ᐅ How to Change the Drawer Handles on an IKEA Malm Nightstand?

Hello everyone, some time ago I bought the IKEA Malm bedside table. Now I want to change the furniture handles because I no longer like the standard ones and prefer something more modern. However, I haven't found any clear instructions on how to best replace the handles on this model without damaging the wood or having the screws stuck.

Can someone explain the best way to change the furniture handles on the IKEA Malm bedside table? What tools are needed, what should I pay attention to, and are there any tips to ensure everything fits perfectly and looks neat?

I appreciate any help!

It’s great that you want to change the handles! 🙂 Especially with IKEA furniture, this is a very simple modification that makes a big difference!

Basically, you just need a screwdriver (Phillips head) or a cordless drill with the right bit. The handles are usually attached with two screws from the inside. Just pull the drawer out, loosen the screws, remove the old handle, put the new handle in place, and tighten the screws.

It’s important that the hole spacing of the new handle matches the old one! Otherwise, you might need to drill new holes, which is the tricky part. I’ve done this myself, and it works really well if you measure carefully.

Good luck, it will turn out great! 🙂

labar43 schrieb:
It is important that the hole spacing of the new handle matches the old one!

I can only confirm that! 🙂 There’s nothing more frustrating than realizing after screwing that the holes don’t line up.

If you want to keep it simple, first get new handles with exactly the same drilling distances or adjust your selection in the IKEA online shop. Then take your time when screwing. Don’t overtighten, or the handle will deform unattractively against the drawer wood.

Oh, and a little secret: you can completely remove the drawer for easier work. That way, you have free access from both the back and the front.

Remove the drawer, loosen the screws with a screwdriver, replace the handle, tighten the screws, insert the drawer. Done.

Regarding holes: MALM models usually have a standard drilling distance of 128 mm (5 inches) for the handles. If the new handles do not fit, make sure not to leave any visible drill holes exposed. For redrilling, it is recommended to use a fine drill bit (about 3-4 mm / 0.1-0.16 inches) and proceed carefully to avoid splintering the cabinet body.

Additionally, it is advisable to empty the drawer and place it securely before removing it and loosening the screws. Having an assistant can make the process safer, especially if you are inexperienced.

The following procedure is ideal:

1. Fully pull out the drawer, ideally remove it completely.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the inside of the handle.
3. Remove the old handle.
4. Check whether the new handle has the same hole spacing (usually 128 mm (5 inches)).
5. If it fits, fasten the new handle from the inside with the supplied screws.
6. Reinsert the drawer.

If the hole spacing differs, it is advisable to fill the old holes with wood filler before drilling new ones. Recommended tools: screwdriver, fine drill bit, small ruler or caliper.

This method minimizes damage and ensures a clean result.