ᐅ How can I protect Malm furniture from UV damage?

Created on: 26 Jun 2024 18:37
E
Eltonpar
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Eltonpar
26 Jun 2024 18:37
Hello everyone,

I have a rather specific question about furniture care: How can I protect Malm furniture from UV rays?

My Malm dressers made of light wood are usually quite durable, but I notice that after some time by the window, they start to fade slightly, and the wood and surface appear to deteriorate visually.

I’m looking for effective ways to keep the furniture looking great and to protect it from long-term sun exposure, without changing the character of the furniture or requiring too much maintenance.

What products or techniques would you recommend to prevent UV damage as much as possible? Also, how do you rate the effectiveness of special UV protection films on windows compared to protecting the furniture directly? Are there any proven care products that work particularly well?

Thanks in advance for your tips!
J
ju_ren
26 Jun 2024 19:11
Hello,

for Malm furniture, I recommend applying a UV protection film directly to the windows. This prevents too much UV radiation from entering the room.

Additionally, you can regularly treat the furniture with furniture wax or a UV-protective wood oil. This helps protect the surface against UV damage.

Avoid using aggressive cleaners, as they can harm the protection.
D
Dilen
27 Jun 2024 10:42
Regarding the question of how to effectively protect Malm furniture from UV rays, I would like to provide a more detailed explanation of the technical background and step-by-step measures:

First, it is important to understand that Malm furniture is usually made from MDF panels with a decorative foil. UV radiation attacks this foil, leading to color changes and material fatigue.

Step 1: Apply window film with UV protection (at least 99% UV filter). This measure prevents most of the harmful rays from reaching the furniture.

Step 2: Care for the furniture using a special furniture oil or wax that contains UV-blocking ingredients. Natural oils like carnauba wax or special clear coatings with UV filters are recommended. These penetrate the decorative foil and enhance protection.

Step 3: Avoid exposing the furniture to direct sunlight permanently; if possible, place it in the shade or protect it with curtains or blinds.

Common mistakes I often see include trying to treat the furniture with regular wood oils or lacquers that do not provide UV protection – this offers little to no benefit. Neglecting regular reapplications is also problematic, as the protection wears off quickly.

In summary, combinations of UV window film and specially formulated protective products pay off to keep Malm furniture looking fresh over time.

What are the lighting conditions like in your room? Does the furniture receive sunlight all day or only occasionally?
J
ju_ren
27 Jun 2024 14:03
Dilen schrieb:
Step 1: Apply window film with UV protection (at least 99% UV filter).

This is the most important tip here. If UV radiation doesn't penetrate in the first place, it's the best protection for your furniture.
Dilen schrieb:
Furniture care with a special furniture oil or wax that contains UV-blocking ingredients.

I would add this: Look for products that clearly state their UV protection properties. Not all furniture waxes actually offer this.