Hello everyone, I have Malm drawers from Ikea, which unfortunately have developed some stubborn stains over time, mainly dirt-related discolorations. Most of these are dark spots caused by everyday use, such as dirt from hands or from storing certain items. My question is: What is the best way to remove these stains without damaging the surface of the Malm drawers? I am especially interested in a method that is both effective and as gentle as possible on the material. Also, it would be great if you could share tips on which cleaning products are particularly suitable or should be avoided. Thanks in advance for your help!
Hello everyone! Alfonso, I have prepared a small guide for you on how to gently remove dirt-related stains from your Malm drawers:
1. Remove dust and loose dirt with a dry microfiber cloth.
2. Prepare a mild soapy solution, for example using a neutral dish detergent and lukewarm water.
3. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out well so it is only slightly damp.
4. Gently wipe the stain without pressing or rubbing.
5. If the stain does not come off, try a small, inconspicuous area first with a cloth lightly moistened with isopropanol (alcohol).
6. After treatment with alcohol, be sure to wipe again with a clean, slightly damp cloth.
7. Immediately dry the surface with a clean cloth.
Common mistakes: using too much water, rubbing too hard, or using harsh cleaning agents that can damage the foil finish.
I hope this step-by-step guide helps you!
1. Remove dust and loose dirt with a dry microfiber cloth.
2. Prepare a mild soapy solution, for example using a neutral dish detergent and lukewarm water.
3. Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring it out well so it is only slightly damp.
4. Gently wipe the stain without pressing or rubbing.
5. If the stain does not come off, try a small, inconspicuous area first with a cloth lightly moistened with isopropanol (alcohol).
6. After treatment with alcohol, be sure to wipe again with a clean, slightly damp cloth.
7. Immediately dry the surface with a clean cloth.
Common mistakes: using too much water, rubbing too hard, or using harsh cleaning agents that can damage the foil finish.
I hope this step-by-step guide helps you!
I
Issac_kla214 Mar 2018 12:37merlin52 schrieb:
typische Fehler: zu viel Wasser nehmen, zu stark reiben oder scharfe Reinigunsmittel verwendenI think the recommendations are way too cautious! Sure, Malm isn’t solid wood, but the laminate surface is quite durable. Just clean it properly with dish soap, and if needed, use a sponge with a bit more pressure – the surface can handle it. If you always clean so delicately, you might as well not bother removing the stains effectively.
Issac_kla2 schrieb:
Just clean it properly with dish soap, if necessary use a sponge and apply a bit more pressure Issac, I see it differently! 🙂 If you press too hard, you risk scratches or dull spots – and that looks really unattractive afterward. It's better to proceed carefully and be patient; the result will be worth it!
A
alfonso1015 Mar 2018 09:16dota57 schrieb:
mild cleaning agent like denatured alcohol diluted with water 1:10 Thanks for the tip, I’d like to try that. Just to be safe, I have a question: Is there any reason not to use isopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol undiluted? Of course, I don’t want to cause any invisible damage to the film.merlin52 schrieb:
Tip: Always test on an inconspicuous area first I’ll definitely do that!Issac_kla2 schrieb:
I think the recommendations are way too cautious! I see both sides, but I lean toward being cautious because the surface is important to me. Thanks everyone for the helpful input, I’ll carefully experiment now and report back when I have success!Similar topics