Some time ago, I bought a MALM chest of drawers set from IKEA and am very satisfied with its appearance and value for money. However, I have noticed that especially on surfaces frequently exposed to water – such as next to the sink in the guest bathroom or on the dresser in the bedroom – water stains form quite easily and are difficult to remove. Therefore, I’m interested in how to best protect MALM surfaces from water stains without damaging the finish or leaving unattractive residues. Are there any recommended care products or home remedies? And what should I generally avoid to prevent damaging the wood finish? I look forward to your experiences and tips!
Hey BIRGITME, it’s great that you’re already thinking about how to best protect the MALM surfaces! :-) I’ve had very similar experiences with my MALM dressers – water stains can be really annoying! My top tip: regularly use furniture wax or a special wood wax for IKEA furniture. It creates a protective layer that repels moisture and is gentle on the surface.
Another simple trick that works really well for me: always place a coaster or felt pad under flower vases, glasses, or decorations when they come into contact with water – this helps prevent stains from the start! I believe a bit of prevention works wonders. Good luck and feel free to share how it goes for you! 🙂
BIRGITME schrieb:
How can I best protect MALM surfaces from water stains without damaging the surface or leaving unattractive residues?
Another simple trick that works really well for me: always place a coaster or felt pad under flower vases, glasses, or decorations when they come into contact with water – this helps prevent stains from the start! I believe a bit of prevention works wonders. Good luck and feel free to share how it goes for you! 🙂
R
REOHEINRIC1 Mar 2021 15:12From a technical perspective, MALM furniture often features a painted or melamine-coated surface that generally provides some water resistance but can be vulnerable to prolonged or direct exposure to moisture.
To prevent water stains, I recommend:
1. Avoiding standing water by wiping it up immediately.
2. Using protective pads such as felt or rubber mats under containers.
3. Occasionally applying a specialized furniture care product, preferably water-based and suitable for coated surfaces.
Using wax on melamine-coated surfaces is generally unnecessary and may sometimes leave residues. Avoid using harsh cleaners containing alcohol or abrasives, as these can roughen or damage the surface.
Wax is usually not suitable for coated surfaces because it does not bond well.
In summary, the best way to prevent stains is to react quickly to moisture and to create barriers between water and the surface.
To prevent water stains, I recommend:
1. Avoiding standing water by wiping it up immediately.
2. Using protective pads such as felt or rubber mats under containers.
3. Occasionally applying a specialized furniture care product, preferably water-based and suitable for coated surfaces.
Using wax on melamine-coated surfaces is generally unnecessary and may sometimes leave residues. Avoid using harsh cleaners containing alcohol or abrasives, as these can roughen or damage the surface.
ixlu1 schrieb:
Use furniture wax regularly or special wood wax for IKEA furniture.
Wax is usually not suitable for coated surfaces because it does not bond well.
In summary, the best way to prevent stains is to react quickly to moisture and to create barriers between water and the surface.
I can well understand how frustrating water stains on MALM surfaces can be, especially when you like the piece of furniture and want to keep it clean. I felt the same way and was uneasy for a while because I thought I was doing something wrong.
This actually made me feel uncertain because, at the same time, I had bad experiences with the cleaner from IKEA. That’s why I decided to use only a very mild soapy water solution with a soft cloth and then wipe it dry immediately.
My feeling is that you have to respect the wood and especially avoid frequent contact with water.
What also helped: those small silicone coasters. Sure, they aren’t very stylish, but they really protect and don’t leave marks. And when something spills, everything can be wiped off quickly without stains. I find it reassuring that you don’t necessarily need special products – sometimes less is more.
REOHEINRIC schrieb:
Wax is usually not suitable for coated surfaces, as it doesn’t adhere well.
This actually made me feel uncertain because, at the same time, I had bad experiences with the cleaner from IKEA. That’s why I decided to use only a very mild soapy water solution with a soft cloth and then wipe it dry immediately.
My feeling is that you have to respect the wood and especially avoid frequent contact with water.
What also helped: those small silicone coasters. Sure, they aren’t very stylish, but they really protect and don’t leave marks. And when something spills, everything can be wiped off quickly without stains. I find it reassuring that you don’t necessarily need special products – sometimes less is more.
Water stains on MALM furniture can be really frustrating, but hey – you can definitely win the battle against them! 😉 In addition to the great tips shared here, I’d also recommend using a mild, furniture-friendly spray that is specifically approved for lacquered surfaces. The same goes for any furniture you want to highlight: make sure to wipe it dry thoroughly afterward, and if you like, consider getting some attractive, non-slip coasters – they worked wonders for me and even add a bit of color to the room!
Exactly! Function meets style – caring for your furniture can be fun that way, right? 🙂 Good luck!
bente schrieb:
What also helped: those small silicone coasters. Sure, they’re not super stylish, but they really protect and don’t leave any marks.
Exactly! Function meets style – caring for your furniture can be fun that way, right? 🙂 Good luck!
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