ᐅ Why do Malm drawers squeak when opened?

Palenar schrieb:
The squeaking in Malm drawers is technically the result of microscopic friction vibrations that occur when two surfaces, in your case usually metal against plastic or metal against metal, slide past each other.

Very well explained! To add to this: The combination of sliding movement and pressure on the plastic gliders creates localized stresses, which translate into vibrations and are heard as squeaking.

Additionally, the structural design of the drawer slides plays a role: Since Ikea Malm drawers are made with simple, cost-effective materials, standard handle solutions with basic runners are often used, which are not coated with a durable, low-friction surface.

The sliding elements themselves are often made of polyoxymethylene (POM), a technical plastic that is quite wear-resistant but still prone to slight deformation under pressure.

A common mistake when addressing these noise issues is using the wrong lubricants—oil sprays tend to attract dust and worsen the situation over time.

The best choice here is silicone-based or PTFE-containing lubricants. If possible, also check for slight alignment adjustments in the slides, as even small misalignments can increase pressure and cause squeaking.

Kinbu schrieb:
If these components are not properly lubricated or if dust and dirt accumulate, noise can occur during sliding.

That matches my experience well. The drawers of my Malm have actually been in use for several years, and I haven’t regularly maintained the runners. Dust is definitely present.

Palenar schrieb:
High humidity or temperature fluctuations can intensify the behavior of the materials.

That could also be a factor in my apartment, especially in winter when heating is on.

Thanks in advance for the tips regarding lubricants – I will probably get a silicone-based spray. Do you have any other recommendations or things I should look for when buying? And what do you think about special furniture glides as replacement parts? Are there suitable original parts for the Malm here, or is it more of a DIY solution?

ELDEO66 schrieb:
Do you have any recommendations on what I should look for when buying?

Here is a brief selection of criteria that can help you choose a good lubricant:

- Silicone-based: provides long-lasting lubrication without residue
- PTFE content (Teflon): significantly reduces friction
- Dry film: prevents dust buildup
- Suitable for both plastic and metal

There are furniture gliders available at hardware stores with these properties. Examples include "Würth PTFE furniture lubricant" or "Liqui Moly silicone spray."

Original parts for Malm are hard to find at Ikea, as original replacement parts are usually not sold individually. Usually, the DIY approach is recommended: you can use compatible runners or gliding pieces from the hardware store or order suitable rollers online.

sanjon schrieb:
Simply clean and lubricate with silicone spray or a little Vaseline.

I would not recommend Vaseline for plastic sliders, as it becomes sticky and attracts dust over time. Silicone spray is definitely the better choice.

Additionally, you can clean the drawer contact points with some dish soap and water, which helps remove old residue.

If that’s not enough, a slight adjustment of the drawer runners may help, because if the drawer doesn’t run precisely in its track, it often causes noise.

Finally, patience during cleaning and applying lubricant in small amounts is key, since too much lubricant can also cause problems.