ᐅ How do you replace the drawer slides in an IKEA Malm dresser?

Hello everyone,

I would like to know the proper way to replace the drawer slides on IKEA Malm dressers. After several years of use, the slides on my dresser have worn out, causing the drawers to not run smoothly and sometimes stick.

I am particularly interested in the steps required to remove the old slides, whether any special tools are needed, and if replacement parts can be ordered directly from IKEA or if it is better to use third-party suppliers. It would also be helpful to know if the replacement is doable for beginners or if some prior DIY experience is recommended.

I am using the Malm model with four drawers, in case that is relevant.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

Mareen schrieb:
The rails on my dresser have worn out after several years of use, so the drawers no longer slide smoothly and sometimes get stuck.

That sounds like a typical case of wear, but have you checked whether simply cleaning the rails and the rollers might be enough? Sometimes dirt or dust accumulates on the sliding rails, which can affect their function.

Also, as far as I know, IKEA does not sell replacement rails separately but often recommends buying a new dresser. Have you looked into that in detail?

From a technical point of view, replacement is generally possible, but without detailed instructions it can be frustrating. The drawers are usually fixed with metal or plastic catches that need to be properly released and reattached, otherwise the stability may be compromised.

I’m interested to know if you already have a specific plan for which replacement parts you want to get.

Removing drawer slides: Fully pull out the drawer, then carefully press or lift the side locks (plastic clips) on the runners and slide the rail out.

You usually won’t get replacements from IKEA, so it’s better to check third-party suppliers or furniture accessory platforms.

Tools: Max size Phillips screwdriver; sometimes no screws are needed, only clips.

Franck schrieb:
Pull the drawer out completely, then release the side locks… press or lift them up and then pull out the rail.

Exactly, I will explain this in more detail since there are some pitfalls to watch out for.

1. First, pull the drawer completely out of the cabinet. It is important to pull the drawer straight out to avoid misaligning the rails.

2. The plastic locks are located in the middle of the side rails, usually small clips that need to be pressed up or slid to the side.

3. These clips can be quite stiff and may break, so handle them carefully.

4. After removing the old rails, inspect the running rails inside the cabinet for any damage. Screws or rivets may have come loose.

5. The replacement parts should match the originals as closely as possible, since differences in length or mounting holes can make installation difficult.

6. After replacing, it is recommended to apply lubricant to the rails — either a special plastic glide grease or silicone spray.

Question for Mareen: Are the problems limited to certain drawers, or do all of them have issues? Some Malm variants have different rails for each drawer.

In addition to the previous answers:

It is definitely doable for non-professionals if you follow the steps carefully and have the right replacement parts.

Tip: You can check the Malm drawer unit type on IKEA’s online shop, and the instruction manual often includes exploded diagrams that show how the runners are attached.

If you can’t get replacement parts directly from IKEA, make sure the replacement drawer runners are either advertised as "compatible with IKEA Malm" or have exactly the same dimensions – otherwise, you might run into installation problems.

Regarding tools: A standard Phillips screwdriver is usually sufficient, and a small flathead screwdriver can be useful as a lever, for example, to carefully pry clips without damaging them.

And very important: Work gently and test the drawer slide after installation before fully screwing everything back in place.

Domau0 schrieb:
Check the rails in the cabinet carefully for any damage. Sometimes screws or rivets may have loosened.

I overlooked this myself, and then my drawers stopped working properly! I tightened all the screws and realigned the rails – now everything runs like new again :-)

So please take a close look and then get to work! Don’t get discouraged; replacing them is definitely doable and well worth it! Good luck to everyone 🙂