ᐅ How should I properly store Malm furniture between moves?

Hello everyone, I am planning a move soon and I own several Malm furniture pieces from IKEA. Since the actual moving date is still several weeks away, I need to store the furniture safely and properly for a certain period. The Malm range is mostly made of wood-based panels covered with particleboard, so I am concerned about the best way to store them temporarily without causing damage.

I am especially interested in advice on the following points: What is the best way to store the furniture if it is partially disassembled? In which room or under what conditions should the furniture be stored to avoid warping, water damage, or surface defects? Also, are there specific packaging materials that should definitely be used or avoided?

I look forward to your experiences and tips!

Hello Eren48,

I’m happy to share my experience on this topic. Malm furniture, as you correctly pointed out, is made of particleboard with a coating (usually melamine resin or foil). This makes it sensitive to moisture and mechanical stress.

Storage:
- Ideally, store the furniture at room temperature with stable humidity (between 40 and 60%). Damp basements or unheated garages are generally not suitable due to frequent fluctuations and condensation.

- Taking the furniture apart is definitely a good idea, but you should store the parts flat. Large panels (e.g., tabletops or wardrobe sides) should not be stored upright, as they may warp.

- Packaging material: Use breathable blankets or furniture fleece. Plastic bags or foil are only recommended if no moisture is trapped underneath.

- Keep screws and small parts securely in a labeled container.

Can you describe how many pieces of furniture you have and how large the storage space will be? Are they already disassembled or still complete?

Eren48, simply disassemble the furniture, store it flat, and cover it with furniture blankets. Ensure air circulation and avoid placing plastic sheeting directly on the surfaces. Prevent moisture.

I would add: Never store Malm furniture directly on the floor. It is best to place wooden slats or pallets underneath to prevent moisture from rising from the floor.

TEBILO schrieb:
Plastic bags or films are only advisable if no moisture is trapped underneath.

That is why you should avoid wrapping furniture with non-breathable plastic sheets. It is better to use breathable materials to prevent mold.

If you have time, fully disassemble the Malm furniture; this will make it fit better in the storage space and reduce the risk of damage during transport and storage.