the edges. Here is a structured approach that worked well for me:

1. Cleaning: First, gently clean the area with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease. This is essential for new material to adhere properly.

2. Trim damaged foil edges: Carefully trim any small loose edges with a craft knife or fine scissors to prevent further tearing.

3. Repair with suitable materials: For matte surfaces, wax or filler sticks in matching colors (available for furniture) work well. Alternatively, very fine pigment paint or special adhesive for foil can be used.

4. Finishing: Finally, gently polish the repaired area with a soft cloth to make the transitions as inconspicuous as possible.

Caution: Avoid harsh solvents or strong adhesives, as they can damage the surface.

If you decide to use paint, I recommend spray paints designed for furniture that specifically adhere to plastic foil.

If you like, please describe the size of the damaged areas in more detail, and I can provide more targeted help.

I would simply use fine-grit sandpaper and a suitable furniture touch-up pen. Then seal it with clear varnish. Done.

Oh yes, I had that problem too! What helped me was using furniture wax sticks in the matching color, which really saved my Malm nightstands :-) ! It’s super easy and afterward they look almost like new!! Good luck, you can do it!

Hello,

I completely agree with Nabla64 because proper preparation is really important when working with these films. Be sure to carefully remove any loose edges before repairing; otherwise, it will quickly become untidy again.

Wax sticks are indeed suitable for small areas but are not very durable under heavy use. A more long-lasting protection can be achieved by applying a clear, matte furniture varnish with a brush – use as little as possible and apply very thinly.

If you want to reapply the films along the edges completely, there are extra thin films available that can be applied with waterproof contact adhesive.

Use a furniture touch-up marker in the matching color, apply it to the damaged area, and allow it to dry thoroughly. For improved durability, you can later apply a clear varnish.