ᐅ Are there MALM furniture pieces with improved stability?

Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into whether there are now versions of IKEA furniture from the Malm series that offer improved stability. Specifically, I am interested in whether IKEA has made any stability enhancements to MALM dressers or beds—whether through changed materials, reinforced construction, or additional stabilization elements.

I have read several reports about problems with wobbly drawers and unstable frames, which is obviously not ideal for furniture often used in bedrooms.

I would like to know if anyone has experience with newer MALM models or if IKEA has officially made any changes or improvements.

Thank you very much for your insights and advice!

LISOKOL schrieb:
whether there are now versions of IKEA furniture from the MALM series that offer improved stability

Hello,

this is a very good and important question, as there have indeed been reports of stability issues with some MALM furniture, especially in older production batches. To the best of my knowledge, IKEA has optimized production several times, mainly by reinforcing the connectors and the back panels.

Newer models often include additional metal brackets or stronger particle boards.

However, this varies depending on the specific piece of furniture and its production year, as updates have been made intermittently over the last few years without much public communication.

If possible, I would recommend checking directly with IKEA in the store for model numbers and the current product descriptions regarding improvements – for example, some MALM chests of drawers now feature metal reinforcements that increase stability.

I’m happy to help further if you tell me exactly which piece of furniture you are referring to.

Yes, IKEA has made minor improvements to the MALM series. New models often feature reinforced back panels and more durable drawer slides. Older models tend to have more issues.

erikpu schrieb:
Newer series often include additional metal brackets or stronger particle boards

That sums it up well. I compared my MALM dresser from 2013 with one from 2015: The newer version indeed uses more durable materials and an improved frame shell.

During assembly, it’s noticeable that the drill holes are more precise, and the drawer runners are now made of metal instead of plastic, which makes a difference especially under heavier loads.

Additionally, the back panel has been reinforced from 3 mm particle board to about 6 mm (1/4 inch), which, together with improved corner joints, provides noticeably more stability.

If stability is particularly important to you, I would recommend checking the current IKEA catalog and paying attention to the official notes in the product descriptions.

One question for you: Which MALM version do you currently have, and what are your specific stability requirements? Do you mainly use the furniture for heavy items or as light storage?

pauPierce schrieb:
Which MALM version do you currently have, and what are your exact requirements for stability?

That’s a good question, thanks! I’m mainly looking at a 6- to 8-drawer dresser that I plan to fill primarily with clothing and some heavy bags. So the dresser should be able to handle some weight without wobbling or warping.

I currently have a MALM dresser from 2012, but I find its stability somewhat questionable. Especially the drawers no longer slide smoothly, and the frame feels unstable when moved.

I’m interested in a newer version that ideally offers significant improvements in these areas. If anyone has this exact model and can share feedback, that would be great.

I’m asking specifically because I’m considering buying again if the furniture is indeed manufactured more solidly now. Thanks again for the helpful responses so far!

LISOKOL schrieb:
I’m asking specifically because I’m considering buying again if the furniture has indeed been made more stable now

I think this whole topic about the "improved" versions is often just misleading. Sure, IKEA has tried to make some improvements, but that hardly changes the basic concept of MALM: affordable furniture, quick to assemble – and accordingly not designed for longevity or maximum stability.

Adding more metal or thicker back panels is nice, but ultimately these cabinets are not suitable for long-term heavy use. If you want stability, you should choose other furniture brands or invest in solid wood yourself.

Sometimes I feel this discussion is a bit idealized – IKEA doesn’t perform miracles, it delivers what the mass market demands: affordable and functional furniture, not a premium product.

In short: the improvements in stability are marginal and don’t address the underlying issue.