Hello everyone,
I have Malm dressers from IKEA at home, and I’ve noticed that the drawers sometimes run a bit stiffly and occasionally squeak. Therefore, I would like to know: How do I properly lubricate the Malm drawers so that they operate smoothly and as quietly as possible again?
I am aware that there are different lubricants available, and I would prefer a solution that does not damage the wood or metal parts or become sticky. Are there any recommendations for specific lubricants, application techniques, or particular considerations for Malm drawers? Should the drawers be fully removed first, or is it enough to lubricate the rails while they are in place?
Thank you very much for your tips and experiences!
I have Malm dressers from IKEA at home, and I’ve noticed that the drawers sometimes run a bit stiffly and occasionally squeak. Therefore, I would like to know: How do I properly lubricate the Malm drawers so that they operate smoothly and as quietly as possible again?
I am aware that there are different lubricants available, and I would prefer a solution that does not damage the wood or metal parts or become sticky. Are there any recommendations for specific lubricants, application techniques, or particular considerations for Malm drawers? Should the drawers be fully removed first, or is it enough to lubricate the rails while they are in place?
Thank you very much for your tips and experiences!
Hello ceyhun31,
First of all, thank you for your detailed question, it makes answering much easier. I regularly lubricate my Malm drawers as well and can gladly give you a simple step-by-step guide.
1. Remove the drawers: It’s best to take the drawers out completely. This is important to access the metal runners properly and avoid any damage.
2. Cleaning: Before lubricating, thoroughly clean all metal and plastic parts. Be sure to remove dust and old lubricant residues, ideally using isopropanol and a clean cloth.
3. Choosing the lubricant: For Malm, I have had good experiences with silicone or PTFE sprays. They are residue-free, non-sticky, and do not damage the plastic glides. WD-40 is popular but mainly suitable as a cleaner, not as a long-lasting lubricant.
4. Application: Apply the spray sparingly on the running and guiding surfaces. Too much lubricant can attract dust and make the mechanism dirty.
5. Let it dry and then reinsert the drawer. Repeatedly sliding the drawer in and out helps the lubricant distribute evenly.
Common mistakes include applying excessive amounts of WD-40 or similar oils, as they tend to become dirty and sticky over time.
In summary: cleanliness, the right lubricant, and using small amounts are key.
Hope this helps you! 🙂
First of all, thank you for your detailed question, it makes answering much easier. I regularly lubricate my Malm drawers as well and can gladly give you a simple step-by-step guide.
1. Remove the drawers: It’s best to take the drawers out completely. This is important to access the metal runners properly and avoid any damage.
2. Cleaning: Before lubricating, thoroughly clean all metal and plastic parts. Be sure to remove dust and old lubricant residues, ideally using isopropanol and a clean cloth.
3. Choosing the lubricant: For Malm, I have had good experiences with silicone or PTFE sprays. They are residue-free, non-sticky, and do not damage the plastic glides. WD-40 is popular but mainly suitable as a cleaner, not as a long-lasting lubricant.
4. Application: Apply the spray sparingly on the running and guiding surfaces. Too much lubricant can attract dust and make the mechanism dirty.
5. Let it dry and then reinsert the drawer. Repeatedly sliding the drawer in and out helps the lubricant distribute evenly.
Common mistakes include applying excessive amounts of WD-40 or similar oils, as they tend to become dirty and sticky over time.
In summary: cleanliness, the right lubricant, and using small amounts are key.
Hope this helps you! 🙂
mifusau schrieb:
WD-40 is popular but better suited as a cleaner rather than a long-term lubricant.That’s an important point I’d like to add. WD-40 is generally a multi-purpose product that loosens dirt and protects against corrosion—but it’s not suitable as a permanent lubricant for drawers.
Regarding how to handle Malm drawers technically: the slides usually consist of a combination of metal and plastic glides. These should not be treated with grease-based or resinous products, as they can quickly become dirty or sticky.
Instead, I recommend using silicone oil or PTFE spray, as mifusau mentioned. Alternatively, pure graphite powder works if you are sensitive to oils.
One more tip: if the drawer squeaks a lot, take a close look at the plastic glides—are the pieces still intact? Sometimes replacement works better than lubrication.
Oh, and about your question on removal: usually, you just pull the drawer out until it stops and release the rear catch. After that, you can fully remove the drawer from the slides for easier cleaning and lubrication.
I hope this gives you more confidence in proper maintenance. Good luck!
ceyhun31 schrieb:
How do I lubricate Malm drawers properly so that they work smoothly and as quietly as possible?Hey ceyhun31,
I have to say, I always find it fascinating how such small practical questions keep us busy! :-)
My tip is to take it easy when lubricating your Malm drawers: I simply tried a bit of silicone spray, which hardly ever causes squeaking afterwards, and the drawers really slide much more smoothly. Just spray, wait, and you’re done!
A little side note: I also once tried oil – the result was that the drawers became sticky after a short time and looked really dusty. The only solution then is a thorough cleaning and reapplication on clean surfaces. 😉
If the sliding doesn’t feel right immediately, push the drawers in and out a few times so the lubricant spreads evenly. And if the plastic parts get damaged, you can often order replacements inexpensively from IKEA or online.
Good luck, and don’t worry, eventually these things run like new again – usually! 🙂
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