ᐅ Is it possible to refinish MALM surfaces without much effort?

Hello everyone,

I have a question regarding the maintenance of MALM furniture surfaces (from IKEA). These are known to be made of particleboard with a painted or laminated surface, which is supposed to be quite durable, but in everyday use, small scratches or dull spots can still appear.

My specific question is:

Is it possible to maintain or restore MALM surfaces without a lot of effort? I mean without sanding or applying coats of paint over several weeks, but rather using simple household remedies, special care products, or perhaps small touch-up tips?

I do not want to completely refinish the furniture, just to conceal light signs of wear or refresh the surface. Are there any proven practical methods or products that are effective and uncomplicated?

Thanks in advance for any helpful advice!

Hello traron,

I think your question is really well posed because often it’s the small everyday issues that are the most annoying when you own furniture.

I also have MALM furniture, and yes, small scratches or dull spots are unfortunately unavoidable. What I have tried so far: For minor scratches, you can actually use special wax-based furniture care creams that you simply rub in with a soft cloth. This refreshes the surface slightly and visually masks quite a bit.

Of course, this is no substitute for repainting, but it is perfectly sufficient for most everyday wear and tear. However, you shouldn’t apply too much at once, better to do it gradually.

For me, it’s also important not to save money in the wrong place, because especially with the MALM particleboard, you can easily damage the surface if you are too aggressive.

traron, if you don’t want a big effort: use furniture polish for foil surfaces or furniture care wax. Rub in, let dry, done. No sanding necessary.

Hey,

I find this topic interesting because Malm furniture is basically a classic, and many people have it partly because of its affordable price. Let’s be honest – who hasn’t had a cup roughly placed on it or a few light scratches from a cat? 😅

So, I’ve had good experiences with plant oil. I applied a little, let it sit for a few minutes, and then polished it with a clean cloth. This makes the surface shine and kind of blends minor stains. Not permanent, but easy and quick.

Additionally, there are these special furniture touch-up markers—I’m not sure if you know them? They’re really great for fixing small dents or scratches on light wood finishes. Very simple to use.

As you can see, you don’t always have to bring out the big guns! 😉

Islaso schrieb:
For minor scratches, you can actually use special wax-based furniture care creams

That is correct. MALM surfaces usually consist of laminated particleboard, which makes traditional paintwork difficult. The surface is smooth and does not have a thick paint layer. Therefore, sanding and repainting are problematic and labor-intensive.

For touch-up treatment, I recommend the following precise procedure:

1. Remove superficial dirt with a mild cleaner.
2. Treat scratches with wax sticks or touch-up pens that match the furniture color.
3. Rub the surface with special wax-based furniture care products.

This method is practical, low-effort, and does not damage the surface.

I advise against using home remedies like oil on laminated or painted particleboard, as they can damage or alter the surface over time.

traron, as draleo says: Wax crayons or furniture polish are usually enough. Simply apply and buff. No sanding, no painting.