Hello everyone,
I have several Malm dressers from IKEA at home and wanted to fully remove the drawers to clean them thoroughly. Since the drawers sometimes fit very tightly or are a bit tricky to pull out, I’m wondering if there is a proper method to remove these drawers without causing any damage, and what to pay attention to when cleaning the runners and the inside of the drawers.
Are there any special tricks or tools that work particularly well? I especially want to clear the runners of dust and dirt. I am also considering whether to oil them, but I have heard that this can sometimes be harmful.
I hope you have experience or good tips on how to professionally remove and safely clean my Malm drawers so they run smoothly again.
Thanks in advance!
I have several Malm dressers from IKEA at home and wanted to fully remove the drawers to clean them thoroughly. Since the drawers sometimes fit very tightly or are a bit tricky to pull out, I’m wondering if there is a proper method to remove these drawers without causing any damage, and what to pay attention to when cleaning the runners and the inside of the drawers.
Are there any special tricks or tools that work particularly well? I especially want to clear the runners of dust and dirt. I am also considering whether to oil them, but I have heard that this can sometimes be harmful.
I hope you have experience or good tips on how to professionally remove and safely clean my Malm drawers so they run smoothly again.
Thanks in advance!
Hello!
There is actually a fairly simple trick to take apart Malm drawers: Malm drawers usually have plastic runners with a small release mechanism. When you pull the drawer out completely, you should find tabs or clips on the sides that sometimes need to be pressed or pushed up – IKEA often calls these "clip snaps."
You pull the drawer out, press these clips on both sides at the same time, and then you can remove the drawer entirely. Engaging both sides is important; otherwise, it will get stuck.
For cleaning, I recommend removing dust from the runners with a dry microfiber cloth and a small brush. If the dust is very stubborn, you can use a little mild cleaning detergent on a cloth, but do not use oil, as it attracts dust and worsens the sliding over time.
If you really want to lubricate, I suggest using a silicone spray that dries quickly and does not attract dirt.
Good luck, and let us know if you have any more questions!
There is actually a fairly simple trick to take apart Malm drawers: Malm drawers usually have plastic runners with a small release mechanism. When you pull the drawer out completely, you should find tabs or clips on the sides that sometimes need to be pressed or pushed up – IKEA often calls these "clip snaps."
You pull the drawer out, press these clips on both sides at the same time, and then you can remove the drawer entirely. Engaging both sides is important; otherwise, it will get stuck.
For cleaning, I recommend removing dust from the runners with a dry microfiber cloth and a small brush. If the dust is very stubborn, you can use a little mild cleaning detergent on a cloth, but do not use oil, as it attracts dust and worsens the sliding over time.
If you really want to lubricate, I suggest using a silicone spray that dries quickly and does not attract dirt.
Good luck, and let us know if you have any more questions!
C
Cecilera668 Nov 2022 10:01Simply pull the drawer all the way out and press the release levers on both sides; then you can remove it. Clean the slides with a dry cloth; it’s better to avoid using oil.
Tevin schrieb:
If the dirt is very stubborn, you can also apply a little mild detergent to a cloth, but don’t use oil, as it attracts dust and can worsen the movement over time.I see that differently. In fact, those who oil their drawers often achieve better results—even if some dirt sticks to them. Most people go overboard with conservative avoidance of maintenance just to keep the "original condition."
Of course, it doesn’t last forever, but a silicone-free oil or even wax can make a noticeable difference, especially with older furniture or when the runners are metal.
Just a tip: avoid cheap WD-40—it’s more of a penetrating oil against rust, not a long-lasting lubricant.
For a precise procedure:
1. Fully pull out the drawer.
2. On both sides under the handle, look for a small lever or plastic clip.
3. Press or lift these clips simultaneously, then lift the drawer out.
4. Clean the interior and rails with a dry cloth and a small brush.
5. For damp cleaning, use only diluted all-purpose cleaner; avoid harsh solvents.
6. Use silicone spray or Teflon spray only if there are running issues. Do not apply oil on metal parts or use heavy-duty lubricants.
This method is systematic and prevents damage or unnecessary residue.
1. Fully pull out the drawer.
2. On both sides under the handle, look for a small lever or plastic clip.
3. Press or lift these clips simultaneously, then lift the drawer out.
4. Clean the interior and rails with a dry cloth and a small brush.
5. For damp cleaning, use only diluted all-purpose cleaner; avoid harsh solvents.
6. Use silicone spray or Teflon spray only if there are running issues. Do not apply oil on metal parts or use heavy-duty lubricants.
This method is systematic and prevents damage or unnecessary residue.
Cecilera66 schrieb:
Simply pull the drawer out completely and press the release levers on both sidesThanks, that sounds quite practical.
I’m also interested in whether damage might occur if you’re not careful—like breaking the clips or bending the rails. How durable is this system?
Also: Can the rails be easily removed if a full replacement is needed? Or is it even worth it, or better to just buy a new dresser?
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