Hello everyone,
I have an issue with my Ikea Malm drawers, which have recently become quite difficult to open. Specifically, the extension and locking mechanism no longer operate smoothly, and sometimes the drawers get stuck when pulling them out. I suspect that the slides are no longer properly aligned or that worn parts are causing the problem.
Has anyone had experience repairing these Malm drawers? What steps and tools would you recommend if I want to fix the issue myself? Are there common weak points with these drawers that are often overlooked?
I would appreciate detailed tips and any advice on what to watch out for to ensure a durable repair. Thanks in advance!
I have an issue with my Ikea Malm drawers, which have recently become quite difficult to open. Specifically, the extension and locking mechanism no longer operate smoothly, and sometimes the drawers get stuck when pulling them out. I suspect that the slides are no longer properly aligned or that worn parts are causing the problem.
Has anyone had experience repairing these Malm drawers? What steps and tools would you recommend if I want to fix the issue myself? Are there common weak points with these drawers that are often overlooked?
I would appreciate detailed tips and any advice on what to watch out for to ensure a durable repair. Thanks in advance!
Hello MUDEO54,
I am familiar with your issue—Malm drawers can experience wear on the drawer slides with frequent use. I will explain the repair process in more detail:
1. First, I recommend completely removing the drawer. To do this, pull the drawer out fully, lift it slightly, and then pull it out of the slide rails.
2. Next, carefully inspect the metal rails. Screws often become loose, or there may be slight deformations on the rails at the guide points. You should tighten any loose screws and gently correct any deformations.
3. If the slide is heavily worn, for example due to frayed plastic runners, it is advisable to replace it. For Ikea Malm, the rails can be purchased individually.
4. Some users forget to clean the slides. Dust and small particles can significantly affect their function. Thorough cleaning and lubricating with a silicone-based lubricant can help.
5. Also, check if the screws or clip fasteners that secure the drawer front have loosened, as this can also cause misalignment.
Could you possibly describe in more detail whether the sticking occurs at a specific point when pulling out the drawer? Does the problem happen with all drawers or just one?
I hope these points help you already! 🙂
I am familiar with your issue—Malm drawers can experience wear on the drawer slides with frequent use. I will explain the repair process in more detail:
1. First, I recommend completely removing the drawer. To do this, pull the drawer out fully, lift it slightly, and then pull it out of the slide rails.
2. Next, carefully inspect the metal rails. Screws often become loose, or there may be slight deformations on the rails at the guide points. You should tighten any loose screws and gently correct any deformations.
3. If the slide is heavily worn, for example due to frayed plastic runners, it is advisable to replace it. For Ikea Malm, the rails can be purchased individually.
4. Some users forget to clean the slides. Dust and small particles can significantly affect their function. Thorough cleaning and lubricating with a silicone-based lubricant can help.
5. Also, check if the screws or clip fasteners that secure the drawer front have loosened, as this can also cause misalignment.
Could you possibly describe in more detail whether the sticking occurs at a specific point when pulling out the drawer? Does the problem happen with all drawers or just one?
I hope these points help you already! 🙂
I agree with Filippos' points and would like to add that Malm drawers often have issues with the small plastic stoppers at the end of the metal slides. These prevent the drawer from coming out completely but can break or come loose over time.
This often becomes noticeable through a clicking or wobbling sensation when pulling the drawer out. Replacement stoppers are inexpensive and relatively easy to install.
Therefore, when repairing, make sure that all stoppers and slide components are intact. A smoothly operating drawer always starts with intact slides and stoppers.
Also, ensure that the slides on the right and left sides are mounted symmetrically, as any misalignment can cause sticking.
This often becomes noticeable through a clicking or wobbling sensation when pulling the drawer out. Replacement stoppers are inexpensive and relatively easy to install.
Therefore, when repairing, make sure that all stoppers and slide components are intact. A smoothly operating drawer always starts with intact slides and stoppers.
Also, ensure that the slides on the right and left sides are mounted symmetrically, as any misalignment can cause sticking.
Filippo schrieb:
Could you possibly describe more precisely if the sticking occurs at a specific point when pulling out the drawer?Good idea, thanks. I noticed that the sticking happens mostly in the middle of the extension, just before the drawer is fully pulled out. It feels like a slight jerking, as if the mechanism isn’t running smoothly at the end stops.
I have checked the screws, but none were really loose. I haven’t cleaned the slides yet; that will be my next step.
If it helps: the left side of the drawer feels a bit stiffer than the right side when opening.
What type of lubricant do you recommend? It should be grease-free, right?
MUDEO54 schrieb:
If it helps: The left side of the drawer feels a bit stiffer than the right when opening.This is an important detail, since slight asymmetries in the drawer slides or dirt buildup often cause uneven movement. To address this:
- Remove the drawer and check if the slides are mounted perfectly parallel. Even a few millimeters of misalignment can significantly affect the smoothness of operation.
- Thoroughly clean off all dust and dirt on both sides. I use a brush and a microfiber cloth for this.
- For lubrication, I strongly recommend a silicone-based spray or dry lubricant. These are grease-free and won’t attract new dust.
- Avoid oils or grease because they can cause sticking inside the narrow slides.
If available, use a meter of paracord or a thin plastic spatula to check the glide elements for damage. A damaged glide can greatly increase friction.
After reinstalling, it’s helpful to fully open and close the drawer several times to allow the lubricant to set.
Can you temporarily rotate the drawer to access the underside of the slide? Sometimes this reveals shifted glides or pinch points.
Dilen schrieb:
Avoid oils or greases, as they can cause sticking in the narrow rails.\Thanks for the tip about lubricants! I wasn’t aware of that.
I removed the drawer yesterday, and it’s true that the left rail is slightly angled. I will try to realign it properly and then treat it with a silicone-based dry lubricant.
Where is the best place to find such a lubricant? Would a hardware store be sufficient, or should I look for specialized products?
I’ll report back on how it goes.
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