ᐅ IKEA Malm dresser squeaks when moved – should I use lubricant?
Created on: 10 Feb 2017 19:42
J
Jonni2
Hello everyone,
I have had an IKEA Malm dresser for a few weeks now, and unfortunately, it makes quite an annoying squeaking noise when sliding it across hard flooring. The sound seems to come mainly from the area of the drawer runners or the plastic runners underneath.
I’m wondering if a lubricant could help with this or if that might actually make things worse.
Does anyone know this problem and can advise on the best way to treat it? Also, recommendations on what type of lubricant would be suitable? I’d prefer not to just use any oil because I’m worried about possible residues or damage to the materials.
Looking forward to your tips and experiences!
I have had an IKEA Malm dresser for a few weeks now, and unfortunately, it makes quite an annoying squeaking noise when sliding it across hard flooring. The sound seems to come mainly from the area of the drawer runners or the plastic runners underneath.
I’m wondering if a lubricant could help with this or if that might actually make things worse.
Does anyone know this problem and can advise on the best way to treat it? Also, recommendations on what type of lubricant would be suitable? I’d prefer not to just use any oil because I’m worried about possible residues or damage to the materials.
Looking forward to your tips and experiences!
Juan31 schrieb:
The slides or runners should be clean and dry, free of grease and dust.Thanks for the tip about using alcohol, I will do that.
Juan31 schrieb:
Yes, the drawer slides of the Malm are usually attached with clips or screws and can be removed.Perfect, that gives me the chance to do it more thoroughly.
One quick question: After cleaning with alcohol, should I wait until everything is completely dry before applying the silicone spray, or can I start right away?
Also, could the squeaking be caused by humidity? Here in winter we often have quite dry heated air, but the chest of drawers is standing on laminate flooring.
Jonni2 schrieb:
Should I wait until everything is completely dry after cleaning with alcohol before applying the silicone spray?Yes, definitely! The surface should be completely dry so that the silicone spray can bond properly and work effectively. Alcohol usually evaporates very quickly, but it’s better to wait a few minutes just to be sure.
Jonni2 schrieb:
Could the squeaking also be caused by humidity?That’s unusual, but not impossible. Wood can expand or contract slightly depending on humidity, which may cause noises. However, since the Malm piece is mostly made of coated engineered wood, this movement is likely minimal. It’s more probable that the squeaking comes from plastic or metal parts rubbing against each other.
Good luck, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions! 🙂
Regarding the topic of "lubricants," here is a summary:
1. Silicone spray is recommended for plastic or metal guides since it does not stick and does not attract dust.
2. Before applying, clean and dry the guides, for example with isopropanol or cleaning alcohol.
3. WD-40 and similar oils are not recommended because they attract dirt and can cause long-term damage.
4. The guide rails can usually be removed in Malm furniture, which makes cleaning easier.
5. After application, move the drawer several times so the lubricant distributes evenly.
I would also add that with persistent squeaking, you should check the edges of the drawers and their fit in the carcass to rule out mechanical misalignment.
Overall, this is a simple measure that works for many pieces of furniture and noticeably improves comfort.
1. Silicone spray is recommended for plastic or metal guides since it does not stick and does not attract dust.
2. Before applying, clean and dry the guides, for example with isopropanol or cleaning alcohol.
3. WD-40 and similar oils are not recommended because they attract dirt and can cause long-term damage.
4. The guide rails can usually be removed in Malm furniture, which makes cleaning easier.
5. After application, move the drawer several times so the lubricant distributes evenly.
I would also add that with persistent squeaking, you should check the edges of the drawers and their fit in the carcass to rule out mechanical misalignment.
Overall, this is a simple measure that works for many pieces of furniture and noticeably improves comfort.
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