ᐅ Why is there a slight moisture seepage coming through my Malm heater?

Hello everyone,

I have a Malm dresser in my bedroom that occasionally releases slight moisture on its surface from underneath, almost like light dripping. I noticed this issue a few days ago when I inspected the dresser more closely, initially suspecting condensation or a leak in the wall. Since the Malm is made of engineered wood panels and there doesn’t seem to be a direct source of moisture nearby, I’m wondering what could be causing this slight dripping.

The room temperature is around 21°C (70°F) during the day and a bit cooler at night, and I ventilate regularly. Another detail is that the dresser is relatively new, and I haven’t noticed any signs of wear or damage to the bottom panel. I would like to know if this issue could be related to the construction or lack of ventilation, or if it indicates a bigger moisture problem.

Has anyone experienced this or have any ideas why a Malm furniture piece might emit or attract light moisture? Are there common causes I should check?

Hello Sujo33,

Your issue with the slight moisture dripping on your Malm dresser initially sounds unusual, but unfortunately it is not uncommon. Malm furniture, as you correctly noted, is made from engineered wood panels, usually coated with a decorative foil that is not completely waterproof.

Sujo33 schrieb:
What could be the cause of this slight dripping

The moisture can come from several sources:
- Condensation due to poor air circulation directly under the dresser, especially if the floor is cooler than the room air
- Rising moisture from the floor (for example, if the floor covering or subfloor contains moisture)
- Moisture accumulating in the sealant joints or the back panel, which slowly transfers to the furniture surface

Sujo33 schrieb:
The room temperature during the day is about 21 degrees, a bit cooler at night

This suggests that condensation may occur during the cooler nights. Often, small measures like improving ventilation under and behind the dresser can help. Checking the affected areas with a moisture meter would be advisable to identify the exact source of moisture.

I hope this helps you already!

Hi,

first check whether the floor beneath the dresser is damp or if it is only the piece of furniture. Make sure the floor stays dry and provide sufficient ventilation. Do not place the dresser directly against a wall without leaving some space.

I know this feeling as well: Although Malm looks nice, this type of engineered wood is quite sensitive to moisture. Usually, humidity tends to build up under the dresser and then condenses overnight. A little tip from me: Adding some spacers under the dresser feet to improve air circulation works wonders 😉

GIPAPO schrieb:
Make sure the floor stays dry

Of course, otherwise the moisture problem won’t improve.

Don’t forget – humidity and temperature are closely linked. Sometimes you only notice the droplets when it gets relatively cool. 😎

Additionally: Moisture under furniture, especially with wood-based panels, can lead to problems such as wood swelling or mold growth. The surfaces of thin furniture panels usually offer limited protection against moisture.

It is important to determine whether the moisture actually originates from the furniture or is merely condensation. Condensation mainly occurs in poorly ventilated areas when warm, humid air meets cold surfaces.

A joint inspection or a moisture check of the wall is recommended.

As a preventive measure, furniture should always be placed a few centimeters (inches) away from the wall and floor. A dehumidifier in the room can also be helpful.

Thank you for the previous assessments! I will definitely try the ventilation idea; a few spacers have been on my to-do list for a while anyway.

usbla schrieb:
It is important to distinguish whether the moisture actually comes from the furniture or is just condensing

That’s exactly my point – I’m unsure whether the chest of drawers absorbs and releases moisture, or if the moisture is condensing directly on its surface.

My floor is laminate, so in theory, there should be little moisture rising from below, at least that’s what I believe. I will measure that more precisely.

I suppose I should base it on the relative humidity. If the value stays above 60% continuously, is there really a risk of condensation?

How can I better estimate the relationship between indoor humidity, temperature, and condensation? Are there practical rules of thumb or measuring devices you would recommend?

Thanks in advance for your support!