Hello everyone, I have a Malm nightstand from IKEA and I’ve noticed that the color changes noticeably over time, especially the surfaces which sometimes look discolored or blotchy. Does anyone have an idea why this happens? I’ve been wondering if it might be due to sunlight exposure or maybe cleaning products. Are there any proven methods or care instructions to prevent these color changes? I would really appreciate any experiences or specific tips, so I can keep my nightstand looking nice and colorfast for a long time. Thanks in advance!
Hello drabi, color changes in MALM nightstands are unfortunately common, as they are usually made of particleboard with a thin coating. This coating can be affected by UV light, moisture, or harsh cleaning agents.
In fact, direct sunlight is a frequent cause, as it can bleach or cause uneven discoloration of the material. You should also avoid wiping with strong solvents or abrasive cleaners. Instead, I recommend using a dry or slightly damp cloth without any additives.
So, if you want to prevent color changes, the best advice is to protect the nightstand from direct sunlight as much as possible and use only mild, pH-neutral cleaning products.
In fact, direct sunlight is a frequent cause, as it can bleach or cause uneven discoloration of the material. You should also avoid wiping with strong solvents or abrasive cleaners. Instead, I recommend using a dry or slightly damp cloth without any additives.
So, if you want to prevent color changes, the best advice is to protect the nightstand from direct sunlight as much as possible and use only mild, pH-neutral cleaning products.
Wow, this topic is really important! I also had a similar problem with my MALM nightstand – it’s really frustrating! 🙂
What helped me a lot was choosing a spot that isn’t directly next to a window – that way the finish stays much more stable! And instead of using any cleaning products, I only use a soft, slightly damp cloth. You really have to be careful because the surface can’t handle everything.
So, everyone, if you love your furniture, let’s take care of it – it’s amazing how much small changes can make a difference!! 🙂
What helped me a lot was choosing a spot that isn’t directly next to a window – that way the finish stays much more stable! And instead of using any cleaning products, I only use a soft, slightly damp cloth. You really have to be careful because the surface can’t handle everything.
So, everyone, if you love your furniture, let’s take care of it – it’s amazing how much small changes can make a difference!! 🙂
T
Torsten4514 May 2021 07:11As a supplement: A MALM nightstand is usually covered with a melamine coating. Melamine is resistant to scratches and moisture, but prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation can alter the molecular structure, leading to discoloration.
Additionally, it is important to note that moisture trapped under furniture (e.g., due to very humid rooms or improper wiping) can cause the particleboard material to swell, which also becomes visible.
My recommendation: Place furniture in locations without direct sunlight, wipe regularly with a microfiber cloth until dry, and avoid cleaning agents that contain solvents or acids. Furthermore, it is advisable to occasionally check the indoor humidity levels.
Additionally, it is important to note that moisture trapped under furniture (e.g., due to very humid rooms or improper wiping) can cause the particleboard material to swell, which also becomes visible.
My recommendation: Place furniture in locations without direct sunlight, wipe regularly with a microfiber cloth until dry, and avoid cleaning agents that contain solvents or acids. Furthermore, it is advisable to occasionally check the indoor humidity levels.
koneo schrieb:
Can be affected by UV light, moisture, or even harsh cleaning agents.I agree with that, but I want to point out that not all MALM nightstands are produced exactly the same – there are indeed differences between batches and production years that can affect the type of coating used.
It might be worthwhile to check the manufacturing period to see if improvements were made that increase resistance.
Torsten45 schrieb:
Melamine is resistant to scratches[...] but ultraviolet radiation can alter the molecular structure over timeThat is true, but in my opinion, it has not yet been properly researched how much sunlight exposure is actually needed to cause visible color changes. Does anyone here have long-term experience or reliable studies on this? I would be interested to know.
Regarding pilous's question: "Does anyone have long-term experience or even reliable studies on this?"
From my research, there are some tests on the UV resistance of melamine coatings, but these are usually product-specific and published by manufacturers, not independent sources.
In general, UV resistance is not a primary focus for inexpensive furniture. The coatings are designed for cost efficiency, making them more susceptible to color changes compared to high-quality paints or glass surfaces.
Sustainable protection could also include the use of furniture coasters, fabric covers, or protective layers. These minimize the impact of dust, UV radiation, and mechanical wear.
From my research, there are some tests on the UV resistance of melamine coatings, but these are usually product-specific and published by manufacturers, not independent sources.
In general, UV resistance is not a primary focus for inexpensive furniture. The coatings are designed for cost efficiency, making them more susceptible to color changes compared to high-quality paints or glass surfaces.
Sustainable protection could also include the use of furniture coasters, fabric covers, or protective layers. These minimize the impact of dust, UV radiation, and mechanical wear.
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