ᐅ How can warping be prevented in Malm furniture?

Hello everyone, I am urgently looking for advice on how to effectively prevent warping of the wood in Malm furniture from IKEA. I have noticed that especially desks and dressers often have surfaces and individual components that slightly bow or warp, which is particularly noticeable with changing temperatures and humidity levels. Are there any specific care instructions, ideal humidity ranges, or installation techniques that can minimize this issue? I want to avoid the furniture deforming over time without having to replace it frequently. Perhaps you also have experience with additional protective measures or similar solutions. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hello Lauraffael, your concern is very justified because Malm furniture is made from MDF or particleboard, which are sensitive to fluctuations in humidity. Warping occurs when the wood absorbs or loses moisture, causing it to expand or contract. It is therefore important to place the furniture in a room with as stable a climate as possible, with humidity levels between 40 and 60 percent. Additionally, the backs of the furniture pieces can be protected with thin films or special sealants, as often only the fronts are treated. Stable locations without direct sunlight or heating air are also recommended. Proper assembly is also important, as uneven joints can promote tension.

Malm furniture should not be placed in damp areas. Position it in rooms with a stable temperature, avoiding direct heating sources or windows. Also, use furniture pads to prevent moisture from rising from the floor.

gregto schrieb:
Malm furniture is made from MDF or particleboard, which are sensitive to changes in humidity.

This is a key factor that is often underestimated. Additionally, I recommend treating the furniture immediately after assembly with a suitable melamine care product that seals the pores and creates a barrier against moisture. While avoiding direct sunlight and drafts is already standard practice, using a hygrometer in the room helps to monitor humidity levels accurately. In cases of overly dry air, especially during winter, a humidifier should be used. Using silica gel packets in drawers can also help absorb moisture locally.

Super interesting question! 🙂 I had exactly the same problem with my Malm dresser. What really helped was applying a clear protective film to the underside of the furniture, and since then I haven’t had any more warping! 😊 Regular ventilation while keeping the temperature stable also made a big difference. You can really notice how much the climate affects things. Definitely a tip worth trying!

I can only add: Do not store heavy objects on partial surfaces that unnecessarily strain the furniture. This helps prevent warping or bending.