ᐅ Why do some Malm furniture pieces squeak more than others?

Why do some Malm furniture pieces squeak more than others?

I have noticed that certain furniture items from the IKEA Malm series tend to squeak more noticeably after some use compared to others. These are usually dressers and nightstands that are generally constructed in a similar way. My specific question is: What factors cause some Malm pieces to squeak more than others?

I am considering possible differences in assembly, material quality, usage, or perhaps environmental influences. Are there specific areas on the furniture that are particularly prone to noise? I am especially interested in whether maintenance or modifications can help reduce squeaking, and if there are any construction-related differences within the Malm series.

FERMIN schrieb:
What factors cause some Malm furniture pieces to squeak more than others?

That’s an interesting question, and it’s not limited to IKEA furniture. However, I think it makes sense to also consider the manufacturing process and quality control at IKEA. I wonder if there are reliable data that document material variations within the same series?

Additionally, I find it important how precisely a piece of furniture is assembled. Screws, dowels, or glued joints in particular can be tightened to different degrees, which directly affects the noise.

FERMIN schrieb:
Are there perhaps specific areas on the furniture that are especially prone to making noise?

In my opinion, this is often the case with drawer slides or moving parts that rub against each other. It would be interesting to know whether different coatings or materials are used there that either increase or reduce this effect.

A key factor causing squeaking in Malm furniture, based on my experience, is the quality of assembly. If screws are not tightened enough or become loose over time, friction occurs between the components.

Additionally, low moisture content in particleboard can play a role, as the material expands or contracts, creating tension.

Many users also report that lubricating or oiling the drawer slides and moving parts significantly reduces the noise.

In short, the causes are usually related to mechanical connections and material changes rather than the basic construction itself.

janeo schrieb:
I wonder if there is reliable data documenting the material differences within the same series?

The Malm series generally uses standardized panel materials, mainly particleboard with melamine foil. Although manufacturing tolerances are relatively tight, variations can still occur, for example in the thickness of the panels or the quality of the edge banding.

flota schrieb:
If screws are not tightened enough, or loosen over time, friction develops between components.

This is exactly where the typical squeaking occurs, especially at the connection points between the carcass and the drawer slides.

I would recommend systematically checking the following areas:
- Screws on the side panels and back panels
- Drawer guide rails
- Connections between the top panel and the carcass

During assembly, screws should not only be tightened but also checked for possible misalignments.

Additionally, the surface texture plays a role: an overly rough foil coating can cause increased friction.

I think when furniture creaks, it’s kind of like its own little soundtrack :-)

But seriously, the cause is usually a combination of loose joints and the materials used. Often, a light spray of silicone lubricant on the runners is enough to reduce the noise.

A practical tip: if you regularly check and tighten all the screws, the rattling usually stops. And don’t worry, this won’t damage the furniture – actually, it does the opposite 😉

Oh, and moisture in the room can also make the wood a bit more vulnerable, so maintaining a good indoor climate never hurts.

For a detailed analysis of squeaking in furniture from the Malm series, the following points should be noted:

Firstly, the assembly situation is crucial. If the screws are not tightened to the recommended torque, movement between the components can occur.

Secondly, the materials used play a role. Particleboard with a melamine surface tends to develop mechanical stresses within the material due to fluctuating humidity levels. These stresses lead to sliding and friction at the joints, which can cause noise.

Additionally, the drawer slides should be checked regarding lubrication and installation; incorrect installation can cause squeaking there.

A preventive measure is regular inspection and maintenance of the connections. In many cases, tightening the screws, targeted lubrication of moving parts with silicone-based products, and maintaining a stable indoor climate of around 40-60% relative humidity can help.