ᐅ How can I replace a faulty Malm drawer slide myself?

Created on: 11 May 2022 08:37
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onnimin
O
onnimin
11 May 2022 08:37
Hello everyone,

I have a Malm dresser from IKEA at home, and one of the drawer slides is faulty. Specifically, the running rails get stuck when opening, and the drawer no longer pulls out smoothly. I want to replace the defective drawer slide myself, as hiring a technician would be too expensive, and I already have most of the necessary tools. My question is:

What is the best way to properly remove and replace the faulty Malm drawer slide on my own?

- What exact tools do I need for this?
- Is there a particular order or any tips on how to remove the drawer and slide components without causing further damage?
- Do I have to use replacement parts from IKEA, or are there compatible alternatives?

I would appreciate a detailed step-by-step guide or any advice on common mistakes. It would be great if someone could share their experience.

Thank you very much in advance!
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Benge5
11 May 2022 09:05
Hello,

first of all: Replacing the drawer slides on the Malm dresser is generally quite manageable if you follow some basic steps. Here is a structured procedure:

1. Tools: Screwdriver (usually Phillips), possibly an Allen key, and pliers.
2. Remove the drawer: Pull the drawer out slowly. Depending on the model, there are usually small levers or stops on the sides that need to be pressed inward to fully release the drawer.
3. Loosen the slides: The runner rails are fixed with small screws. Remove them completely.
4. Install the new slide: Mount the new rail using the same screw holes. Pay attention to the orientation – there is usually a top and bottom side.
5. Reinsert the drawer and check functionality: Test the smoothness of operation and adjust if necessary.

Regarding spare parts: I recommend original parts from IKEA, as they fit precisely. Compatible alternatives are rarer and often do not fit exactly.
onnimin schrieb:
Welche Werkzeuge braucht man dafür genau?

All you really need: a screwdriver and patience.
onnimin schrieb:
Gibt es eine bestimmte Reihenfolge oder Tipps, wie man die Schublade und Führungsteile ausbaut?

Yes, always remove the drawer first, then unscrew everything to prevent external damage.

Precision and patience are key here.
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gasidney
11 May 2022 09:22
Pull the drawer all the way out, press the side levers, unscrew the rail, screw on the new one, done.
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dijan
12 May 2022 11:14
Hey!

I had the same issue recently and can say: stay calm and take a relaxed approach – it works! 😊

A brief summary of my experience: Sometimes the screws are a bit tighter, so don’t be surprised if they’re hard to turn. Also, if you carefully wiggle the guide again, you can often feel exactly what’s sticking. Then remove the old one, insert the new one – easy!

Tools: screwdriver, and a little oil for stuck parts never hurts. And very important: after reassembling, pull the drawer fully in and out several times so everything settles properly.

Good luck! 🙂
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Lamar
13 May 2022 14:47
gasidney schrieb:
Pull the drawer completely out, press the side levers, unscrew the rail, screw on the new one, done.

Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple. You need a precise fit, and especially with older Malm models, warping issues can occur. IKEA has also sometimes used lower-quality materials, causing screws to wear out faster or rails to break.
Benge5 schrieb:
Compatible alternatives are rarer and often don’t fit exactly.

That is true, but why not consider using a sturdier metal slide from a hardware store? Sure, it may look different, but it’s often more durable in the long run.

Overall, I think many people too quickly order the original replacement parts without seriously considering alternatives. Sometimes you have to think outside the box.

Just a suggestion to consider.